National Hydrological Modelling Expert (SSA Roster Call)

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) is part of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which is an intergovernmental organization founded in 197

• The OSCE is dedicated to promoting peace, stability, and democracy in its member states. The POiB focuses on various issues including economic and environmental affairs, human rights, and security. The office operates with a mission to enhance cooperation among member states and to address regional challenges, particularly in Central Asia. The POiB collaborates with local governments, civil society, and international partners to implement projects that align with its objectives. The organization employs a diverse team of professionals and operates in multiple countries, emphasizing inclusivity and respect for cultural differences.

Job Overview:
The National Hydrological Modelling Expert will play a crucial role in the project titled 'Assessment of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Risks in Priority Mountain Areas of Kyrgyzstan.' This project aims to enhance the existing monitoring system of the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MoES) by integrating advanced hydrodynamic models to simulate glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) scenarios. The expert will be responsible for designing, calibrating, and operationalizing hydrodynamic models for 5 to 10 priority lakes, producing inundation hazard datasets, and building national capacity to interpret and update hazard maps. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including the MoES and climate scientists, to ensure the successful implementation of the project phases, which include technical enhancements, aerial surveys, hazard mapping, and community early warning systems. The expert will also be tasked with delivering training to MoES staff and preparing comprehensive technical reports.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Hydrological Modelling Expert include:

• Conducting an inception meeting with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, the Hydrometeorological Forecasting Department (HMFD) of MoES, and climate scientists to outline project objectives and expectations.
• Reviewing the MoES monitoring system interface and identifying integration options for the new hydrological simulation tools.
• Preparing a detailed modelling work plan that outlines the steps for developing hydrodynamic models.
• Compiling digital elevation models and historical flood records necessary for model development.
• Developing a hydrological scenario simulation tool that incorporates downscaled climate inputs.
• Integrating the simulation tool into the MoES monitoring system interface or providing scripts for implementation.
• Constructing HEC-RAS 2D hydrodynamic models for selected lakes and simulating various breach scenarios.
• Generating flood extent, depth, velocity, and arrival-time rasters based on model outputs.
• Collaborating with GIS specialists to produce inundation hazard maps. 1
• Refining inundation scenarios using aerial survey data and geomorphological indicators. 1
• Preparing a technical report on inundation hazard mapping and delivering training modules to MoES staff. 1
• Supporting survey planning for bathymetric profiling and preparing protocols for model updates. 1
• Updating hydrodynamic models with new data and revalidating inundation maps. 1
• Integrating revised thresholds into early-warning standard operating procedures (SOPs) and preparing final technical reports for handover to MoES.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications:

• An advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in hydrology, hydraulic engineering, water resources engineering, civil engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in hydrodynamic or 2D flood modelling, with demonstrated proficiency in tools such as HEC-RAS 2D, FLO-2D, RAMMS, or r.avaflow.
• Proven experience in modelling debris flows, dam-break, or GLOF events, particularly in mountain catchments similar to those in Central Asia.
• Experience in integrating climate and hydrological scenarios into hydrodynamic frameworks.
• Working knowledge of GIS platforms such as QGIS, ArcGIS, or SAGA GIS, along with skills in digital terrain analysis.
• Proven experience in training and capacity building, particularly with national institutions.
• Fluency in Russian and a good working knowledge of English; knowledge of Kyrgyz is considered an asset.
• Familiarity with OSCE or similar international organization procedures is advantageous.
• Previous experience in research, data collection, and analysis is beneficial. 1
• Demonstrated gender awareness and sensitivity, with the ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities. 1
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a diverse team environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or higher, in fields related to hydrology, hydraulic engineering, water resources engineering, civil engineering, or other closely related disciplines. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and technical skills required for the complex tasks associated with hydrodynamic modelling and flood risk assessment.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the field of hydrodynamic modelling, specifically with a focus on 2D flood modelling. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with relevant modelling tools such as HEC-RAS 2D, FLO-2D, RAMMS, or r.avaflow. Experience in modelling specific events such as debris flows, dam-breaks, or glacial lake outburst floods in mountainous regions is crucial. Additionally, candidates should have experience in integrating climate and hydrological scenarios into hydrodynamic frameworks, which is essential for the successful execution of the project.

Languages:
Fluency in Russian is mandatory for this position, as the technical documentation and communication will primarily be conducted in this language. A good working knowledge of English is also required to facilitate collaboration with international partners and stakeholders. Knowledge of Kyrgyz is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) contract type, which is typically used for consultancy roles. The job is classified as a consultant position with no specific grade assigned. The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply. The remuneration package will be based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, as well as the specific tasks and deliverables associated with the position. The OSCE emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct and professionalism among its officials, and candidates should be aware that no payment is requested at any stage of the application process.