National Disaster Risk Reduction and Early Warning 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 the world's largest security-oriented intergovernmental organization. The OSCE was established in 1975 and has a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in its member states. The POiB focuses on various areas including economic and environmental affairs, human rights, and conflict prevention. The office operates in Kyrgyzstan and collaborates closely with local authorities, including the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MoES). The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to inclusivity and diversity in its operations. The POiB has been involved in numerous projects aimed at enhancing disaster risk management and early warning systems in the region, particularly in response to the unique challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters.

Job Overview:
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Early Warning Expert will play a crucial role in the project titled 'Assessment of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Risks in Priority Mountain Areas of Kyrgyzstan,' which is set to run from June 2026 to December 202

• The expert will be responsible for operationalizing enhanced GLOF hazard information into actionable community-level early warning mechanisms, particularly in the Chu and Issyk-Kul regions. This position requires a deep understanding of disaster risk reduction (DRR) and early warning systems, with a focus on building national capacity in geomorphology and integrated system operation. The expert will work closely with the MoES and local communities to ensure the sustainable handover of the early warning system, thereby enhancing the resilience of communities to glacial lake outburst floods. The role combines technical expertise with community engagement, requiring the expert to coordinate training, stakeholder engagement, and the establishment of early warning mechanisms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The expert will undertake a variety of tasks including: conducting an inception meeting with the POiB and the MoES Civil Protection Department; mapping existing civil protection mechanisms in the Chu and Issyk-Kul regions; preparing a stakeholder engagement plan that includes MoES, local governments, and pilot communities; coordinating participatory validation of draft hazard maps in pilot communities; collecting local historical knowledge of past GLOF events; integrating community feedback into the outputs of the Modelling Expert and GIS Specialist; developing and delivering training modules for MoES technical staff; establishing pilot early warning mechanisms in selected communities; planning field studies at pilot lakes; overseeing field campaigns and technical supervision of equipment installation; operationalizing the early warning system; and ensuring a sustainable handover of the system to the MoES and communities. The expert will also be responsible for delivering various reports and documentation as part of the project deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in disaster risk management, civil protection, geography, environmental science, civil engineering, or a closely related discipline. A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in disaster risk reduction and/or early warning systems is required, with a preference for experience focused on hydrometeorological or mountain hazards in Central Asia. Proven experience working with national emergency management agencies, particularly familiarity with the structure and procedures of the MoES of the Kyrgyz Republic, is a strong asset. Candidates should demonstrate experience in designing and operationalizing community-based early warning systems, developing standard operating procedures (SOPs), leading community consultations, and conducting awareness campaigns and emergency drills. Knowledge of technical specifications for hydrometeorological monitoring equipment is essential, along with proven training and capacity-building experience with national authorities.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's Degree or equivalent, in a relevant field such as disaster risk management, civil protection, geography, environmental science, or civil engineering. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of disaster risk reduction and the technical aspects of early warning systems.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in the field of disaster risk reduction and early warning systems. This experience should ideally include a focus on hydrometeorological or mountain hazards, particularly within the context of Central Asia. The candidate should have a proven track record of working with national emergency management agencies and should be familiar with the operational procedures of the MoES in Kyrgyzstan. Experience in community engagement and capacity building is also essential, as the role involves significant interaction with local communities and stakeholders.

Languages:
Professional fluency in Russian and Kyrgyz, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. This language proficiency is essential for effective communication with local authorities and communities. While not mandatory, proficiency in English or other regional languages may be considered an asset, as it could facilitate broader communication and collaboration within the project.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) contract type, which is typically used for consultants. The role 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 all backgrounds to apply. The remuneration package will be based on the selected consultant's qualifications and experience, as well as the 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 the organization does not request payment at any stage of the application process.