Early Warning Systems Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. WFP has been operational in Cambodia for over four decades, working under the Country Strategic Plan (CSP) 2024-28, which aims to support the government’s efforts to achieve zero hunger. WFP is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Job Overview:
The Early Warning Systems Specialist will play a crucial role in providing strategic and technical leadership for WFP Cambodia's engagement with the Ministry of Water, River Works and Meteorology (MoWRAM) as part of WFP’s integrated risk management portfolio. This position is vital for enhancing Cambodia's capacity to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to sudden-onset disasters, particularly in the context of climate change and its impact on security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. The specialist will serve as the principal technical focal point for hydrometeorological services, climate information systems, and early warning systems, ensuring that WFP's initiatives align with national priorities and strategic objectives. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, UN organizations, and development partners, to strengthen observation networks and improve forecasting capabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Early Warning Systems Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks, including serving as WFP Cambodia's technical lead on hydrometeorology and climate services, leading technical engagement with MoWRAM, providing oversight for assessments and modernization of hydrometeorological observation networks, and supporting the development of operational and maintenance systems for these infrastructures. The specialist will also improve forecasting services, integrate hydrometeorological data into decision-support platforms, develop user-centered climate services, and coordinate technical collaboration with national and international organizations. Additionally, the role includes generating technical evidence and knowledge products, strengthening internal technical capacity within WFP, and preparing high-quality reports and presentations to communicate program results and strategic priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Meteorology, Hydrology, Atmospheric Sciences, Water Resources Engineering, Instrumentation Control/Civil Engineering, or a closely related field. A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible professional experience in meteorology, hydrology, instrumentation engineering, or climate services is required. Demonstrated experience working with National Meteorological and Hydrological Services or equivalent agencies is essential, along with proven experience in the design, procurement, installation, and maintenance of hydro-meteorological instruments. Experience in developing forecasting systems and providing technical advisory work in developing countries is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Meteorology, Hydrology, Atmospheric Sciences, Water Resources Engineering, or Instrumentation Control/Civil Engineering. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate and hydrological systems and for effectively contributing to the development of early warning systems.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible professional experience in fields related to meteorology, hydrology, or climate services. This experience should include working with government agencies responsible for weather and climate information services, as well as experience in the design and maintenance of hydrometeorological observation systems. Experience in program design, proposal development, and donor engagement is also beneficial, particularly in the context of climate resilience and disaster preparedness initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the projects.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered as an International Consultant under a Regular Contract for a duration of 11 months. It is important to note that this vacancy announcement is open to non-Cambodian nationals only. WFP offers an attractive compensation package and emphasizes a highly inclusive and diverse working environment. The organization is committed to supporting individuals with disabilities and provides reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process.