Consultant for Water Quality Data Management Software Development

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Consultant for Water Quality Data Management Software Development
Location: home-based
Country: remote
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Early Warning and Assessment Division (EWAD) is responsible for analyzing the state of the global environment and providing early warning information, assessing global and regional environmental trends to catalyze international cooperation and action on environmental issues. The GEMS/Water Programme within UNEP supports UN Member States in developing their water quality monitoring and assessment capacities, aiming to improve the knowledge of status and trends of freshwater resources worldwide. UNEP operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to environmental sustainability and policy advocacy.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for developing a water quality data management software and pilot testing it at selected partner organizations. This role involves gathering user requirements, reviewing existing software, collaborating with technical working groups, and ensuring the software meets the needs of GEMS/Water partner agencies. The consultant will also design and develop a user-centric software system, pilot-test it, and prepare comprehensive documentation for end-users. The position requires a strong understanding of data management systems, water quality monitoring, and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders effectively. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Coordinator of the GEMS/Water Programme and will contribute to the project 'ActBlue - Global support for intersectoral implementation of SDG6 in the Water-Climate-Ecosystem Nexus.'

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will perform a variety of tasks including: developing a comprehensive work plan and timeline for deliverables; gathering and documenting user requirements from selected GEMS/Water partner agencies; conducting an extensive review and testing of existing open-source/free software; collaborating with technical working groups at UNEP, WMO, and relevant stakeholders; designing and developing a user-centric water quality data management software system; pilot-testing the developed software at partner organizations; preparing comprehensive documentation for end-users; and compiling a detailed project report summarizing outcomes, challenges, and recommendations for future development of water quality data management systems.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a bachelor's degree in informatics or environmental sciences with experience in hydroinformatics. An advanced degree (Master’s or equivalent) in the same areas is desirable. Additionally, at least five years of experience in the development of data management systems is required, along with in-depth knowledge of relational database management systems, REST web services, and web frontend technologies (HTML, CSS, Javascript). Knowledge of data processing, analysis, and visualization, particularly in relation to water data exchange standards, is essential. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also required, along with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. Prior experience in delivering technical training is desirable.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in informatics or environmental sciences is required, with a focus on hydroinformatics. An advanced degree (Master’s or equivalent) in the same areas is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The consultant must have at least five years of experience in developing data management systems, demonstrating a strong understanding of relational database management systems, REST web services, and web frontend technologies. This level of experience is crucial for ensuring the successful development and implementation of the water quality data management software.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required for this consultancy, as English is one of the two working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Fluency in French is also required, while fluency in Spanish is considered desirable, providing an advantage in engaging with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for 12 months. There are no additional notes regarding contract duration, seniority level, or compensation mentioned in the job description. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to provide any financial information or bank account details.