National Consultant for Groundwater Management

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. UNESCO operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of more than 2,000 employees. The organization focuses on building peace in the minds of men and women, fostering sustainable development, and promoting cultural diversity. The Phnom Penh Office specifically addresses issues related to natural sciences, including water resource management, which is critical for the sustainable development of the region.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Groundwater Management will play a pivotal role in the UNESCO-led project aimed at enhancing the sustainability of the Transboundary Cambodia-Mekong River Delta Aquifer (CMDA). This position involves providing technical support for assessing the current state of groundwater resources, recharge and extraction dynamics, and their effects on ecosystems and livelihoods. The consultant will work closely with national experts and stakeholders to collect and analyze data, identify trends, and contribute to the development of a conceptual model that describes the hydrogeological characteristics of the Cambodian side of the CMDA. The consultant will also be responsible for preparing reports summarizing contributions to the Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis (TDA) process and ensuring effective communication and collaboration among various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the National PMU, government, and relevant stakeholders to gather primary and secondary data related to groundwater management.
• Analyze hydrogeological data, including mapping recharge and discharge areas, assessing water-table levels, and evaluating groundwater quality.
• Assess land surface subsidence and salinity distribution, identifying vulnerabilities and risks associated with seawater intrusion.
• Develop a conceptual model of the hydrogeological characteristics of the Cambodian side of the CMDA.
• Conduct a collaborative assessment of groundwater resources using advanced numerical assessment methods.
• Create detailed scenarios on groundwater flow and the impacts of climate change and exploitation.
• Prepare a comprehensive report summarizing the findings and contributions to the TDA process.
• Provide regular progress reports and participate in meetings and workshops as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a graduate degree, preferably a PhD, in hydrogeology, hydrology, water resource management, or related environmental and engineering sciences. They should have at least 5 years of relevant work experience in hydrogeology or groundwater management, particularly in the context of Cambodia. Experience working with government agencies and previous involvement in UN projects will be considered advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate proven skills in GIS-based applications and modeling tools, excellent coordination and interpersonal skills, and a good understanding of government functioning. The ability to work under pressure and in a multicultural environment is essential.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree in hydrogeology, hydrology, water resource management, or related environmental and engineering sciences is required. A PhD is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the field.

Experience:
At least 5 years of qualifying work experience in hydrogeology or groundwater management is required. This experience should include a combination of practical work and research, particularly in the context of water resource management in Cambodia. Familiarity with government processes and previous experience with UN projects will be beneficial.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Khmer is mandatory, with excellent skills in writing, speaking, and reading in both languages. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication with local stakeholders and international partners.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is for 11 months, and the consultant is expected to work full-time with a flexible working location. The position is open to Cambodian nationals only. The consultant may be required to undertake missions, and the UNESCO Phnom Penh Office will assist with the necessary arrangements. Monthly progress reports are required to ensure accountability and track the progress of the consultant's work.