National Water Resources Management Specialist

Organizational Context

FAO Mongolia aims to be a leading partner in food and nutrition security, supporting the nation in tackling agricultural challenges like low productivity, land degradation, climate change, and rural livelihood vulnerabilities. The organization promotes sustainable water management for food security and resilient agrifood systems. Recognizing the critical role of groundwater in Mongolia's arid and semi-arid regions, and the need to strengthen monitoring and data management for informed decision-making, FAO is implementing a Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) to enhance groundwater assessment and sustainable water management.

Job Purpose

The National Water Resources Management Specialist will provide essential project management and technical expertise for the TCP "Strengthening Groundwater Assessment and Sustainable Water Management for Food Security in Mongolia." This role involves supporting groundwater assessment, monitoring, hydrogeological analysis, water resources management, and GIS-based information systems within the agriculture and land-use sector. The specialist will collaborate closely with government counterparts, stakeholders, and the FAO RAP Land and Water Office to develop technical assessments, groundwater information systems, and recommendations for sustainable water management practices in Mongolia, ensuring effective day-to-day project operations.

Responsibilities

Develop high-quality concept notes and proposals for donor submission in thematic areas such as water, livelihoods, and climate resilience within the agriculture and land-use sector. Provide regular updates on work plans and activity schedules in consultation with FAO and stakeholders. Engage with stakeholders, establish field demonstrations, and conduct awareness campaigns according to FAO procedures. Identify priorities for concept note and proposal development, cooperating closely with government organizations. Provide technical support for project implementation, particularly in water sector projects, including groundwater assessment activities, data collection, analysis, and reporting. Compile, review, and analyze hydrogeological, hydrological, and water resources information. Contribute to groundwater resource assessments, aquifer characterization, and recharge analysis. Support groundwater vulnerability and water security assessments, preparing technical reports and maps. Assist in planning and implementing groundwater monitoring activities, including field verification and data quality control. Develop and update groundwater databases, GIS products, and information management tools. Prepare technical recommendations for groundwater management, water security, and sustainable agricultural water use. Support stakeholder consultations, technical meetings, and workshops. Assist in preparing training materials and delivering capacity development activities. Coordinate with FAO RAP Land and Water Office, government counterparts, and project partners for timely implementation and delivery of technical outputs. Support the preparation of technical inputs and recommendations for future groundwater and water management investments and resource mobilization opportunities.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience is required, specifically in project implementation, Groundwater and Water Management, agricultural development, biodiversity conservation, or closely related fields. Experience in the application of GIS and spatial data management for water resources is highly desirable. Experience within the UN system is considered an asset.

Skills

Demonstrated experience in applying GIS and spatial data management for water resources, groundwater assessment, environmental management, natural resources management, or agriculture. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Strong command of written and spoken English and Mongolian. Excellent planning, organizing, and attention to detail. Ability to work effectively within a multinational team. Strong writing, composition, editing, and reporting skills in both English and Mongolian. Technical knowledge of land management theories and practices. Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships at all levels. Proactive approach to enhancing project visibility. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and self-organization skills.

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