INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT: WATER COOPERATION AND GROUNDWATER

Organizational Context

The UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok, in cooperation with the Division of Water Sciences, seeks a senior water expert with hydrogeological experience. This is in line with the UNESCO Programme and Budget 2026-2027 and IHP-IX, focusing on strengthening Member States' capacity for inclusive water resources management in a changing environment and advancing science for a water-secure world.

Job Purpose

The consultant will provide essential technical support to a series of projects and activities managed by the UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok and the Division of Water Sciences. This role is crucial for operationalizing and implementing UNESCO's components within key initiatives, such as the GEF/FAO project on transboundary aquifer management and the GEF/UNEP MedProgramme. The objective is to enhance knowledge generation, build capacity for inclusive water resources management, and contribute to a water-secure world, particularly in the context of changing environmental conditions and the specific needs of coastal aquifers.

Responsibilities

The consultant will provide technical expertise for the GEF/FAO project "Enhancing Sustainability of the Transboundary Cambodia-Mekong River Delta Aquifer (CMDA)", including guidance on TDA preparation, consolidation of reports, and development of concept notes for coordination meetings. They will also prepare project proposals for resource mobilization and a concept note for a regional training course on groundwater management. Support will be provided for event preparation in 2026, focusing on coastal aquifers, and for project operationalization, including reviewing workshop outcomes and developing work plans. Additionally, the consultant will support the GEF/UNEP MedProgramme by preparing project results for dissemination, including executive summaries of technical publications and an updated communication and outreach plan for coastal aquifer components.

Work Experience

A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in Water Sciences, with a focus on aquifer assessment, management, and governance, including transboundary and conjunctive water management. Experience with GEF projects, groundwater issues, and geographical focus on the Mekong and Mediterranean regions is essential. Prior experience within the UN system and providing technical assistance to national stakeholders is also required.

Skills

Proven ability in effective planning, organization, and managing multiple deadlines. Demonstrated capacity to work efficiently in dynamic, multicultural team environments. Excellent coordination and interpersonal skills are necessary. Advanced computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite and communication tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom, is required.

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