CONSULTANCY: Technical Authority GBON Specialist - SSA-2026-WIGOS-NET-ESDP-16

Organizational Context

WMO acts as the Technical Authority to the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF), which supports eligible countries in closing priority gaps in the Global Basic Observing Network (GBON). WMO’s formal role includes providing technical support on GBON regulations, screening key Readiness-phase products and independently verifying compliance. A particular immediate need is to maintain timely, consistent and technically robust review of GBON National Gap Analyses and National Contribution Plans prepared by SOFF peer advisors. These reviews must assess whether proposed observing-system solutions can deliver GBON requirements and whether plans adequately address network design, operations and maintenance, measurement quality and traceability, data exchange through WIS, institutional capacity and sustainability. The Technical Authority must also coordinate input from WMO technical specialists and provide clear, consolidated feedback to peer advisors and the SOFF Secretariat. The purpose of this assignment is to provide temporary professional support to the WMO Technical Authority team.

Job Purpose

To provide temporary professional support to the WMO Technical Authority team, assisting in the review and provision of consolidated technical comments on SOFF Readiness phase products, coordinating iterative review processes, and acting as a point of contact for the Technical Authority.

Responsibilities

1. Assist in the review and provision of consolidated technical comments on SOFF Readiness phase products - GBON National Gap Analyses and National Contribution Plans - assessing consistency with GBON and relevant WMO requirements, whether proposed plans adequately address observing-network design, station selection, operations and maintenance, measurement quality and traceability, metadata, human capacity, recurrent costs and long term sustainability. 2. Coordinate iterative review processes with peer advisors, consolidate inputs from relevant WMO sections and experts, track revisions, and help ensure that final products respond to material technical comments. 3. Act as front-line single point of contact for the Technical Authority, triaging and directing requests under the direction of supervisors. Mains Deliverables: 1. 1 September 2026: Brief bimonthly progress report 2. 31 October 2026: Final summary report of activities with log of readiness products reviewed and recommendations for follow up including lessons learned.

Work Experience

At least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in meteorological observing systems, WIGOS implementation, network planning, technical assistance, development projects or a related field. Demonstrated experience reviewing technical reports, plans or project documents and providing clear written recommendations is required. Experience working with National Meteorological and Hydrological Services, particularly in developing countries or small island developing States, is highly desirable.

Skills

Good knowledge of WMO technical regulations and guidance relevant to WIGOS and GBON. Ability to synthesize inputs from multiple technical experts and manage several country assignments simultaneously; and ability to work independently with geographically dispersed teams. Familiarity with SOFF, GBON National Gap Analyses, National Contribution Plans, OSCAR/Surface, WDQMS, WIS 2.0, procurement or hydrometeorological development projects would be a strong advantage.

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