Disaster Risk Reduction Consultant

Strengthen early warning systems to mitigate disaster impacts.

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UNESCAP - Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific

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Application deadline 6 months ago: Friday 19 Dec 2025 at 04:59 UTC

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Overview

Strengthen early warning systems to mitigate disaster impacts.

You have:

  • Bachelor of Technology, Computer Science Engineering
  • Knowledge and experience in big data analysis
  • Technical knowledge and experience in spatial data analysis
  • Experience in producing maps in compliance with United Nations GIS standard
  • Strong command over English for successful implementation of work

Contract

This is a Consultancy contract. More about Consultancy contracts.

Result of Service

Targeted countries strengthened early warning systems to prevent and mitigate losses from disasters.

Work Location

Bangkok

Expected duration

6+1 Months

Duties and Responsibilities

Early warning systems (EWS) are one of the most effective ways to reduce mortality from natural disasters with the potential to reduce the economic cost of disasters by up to 60 per cent. However, one-third of the global population is still not covered by early warning systems with much less coverage in countries in special situations, and vulnerable people are disproportionately affected, posing challenges to ‘leaving no one behind.’ Additionally, significant gaps exist in the four pillars of EWS namely, Pillar 1: Risk Knowledge, Pillar 2: Monitoring and warning services, Pillar 3: dissemination and communication, and Pillar 4: Response Capability. In its Resolution 79/1, the Commission commits to develop policies and take actions to combat climate change and its impacts, develop early warning systems for all at the regional level, and to support regional and subregional priorities to address climate-related challenges, aligning with the Secretary General’s Executive Action Plan on Early Warmings for All 2023-2027. The project aims to deliver the following elements of the above indicated mandates: Build capacity of high-risk, low-capacity countries and vulnerable regions at addressing the gaps in pillar 1 and 2, mainly through the strengthened capacity to conduct impact-based forecasting. Responsibilities: Under the direct supervision of Economic Affairs Officer, Disaster Risk Reduction Section and guidance of Chief, Disaster Risk Reduction Section, the Consultant will lead the development of the QGIS Plug-in for Impact Based Forecasting.

Qualifications/special skills

Bachelor of Technology, Computer Science Engineering. Have knowledge and experience in big data analysis, custom software, excellent analytical and organizational skills. Have technical knowledge and experience in spatial data analysis. Experience in producing maps in compliance with United Nations GIS standard.

Languages

Strong command over English for successful implementation of work.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.

Potential interview questions

Can you provide an example of a project where you successfully developed an impact-based forecasting system? This question assesses your practical experience and problem-solving skills in this specific area. Describe a relevant project, focusing on your contributions and the outcomes.
How do you approach big data analysis to inform disaster risk reduction strategies? This question evaluates your analytical skills and understanding of data's role in decision-making. Pro members can see the explanation.
Describe a time you had to produce maps under strict guidelines. How did you ensure compliance with standards? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What challenges have you faced in implementing early warning systems and how did you overcome them? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
How would you build capacity in low-risk countries regarding early warning systems? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Can you explain your experience with spatial data analysis and its relevance to climate change? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
How do you ensure effective communication of risk to vulnerable populations during disaster events? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What software and tools are you proficient in regarding GIS and spatial data management? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Added 6 months ago - Updated 6 months ago - Source: careers.un.org