DUTY STATION
Geneva, Switzerland
COMMENCEMENT OF DUTY
To be determined NATURE OF APPOINTMENT
Fixed-term - 1 year
Organizational Unit
Early Warning Services Section - Division of Meteorological and Sectoral Services - Department of Science, Services and Capacity Development WMO is committed to achieving diversity and a balanced workforce. Applications are welcome from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities. The statutory retirement age after 1 January 2014 is 65. For external applicants, only those who are expected to complete the term of appointment will normally be considered. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
ABOUT THE ROLE
LEADING GLOBAL EARLY WARNING TRANSFORMATION
The Chief will lead the Early Warning Services Section in advancing WMO's critical mission to protect lives and livelihoods through the delivery of effective early warning systems. Under the authority of the Director of Meteorological and Sectoral Services Division, the Chief will provide essential technical and strategic leadership for implementing impact-based forecasting, multi-hazard warning systems, and the global Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
a) Lead development and implementation of comprehensive multi-hazard early warning systems integrating atmospheric, hydrological, and environmental hazards;
b) Advance impact-based forecasting methodologies that translate meteorological predictions into actionable risk information for decision-makers;
c) Ensure the effective implementation of the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) to standardize warning message formats and dissemination;
d) Champion integration of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence in warning system design and operations;
e) Coordinate with national disaster management authorities and emergency response agencies to ensure effective warning uptake and response;
f) Lead WMO's contribution to the UN Early Warnings for All initiative, ensuring comprehensive coverage by 2027;
g) Facilitate international cooperation and knowledge sharing on early warning best practices;
h) Provide technical guidance and capacity building support to WMO Members for developing and enhancing national early warning systems;
i) Foster partnerships with humanitarian organizations, development agencies, and private sector entities to strengthen warning system effectiveness;
j) Ensure early warning services address the needs of vulnerable populations and promote inclusive approaches to risk communication.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Master's degree or equivalent in atmospheric sciences, disaster risk management, emergency management, or related field. A first-level university degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
Experience
A minimum of ten (10) years progressively responsible experience in early warning systems, emergency management, or disaster risk reduction.
Other requirements
MULTI-HAZARD EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS:
Deep operational knowledge of impact-based forecasting, Common Alerting Protocol (CAP). and multi-hazard warning system design and implementation.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATION:
Understanding of disaster risk reduction frameworks, emergency response protocols, and coordination with national disaster management authorities.
WARNING COMMUNICATION:
Expertise in risk communication, public warning dissemination systems, and stakeholder engagement for effective waring uptake.
SERVICE INTERGATION:
Knowledge of integrating atmospheric, hydrological, and environmental hazard warnings into comprehensive early warning services. Demonstrates experience with multi-hazard warning systems and stakeholder coordination.
YOUR PROFILE
Dynamic leader with deep expertise in early warning system and proven ability to coordinate emergency management activities across multiple stakeholders, serving WMO's 193 Member States through life-saving warning services.
COMPETENCIES
The Chief, Early Warning Services Section must demonstrate managerial-level proficiency in the following competencies:
- Communication and Influence
- Collaboration and Team Dynamics
- Inclusive Mindset and Cultural Awareness
- Decision Making and Problem Solving
- Integrity and Accountability
- Innovation and Digital Agility
- Stakeholder Understanding and Engagement
Languages
Excellent knowledge of English (both oral and written). Knowledge of other official languages of the Organization would be an advantage.
(Note: The official languages of the Organization are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.) The position is funded from the regular budget.
New appointments on fixed-term contract of one year or more shall be subject to an initial one-year probation period. SALARY AND ALLOWANCES
Annual net base salary on initial appointment is: US$ 101540
Annual post adjustment on initial salary is: US$ 90066 (in addition to the net base salary) Additional Information:
Applications should be made online through the WMO e-recruitment system at https://erecruit.wmo.int/public.
Do not send your application via multiple routes. Only applicants in whom WMO has a further interest will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates may be required to sit a written test and/or an interview. Date of issue of vacancy notice: 22 August 2025