Expert in Vulnerability Assessment and Dam Evaluation

OVERVIEW

Parent Sector : Natural Sciences Sector (SC)

Duty Station: Rabat

Job Family: Natural Sciences

Type of contract : Non Staff

Duration of contract : From 1 to 6 months

Recruitment open to : External candidates

Application Deadline (Midnight Duty Station Time) : 15-AUG-2025

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

I. OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST

In Libya, dams play a vital role in water management, including the collection of surface water and protection against flood risks. The country has constructed 18 dams across its territory, with a total storage capacity exceeding 350 million cubic meters. These major infrastructures support agricultural projects, bottled water production, and aim to supply drinking water to major Libyan cities.

In September 2023, Storm Daniel unleashed heavy rainfall along Libya’s northeastern coast, resulting in the collapse of two dams upstream of the port city of Derna—namely, the Derna and Abu Mansour dams. The resulting floods partially destroyed the city of Derna and devastated its infrastructure.

In response to the disaster, the French Republic provided funding to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as part of urgent assistance under UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme in Libya. The project focuses on flood-prone areas and supports the development of a national risk reduction strategy, early warning systems, and institutional capacity building related to dam safety.

Libya identified four major dams for vulnerability assessment and evaluation being essential components of dam safety management. These processes help to identify structural, functional, and environmental risks that may compromise integrity of dams or lead to their collapse.

The main objectives of the dam vulnerability assessment and evaluation are to evaluate the structural and operational integrity of the four selected dams; assess their vulnerability to floods, other natural hazards, and operational risks; identify potential failure modes and the associated consequences; recommend appropriate remedial actions or risk mitigation measures; as well as strengthen emergency preparedness and improve resilience planning.

II. Duties & Responsibilities

II. Duties & Responsibilities

As part of the project 'Technical Support to Libya in the Monitoring and Maintenance of Dams,' the UNESCO Regional Office for the Maghreb will initiate the vulnerability assessment and evaluation of four dams in Libya: Gattara, Majanine, Ghan, and Kaam.

Within the framework of the Natural Sciences Sector of the UNESCO Regional Office for the Maghreb, under the authority of Director of Office, and the direct supervision of the Chief of the Natural Sciences Sector, the consultant will undertake the following tasks:

The vulnerability assessment and dam evaluations must be conducted in accordance with international dam safety guidelines, such as those established by ICOLD and the World Bank.

III. Deliverables

III. Deliverables

IV. COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial) Accountability (C)Communication (C)Innovation (C)Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C)Planning and organizing (C)Results focus (C)Teamwork (C)Professionalism (C)

- For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.

V. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

A first structural/civil engineering degree is required with post graduate degrees (MSc. and/or PhD) in hydrology/hydraulic, dam safety, including inspection, monitoring, and maintenance of dams.

Work Experience

Minimum of 7 to 10 years of professional experience in dam design, construction, and maintenance, and technical training on dam safety and maintenance.

Languages

Knowledge of English knowledge is required. Knowledge of Arabic language is a plus.

VI. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

VII. SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. Candidates must upload their CV, methodology of work, and detailed financial offer and timeline. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and assessment of the merhodology of work, timeline and financial offer. UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted.

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