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

Background

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.

Duties and 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.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Advanced university degree in meteorology or another field relevant to meteorological observing systems. A first university degree combined with substantial additional relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

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.

Other Requirements:

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.

Languages:

Excellent command of English. Working knowledge of another official WMO language would be an advantage.

Salary and Allowances:

PAYBAND B/C

Additional Information:

Focal point name and email for additional information: Albert Fischer, technicalauthority-for-soff@wmo.int

Duration:

15 days over a period of 4 months

Probation

Possibility of renewal subject to the availability of funds and pending satisfactory performance after an initial probationary period of one year which can be extended up to a maximum of two years.

Applications:

Applications should be made online through the WMO e-recruitment system.

Do not send your application via multiple routes. WMO no longer accepts applications via post or email. Only applicants for whom WMO has a further interest will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates may be required to sit a written test and/or an interview.

Statements:

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 is 65. Pursuant to WMO Standing Instructions, the minimum age to be eligible for consideration for vacant positions is 18, and the maximum age must enable the candidate to serve for at least the term of the contract before reaching mandatory age of separation.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

WMO does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.

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