Climate and El Nino Expert

The Climate and El Nino Expert will provide technical expertise on climate variability and the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), focusing on assessing the potential implications of the forecasted 2026 El Niño event for drought conditions in the Central Highlands of Viet Nam. The role involves conducting a rapid drought assessment, integrating climate forecasting and drought risk analysis to support national and provincial authorities in drought preparedness and climate adaptation.

Responsibilities

• Review available global, regional and national seasonal climate outlooks, forecasts and reports related to ENSO and the anticipated 2026 El Niño event
• Review historical climate patterns and drought events in the Central Highlands, with particular attention to the relationship between El Niño and drought occurrence
• Assess the expected evolution of the forecasted El Niño event and its potential implications for drought conditions in Vietnam, particularly Central Highlands
• Assess the potential intensification of drought conditions associated with the forecasted El Niño event and identify the provinces and sectors likely to face elevated risks
• Collaborate with the other team members to integrate climate information into the overall drought assessment
• Contribute to the identification of technical gaps in drought management
• Review international experiences and good practices in climate-informed drought preparedness and anticipatory action
• Participate and provide technical inputs in the consultation meetings and validation workshop with various stakeholders
• Contribute to the preparation of the final assessment report and recommendations

Requirements

• Advanced university degree (MSc or PhD) in Meteorology, Climatology, Climate Science, Hydrometeorology, Environmental science, or a closely related discipline
• At least 10 years of relevant experience in climate analysis, climate forecasting, drought assessment, or climate change adaptation
• Working knowledge of English and Vietnamese
• National of Viet Nam or resident of the country with valid work permit
• Demonstrated expertise in climate analysis, seasonal forecasting and drought assessment
• Strong understanding of ENSO dynamics and their impacts on climate variability in Vietnam, with a focus on Central Highlands
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing drought forecasting and early warning systems is an advantage
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills
• Experience working with multidisciplinary technical teams
• Previous experience with national hydro-meteorological agencies or international organizations is an advantage
• Ability to deliver high-quality technical outputs within tight timelines
• Relevant experience in working in multidisciplinary and multicultural teams, particularly in multilateral organizations
• Experience working with government agencies at all levels, research institutions, development partners, and relevant technical stakeholders in Viet Nam
• Previous experience working with FAO, other UN agencies, development partners, or international organizations is an advantage
• Demonstrated experience in analysing ENSO and seasonal climate forecasts
• Familiarity with climate conditions and drought issues in Viet Nam, preferably in the Central Highlands
• Adherence to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency

Skills

• Climate Analysis
• Seasonal Forecasting
• Drought Assessment
• Climate Change Adaptation
• ENSO Dynamics
• Drought Forecasting Systems
• Early Warning Systems
• Report Writing
• Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration
• Hydro-meteorological Collaboration
• Climate Risk Analysis
• Climate Science
• Meteorology
• Climatology
• Applied Hydrometeorology
• Environmental Sciences

Languages

English, Vietnamese