VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

IUCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature, helps the world find pragmatic solutions to our most pressing environment and development challenges.

Water is the most important natural commodity and is vital for natural systems and human development particularly, for the economies that totally rely on natural resources. It is one of our most critical resources, but it is believed to be under threat around the World, where about 80% of the World's population (5.6 billion in 2011) lives in areas with threats to water security. Studies show that, while the World's population has tripled in the 20th century, the use of renewable water resources has grown six-fold. Within the next fifty years, the World’s population will increase by another 40 to 50%, which will result in an increasing demand for water and will have serious consequences on nature and human development.

Pakistan is one of the most arid countries, with an average rainfall of under 240 mm a year. The balance between population and available water already makes Pakistan one of the most water-stressed countries in the World, with rapid population growth it will soon enter a condition of absolute water scarcity. In Pakistan, the population and the economy are heavily dependent on an annual influx into the Indus river system and research conducted by the Global Change Impact Studies Centre (GCISC) predicted that the Western Himalayan glaciers will retreat for the next 50 years, which may later result in decrease of flows by up to 30% to 40% over the subsequent 50 years. This would have serious implications for Pakistan’s economy, environment and society.

IUCN is searching for a self-motivated professional who possess a proven track record of meeting challenges through a proactive approach.

Programme Assistant, Water Programme – IUCN Pakistan

Under the overall guidance and direct supervision of Senior Water Expert - IUCN Pakistan, the incumbent will be responsible to provide support for implementation of IUCN-Oxfam Novib Water Programme.

Qualifications and Skills required:
1. M.Sc. degree in Agricultural Engineering or Irrigation Engineering or Water Resources Engineering.
2. Professional experience 1 year or more of working in water or irrigation projects.
3. Inter-personnel and communication/report writing skills is essential.
4. Proficiency in all MS Office applications and in particular Outlook, Word and Excel and any other related computer software.
5. Excellent communication skills both in English and Urdu.

DUTY STATION: IUCN Pakistan Islamabad Programme Office.

DURATION: 1 year from the date of appointment (extendable).

Applicants are requested to apply online through the Human Resource Management System by visiting http://www.iucn.org/involved/jobs/ by clicking the position title applying for and pressing the "Apply" button. Applicants will be asked to create an account and submit their profile information. The vacancy closes at midnight on 8th May, 2013. No applications will be accepted after the closing date.

IUCN is an equal opportunity employer. Only the short listed candidates will be contacted.