Job Opportunity at RIMES

Available Position: Meteorologist

1. Scope of Work

The Meteorologist shall support the development of the forecaster workstation in the Risk Knowledge Applications (RKA) Department. He/she will ensure technical soundness and user-responsiveness of the design, features, and functionalities of the end-to-end integrated software applications and programs for National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs).

Major duties and responsibilities:

Requirements Analysis and Software Systems Design

1. 1. Lead the development/updating of the assessment approach, methodology, and questionnaires for the design, customization, and/or updating of software systems for meteorological, aero-meteorological, and ocean/marine forecasting;
   2. Conduct desk review and scoping of the observation, monitoring, and forecasting process of operational forecasters, meteorologists, aero-meteorologists, and oceanographers;
   3. Provide technical guidance on the design and development/customization/updating of RIMES software systems for meteorological, aero-meteorological, and ocean/marine forecasting; this includes:
      1. Integration of forecast process, models, and products in key software systems;
      2. Testing and refinement of the systems to ensure quality and responsiveness to the technical needs and requirements of target users;
      3. Documentation of users’ experiences and feedback on the software systems;
      4. Facilitating workshops, forums, and/or meetings related to data management and forecast generation in the software systems;

Modeling and Forecasting

1. 1. 1. 4. Develop and implement forecasting strategies and procedures to ensure accurate and reliable weather prediction;
         5. Ensure that forecast quality complies with established standards and protocols, and meets the needs/requirements of NMHSs;
         6. Evaluate and incorporate advanced technologies, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, into forecasting processes;
         7. Develop and implement quality assurance processes to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of forecasts;
         8. Conduct regular audits and reviews of forecasting performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective measures;

Research, Development, and Knowledge Sharing

1. 9. Foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, innovation, and continuous professional development, including staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in meteorological science, technology, and forecasting techniques;
   10. Conduct research aimed at assessing and improving the forecast process, models, methodologies, and tools;
   11. Explore opportunities for partnerships and collaborations with global/regional forecasting centers and research institutions to enhance meteorological capabilities;
   12. Provide technical guidance and support to national meteorological agencies to strengthen their forecasting capabilities, and data management systems;
   13. Design and conduct technical training and capacity-building activities for NMHSs and relevant stakeholders;
   14. Contribute to the development and dissemination of best practices, guidelines, and training materials related to weather forecasting and early warning systems;
   15. Participate in project planning or progress meetings with RIMES and/or stakeholders;
   16. Other duties as assigned by the EWS Specialist, and RIMES Director.

2. Qualifications

Education: 

• Master’s degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or any related field, and at least two (2) years of combined work experience in operational weather forecasting, modeling, and/or climate prediction.

Experience:

• At least three (3) years of national and/or international experience in meteorology, specifically in operational weather or climate prediction and statistical and/or dynamical climate models and/or developing weather and/or climate tools, products, and services
• At least two (2) years of work experience in conducting weather or climate impact assessments and developing adaptation and mitigation strategies
• Involved in at least one (1) project with the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services and/or international organizations in generating forecasts, outlooks, and/or impact advisories based on location-specific weather and climate forecast information would be an advantage
• Familiarity with the institutions/organizations as well as approaches and concepts in disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), early warning, and climate change adaptation (CCA)

Skills and Abilities:

• High understanding of climate and weather hazards particularly related to rainfall, extreme temperatures, tropical cyclones, and storms among others
• Expert in weather and climate analysis software commonly used in meteorology and/or climatology
• Proficiency in impact-based forecasting, early warning, DRRM, and CCA concepts
• Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, and planning skills
• Strong communication,  interpersonal, and writing skills
• Ability to work amicably in a multicultural and multidisciplinary work environment

Language: 

• Excellent knowledge of English (both oral and written)

Personal qualities:

• Self-motivated, flexible, and able to work effectively and independently
• Excellent work ethic and aptitude to work with a constructive attitude
• Conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines, and achieving results
• Shows persistence when faced with difficulties or challenges

3. Supervisor

Immediate Supervisor: Mr. John Mark Marcos, EWS Specialist

Technical Supervisor: Ms. Rose Ann Sale-Zuniga, Systems Development Specialist

4. Contract Type

Full-time, project-based contract

5. Contract Duration

12 months, with possible extension on above satisfactory performance; Probationary period: 4 months

6. Duty Station

Manila, Philippines with site visits in select RIMES member countries