Consultant UNESCO seismic code database

Overview Parent Sector: Natural Sciences Sector (SC) Duty Station: Paris Type of contract: Individual Consultant Contract Duration of contract: 7 to 11 months Recruitment open to: External candidates Application Deadline: 10-Nov-2025 UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism UNESCO through its role as Secretariat of the International Platform for Reducing Earthquake Disaster (IPRED) works with a network of national centers of excellence across 11 earthquake-prone countries to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices on earthquake risk reduction. Seismic building codes are fundamental instruments for reducing disaster risk in the built environment. They provide architects, planners and construction professionals with technical criteria to design and build structures that can better withstand seismic forces thereby preventing collapse, minimizing damage and safeguarding human life. Beyond structural safety these codes guide decisions on materials, construction techniques and urban layouts, making them essential tools for shaping resilient and sustainable cities. However seismic codes vary widely across countries in terms of scope, assumptions about seismic forces and alignment with local construction practices. Many countries in Sub‑Saharan Africa face challenges such as outdated or absent codes, limited enforcement capacity and insufficient integration of architectural and engineering considerations. Collecting and analysing information on the status, content and application of seismic codes in the region is therefore a crucial step toward strengthening national and local capacities. For UNESCO and IPRED such a comparative review not only supports disaster prevention but also informs post‑disaster recovery, helping societies to build back better. Ultimately improving knowledge and application of seismic codes contributes directly to the sustainable development of cities and countries, ensuring that the expansion of the built environment is safe, resilient and aligned with global frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Sustainable Development Goals. Objective In this context UNESCO is seeking an experienced individual consultant to support the activities in the following areas: Collect seismic codes in Sub‑Saharan Africa and develop a database. Draft the database for publication on the UNESCO website. Key Activities Review UNESCO’s existing seismic code database and identify gaps. Draft an inception report with a work‑plan timeline and stakeholder mapping. Collect and compile seismic codes from Sub‑Saharan African countries (approximately two per month). Clean, standardise and integrate the collected data into the UNESCO seismic database. Prepare the database and metadata for online publication ensuring clarity and accessibility. Liaise with relevant UNESCO field offices and IPRED partners to validate entries and gather feedback. Provide monthly progress reports and flag challenges or additional support needs. Deliverables D1: Inception report with work plan, timeline and stakeholder mapping. D2–D7: Monthly submissions of two country seismic codes (cleaned and integrated) with short progress notes. D8: Finalised and quality‑checked seismic code database ready for publication on UNESCO’s website plus a brief lessons‑learned note. Competencies (Core / Managerial) Accountability Communication Innovation Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement Planning and organising Results focus Teamwork Professionalism Required Qualifications Education Advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in architecture, civil engineering, seismic engineering, disaster risk reduction or urban planning. Work Experience Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience in disaster risk management, architecture, seismic engineering and/or urban planning. Skills and competencies Understanding of urban development and built environment in seismic contexts. Proven ability to collect, clean and organise technical data for databases. Strong drafting, analytical and coordination skills. Familiarity with UN or UNESCO technical cooperation procedures. Languages Fluency in English and French required. Desirable Qualifications Education Prior work with UN agencies or international organisations in a technical advisory or consultative capacity. Good knowledge of Portuguese is an asset. Living in Paris is an asset. How to Apply Interested candidates should click on "Apply Now" and download the Employment History form (Word document). Complete the form and, at the end, insert the required documents in a single combined file: Curriculum Vitae (CV): Up to 2 pages. Statement indicating how qualifications and experience make them suitable for the assignment. Technical proposal: Short approach and methodology (max 3 pages) identifying the specific components of the TOR and how the intended objectives/deliverables will be addressed, detailing progress and timeline. Financial proposal in US dollars or euros with a budget breakdown. Apply through the SuccessFactors case. If you cannot attach the required documents in the system, send an email quoting the reference (23086) in the subject line. Selection and Recruitment Process All candidates must complete an online application and provide complete and accurate information. The evaluation will be based on the criteria in the vacancy notice and may include tests, assessments or an interview. UNESCO may use video or teleconference, e‑mail correspondence, etc., for assessment and evaluation. Selected candidates will be further contacted; final selection will include reference checks based on the information provided. Legal / EEO Statement UNESCO applies a zero‑tolerance policy against all forms of harassment and is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, gender parity and workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non‑ and under‑represented Member States are particularly welcome. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts. UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. UNESCO is a non‑smoking organisation. #J-18808-Ljbffr