Royal HaskoningDHV together with Deltares have been contracted by the Ghanaian Government (the Client) to prepare a Flood Early Warning System (FEWS) for the Greater Accra Region. The FEWS comprises, amongst others, 13 hydraulic models (one for each watershed), to simulate the potential flooding caused by different rainfall events.
The FEWS is set up, using the FEWS software as developed by Deltares. The hydraulic models are prepared using HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS.
A first version of the FEWS has been made operational in Ghana and will be improved the coming months, with the intention to have FEWS version 2.0 running by the end of March 2025. From there onward the Client will take over the operation, maintenance and further development of the FEWS.
What you do as graduate intern
We are looking for a motivated student with an interest in flood early warning systems, hydraulic engineering and numerical modelling. The expected starting date will ideally be first of February 2025. This would give the student one month to fully understand the FEWS system, version 1.0, and work together with the experts of the Deltares on the establishment of version 2.0. The main focus of the student will be on the operation and improvement of the Hydraulic Models. After handing over version 2.0 to the Client the student will focus on the improvement of one or more selected hydraulic models. From here onward the student will be working in close collaboration with the Client, being, amongst others, the experts from the Hydrological Services Agency.
The student will work on or support the following activities:
- Setting up and maintaining a database of structure and channel information to be used in the further detailing of hydrological and hydraulic models (HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS).
- Collect and verify structure and channel information, from files and knowledge obtained from the various organisations that are responsible for the structures and channels.
- Conduct checks and measurements in the field, with priority for larger structures and more important channel reaches.
- Conduct field checks of model results – calculated flood extents, verify ‘alert locations’ with the local communities
- Support the model experts from the Client in updating and further detailing of the HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS models.
What you bring as an intern
We are seeking a motivated MSc student currently studying in the Netherlands with a technical background in fields such as Hydraulic Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or similar disciplines. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:
- Interest in Numerical Modelling: Experience with HEC-RAS and/or Deltares FEWS is advantageous.
- Experience in Python Scripting
- Excellent Communication Skills: Strong command of spoken and written English.
- Open Mindset: Willingness to work in a multi-cultural setting is essential.
- Passion for Learning and Sharing: Eager to learn new concepts and share knowledge through training sessions and workshops.
- Self-Starter and Motivated: Ability to work independently and stay motivated.
- Resilience and Problem-Solving: Enjoys tackling challenges and remains calm when things do not work out initially.
- Team Player: Prefers working in an office environment and enjoys being part of a team.
- Social Engagement: Interested in participating in social activities outside of work.
- Experience in Africa: Previous travel or work experience in Africa is desirable.
What we offer you
- A monthly remuneration of 550 euros
- Accommodation in Accra
- All costs related to travelling will be paid (tickets, visa, insurance, vaccinations)
- Duration will be 3 to 4 months
- Starting date: as soon as possible (preferably 1 February)
Where you will work
Royal HaskoningDHV is a worldwide independent engineering, project management and consultancy firm which integrates 140 years of engineering expertise with digital technologies and software solutions. Our 6,000 colleagues are working from offices in more than 25 countries across the world. Through our mission Enhancing Society Together, we take responsibility for having a positive impact on the world.
You will become part of the Advisory Group Water Management International. This team consists of around 50 colleagues and is based in the Netherlands across three offices (Rotterdam, Amersfoort and Nijmegen). As a team we excel in a wide variety of services and skills in the fields of Water management and Climate Resilience. We provide our clients, both private and (semi)governmental, with a range of services throughout the various phases of a project: from inception, through master planning, feasibility, design all the way to constructions supervision. We have a strong foothold in the Netherlands but we operate worldwide.
Having said all this, you will be working in Accra, Ghana, together with a team of experts from Deltares and with the experts from the Client. The first month you will be mostly working with Deltares, and once FEWS version 2.0 becomes available your focus will shift towards working with the Client.
During your internship you will be working under the Team Leader of Deltares.
Are you our new colleague?
We would like to meet you! Click on the apply button and upload your resume and motivation letter. After receiving your application, we will contact you as soon as possible. The application process then consists of 2 interviews. Are we all enthusiastic after this? Then you will receive an offer from us, and we will be happy to welcome you on board!
Due to the privacy law, please submit your application via the apply button and not via email.
Acquisition for this vacancy by agencies is not appreciated and offered candidates will not be taken into consideration.
