Today, water scarcity and water quality issues that exceed national boundaries demand the presence of well-trained diplomacy and development experts who are capable of dealing with issues of global water. With many countries all over the world facing the dilemma of sustainably managing their water systems, it is individuals with a combination of the right expertise and practical knowledge who will play leading roles in the sector of water resource management.

Skills Required

1. Cross-Cultural Communication: Overcoming low efficiency in cross-cultural communication and navigation in global linguistic environment is the key factor for sustainable water diplomacy at the global level. 

2. Technical Expertise: A strong comprehensive base in hydrology, water management principles and environmental science are the pillars that define this profession. 

3. Policy Analysis and Development: Analyzing water policies, exploring the consequences of their implementation and involvement in the development of better, enduring water resource management strategies is the core of the water sector.

4. Negotiation and Conflict Resolution: The professionals have to be very strong in their diplomatic skills and they should be able to go for the dispute resolutions so that the water becomes the source of tension and conflict.

Courses and Training

1. Water Diplomacy and Governance: Courses which emphasize international water law, transboundary water management, and diplomacy are designed to give students a basic understanding of the intricate issues involved in the management of shared water resources.

2. Hydrology and Water Management: There are technical classes that teach on topics such as the application of hydrological modeling, watershed management, and integrated water resource management which are practical lessons in the sustainable utilization of water resources.

3. Professional Development Programs: Organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, and regional development banks often offer professional development programs and training opportunities for individuals working in the field of water resources management and international development.

Salary Structure

A. The positions that are considered entry-level like research assistants or policy analysts at junior level, can range from $40,000 to $60,000 per year.

B. Experienced professionals at the mid-to-senior level of expertise with more years of experience and specialized skills can earn between $60,000 to $100,000 or more on an annual basis. Positions like water policy analyst, project manager or foreign policy professional usually come with a salary range around this level.

C. Senior level positions such as directors or senior policy advisors earn annual salaries between $100,000 and $150,000, with the highest somings per year offered in top international organizations, governmental agencies or consulting firms. 

A global water career in diplomacy and development is distinctive with the potential to make a huge difference which is one of the most challenging today. Through honing essential skill sets, taking advantage of relevant courses and training, and understanding the salary scenario, desire workers can take the right map for this field.

The author is  National President, Indian Plumbing Association