Urban Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution dedicated to providing funding and knowledge to developing countries. Established with the mission to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, the organization comprises five institutions and has 189 member countries. With over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank collaborates with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and leverage data, research, and technology to address pressing global challenges. The organization is committed to fostering economic growth and social inclusion, particularly in regions facing significant development hurdles, such as Sub-Saharan Africa.

Job Overview:
The Urban Specialist position is integral to the World Bank's Urban and Disaster Risk Management (DRM) program, focusing on urban development and infrastructure in Gabon and the Central African Republic (CAR). The role involves providing technical support for operational and analytical tasks, including the preparation and implementation of lending operations and projects. The Urban Specialist will collaborate with various teams within the unit and across global practices to enhance urban development, resilience, and disaster risk management. This position is crucial in addressing the rapid urbanization occurring in Sub-Saharan Africa, which presents both challenges and opportunities for economic growth and poverty reduction. The Urban Specialist will be expected to engage with stakeholders, support local governments, and contribute to the development of urban solutions that align with the World Bank's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Urban Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing substantive contributions to urban development and disaster risk management engagements through existing country programs, ensuring technical support for the implementation of urban and resilience agendas.
• Supervising Urban/DRM investment operations, which involves reviewing Terms of Reference (TORs), technical specifications, and bidding documents, leading supervision missions, and preparing internal reports.
• Leading or co-leading technical reviews, knowledge sharing, and capacity-building activities related to civil engineering and urban infrastructure, while coordinating with clients and development partners.
• Offering operational support to government counterparts and implementing agencies by identifying potential issues and advising on necessary actions for project implementation.
• Contributing to analytical activities within the Urban and DRM program, conducting spatial, economic, and statistical analyses, and interpreting data related to urban management and services.
• Supporting coordination among stakeholders involved in urban sector disaster risk programs, including development partners and civil society.
• Assisting task team leaders in managing Trust Fund activities, including grant proposal preparation, technical consultations, and quality control of deliverables.
• Identifying key opportunities for business development in urban development, DRM, and infrastructure, and conceptualizing urban solutions for operational and analytical purposes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant field such as urban planning, civil engineering, or hydrology. Additionally, a minimum of five years of proven experience in urban development or related infrastructure fields is required. This experience should include work with government authorities, contractors, or development institutions, demonstrating expertise in infrastructure design, civil works contract management, and urban resilience policies. Strong civil engineering skills in urban infrastructure, particularly in areas like drainage and urban development works, are essential. Familiarity with the World Bank's operations or programs financed by other development partners is also beneficial, along with effective communication skills in both English and French.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, either a Master's or a PhD, in a field pertinent to urban development. This could include disciplines such as urban planning, civil engineering, hydrology, or related areas that provide a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of urban infrastructure and development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least five years of relevant experience in urban development, urban drainage, or related infrastructure sectors. This experience should be gained through work with government authorities, contractors, or development institutions, showcasing a proven ability to engage in infrastructure design, civil works contract management, and the development of urban resilience policies. Experience in Gabon or the Central African Republic is particularly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the specific challenges and opportunities present in these regions.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as effective verbal, analytical, and written communication skills are essential. Additionally, knowledge of French is preferred, as it enhances the ability to engage with local stakeholders and partners in Gabon and CAR, where French is widely spoken. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will be a significant asset in fulfilling the responsibilities of the Urban Specialist role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of two years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The Urban Specialist will be expected to work collaboratively within a multicultural team and may engage in international collaboration as part of the World Bank's global mission.