E T Consultant - Water Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global organization that aims to reduce poverty and support development by providing financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Established in 1944, the WBG operates in over 145 countries with more than 182 offices worldwide. The organization focuses on various sectors, including water and sanitation, to address pressing global challenges. With a diverse workforce, the WBG emphasizes collaboration across cultures and disciplines to create scalable, data-driven solutions that improve lives and generate better job opportunities.

Job Overview:
The E T Consultant - Water Economist position at the World Bank involves strengthening the Water Knowledge Bank's empirical and policy-analytical capacity. The role requires producing credible, policy-relevant evidence on various aspects of the water sector, including regulation, tariff and subsidy reform, utility performance, and financial sustainability. The economist will also be responsible for converting analytical findings into actionable guidance and operational tools for client countries and regional teams. This position is crucial for addressing the challenges of water allocation, investment, and institutional reforms, and it requires a strong command of econometrics and applied microeconomic methods, as well as proficiency in statistical programming packages.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the E T Consultant - Water Economist include:

• Conducting applied empirical research and data analysis by designing and implementing rigorous analyses using various data sources.
• Applying advanced econometric methods and spatial econometric techniques to analyze water-sector outcomes.
• Analyzing regulatory frameworks and economic instruments related to water supply and sanitation, including tariffs and user charges.
• Evaluating the implications of water-sector policies and reforms on economic efficiency, financial sustainability, and equity.
• Contributing to the development of flagship reports, policy notes, and operational guidance.
• Providing analytical support to regional and country teams, including data diagnostics and regulatory assessments.
• Collaborating with various specialists across the World Bank Group and presenting findings at seminars and workshops.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the E T Consultant - Water Economist position must possess an advanced degree in economics or a closely related field. A Ph.D. is preferred, along with substantial relevant professional experience of at least five years. A strong record of applied empirical research and quantitative analysis relevant to development policy is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in preparing major analytical reports and possess excellent writing skills for both technical and senior decision-making audiences. Experience in the water sector is strongly preferred, along with familiarity with developing country data and policy institutions.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in economics, applied economics, public policy, agricultural and resource economics, environmental economics, urban or regional economics, or a closely related field. A Ph.D. is highly desirable, particularly for candidates with substantial professional experience in relevant areas.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least five years of relevant professional experience beyond graduation. This experience should include a strong record of applied empirical research and quantitative analysis, as well as the ability to independently prepare and finalize major analytical reports and policy documents. Experience in the water sector is strongly preferred, and familiarity with energy, transport, or other regulated network industries will also be considered valuable.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly French and Spanish, is preferred and considered an asset, as it aligns with the World Bank Group's operations in various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity based in Washington, DC, with a term duration of one year. The role is full-time and may require collaboration with international teams. The World Bank Group values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment. Candidates are encouraged to demonstrate their ability to work collaboratively across teams and cultures, and to leverage digital tools for enhanced productivity. The organization also emphasizes the importance of addressing challenges in fragile and conflict-affected contexts.