Senior Program Associate – Urban Development

Senior Program Associate – Urban Development

World Resources Institute (WRI)

July 18, 2025September 1, 2025BengaluruIndia
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
WRI India, an independent charity legally registered as the India Resources Trust, is dedicated to providing objective information and practical proposals to foster environmentally sound and socially equitable development. Established with a mission to protect the earth and enhance human well-being, WRI India is inspired by the World Resources Institute (WRI), a global research organization. Currently, WRI India employs over 250 researchers across its offices in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The organization is committed to advancing gender and social equity, ensuring equal opportunities in employment, and fostering a culture of integrity, innovation, urgency, independence, and respect.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Associate for Urban Development will play a crucial role in supporting projects and anchoring research work that informs evidence-based actions for creating inclusive and resilient urban environments. Reporting to the Program Head, the associate will be responsible for conducting and publishing research studies, engaging with partners, and learning new tools and skills relevant to urban development. The position requires a proactive approach to coordinating with various stakeholders, guiding junior researchers, and ensuring smooth project execution through effective communication and collaboration with internal teams and external partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Program Associate include anchoring and supporting research and on-ground activities related to climate action plans and urban resilience projects. The associate will coordinate with a diverse group of partners and stakeholders across public, private, and civil society sectors. They will guide junior researchers in conducting research and delivering outputs, frame detailed research scopes, and design methodologies for initiatives, including primary survey design and data collection. The associate will also support project-related activities such as research writing, partner dialogues, technical reviews, and reporting. Additionally, they will assist in logistical processes, prepare briefings for senior team members, and organize training and capacity-building sessions. Travel to other locations may be required for project activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD, Masters, or equivalent postgraduate degree in urban planning, environmental planning, urban design, development studies, or public policy. They should have 4 to 7 years of relevant work experience in research or consultancy, managing all aspects of projects, including multi-partner consultations and interactions with government agencies. Proficiency in research methodologies, quantitative and qualitative analysis tools, and project management tools is essential. Strong report writing and reviewing skills, along with the ability to present complex information clearly, are also required. Experience working with government ministries, NGOs, and other non-government partners is highly valued.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD, Masters, or equivalent postgraduate degree in fields related to urban planning, environmental planning, urban design, development studies, or public policy. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of urban development and the methodologies used in research and analysis.

Experience:
The position requires 4 to 7 years of relevant work experience in a research or consultancy environment. Candidates should have experience managing all aspects of projects, including consultations with multiple partners and interactions with government agencies. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the associate can effectively contribute to the organization's goals and manage the complexities of urban development projects.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. The ability to communicate complex information in a simple manner suitable for diverse audiences is essential. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not explicitly stated as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The position is a term hire for 1 year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project requirements. The salary range for this position is between 14,00,000 to 18,00,000 INR CTC per annum, commensurate with experience and skills. WRI India offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, term insurance, an employee assistance program, personalized diet recommendations, flexible work schedules, and generous leave policies. The organization values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and is committed to creating a welcoming work environment.
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