Senior Water Resources Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution that was established to foster economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development across its member countries. Founded in 1966, ADB has grown to include 69 member countries, with 50 of these located in the Asia and Pacific region. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. ADB combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to fulfill its expanded vision under Strategy 2030, which aims to eradicate extreme poverty and promote inclusive growth. ADB is headquartered in Manila, Philippines, and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment that respects and values diversity, encouraging all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
As a Senior Water Resources Specialist at ADB, you will play a pivotal role in coordinating and communicating projects and activities within the Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development (AFNR) sector. This position involves participating in the identification, development, implementation, and administration of loan and technical assistance (TA) projects in developing member countries (DMCs). You will support the preparation of sector road maps and strategies, contributing to sector assessments and guiding technical, institutional, and policy options in regional member countries. Your expertise will be crucial in leading policy dialogue and delivering projects focused on knowledge solutions. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of integrated water resource management, climate change adaptation, and innovative solutions to address water-related challenges. You will also oversee junior team members, ensuring effective collaboration and project delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Water Resources Specialist will have a wide range of responsibilities, including leading policy dialogue and engaging with stakeholders to develop water resource policies that align with environmental and organizational goals. You will initiate and lead regional AFNR initiatives on water, contributing to strategic planning and knowledge sharing. Your role will involve representing AFNR in meetings with ADB stakeholders and contributing to innovative approaches to policy and operational issues. You will support country programming and project development by preparing relevant analytical work in the water resources sector. Identifying necessary AFNR sector interventions, particularly in integrated water resources management, river basin management, and flood risk management, will be key. You will also promote ecosystem-based and inclusive approaches, ensuring gender equality and social inclusion are integrated into projects. Additionally, you will develop, process, and administer grant, loan, and TA projects, ensuring due diligence and delivery of development results. Your responsibilities will include leading missions, preparing project updates, and collaborating with various teams to develop innovative project designs.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in Hydrology and Water Resources Management, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related fields. A university degree with at least 5 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may also be considered. Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in the water resources sector, including international experience as a water resources specialist or water engineer. This experience should encompass various expertise areas such as integrated water resources management and flood risk management across multiple countries. Additionally, two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years is required, and international experience working in several countries is preferred.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as Hydrology and Water Resources Management, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or Civil Engineering. A university degree with at least 5 years of specialized experience may be considered in lieu of a Master's degree. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices of water resources management and related engineering disciplines.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant professional experience in the water resources sector, including international experience as a water resources specialist or water engineer. Candidates should have experience working in various countries and should ideally have worked in Asia and the Pacific region. Experience in integrated water resources management, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk management is highly desirable, as is familiarity with global water policy frameworks.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Candidates should possess strong interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an advantage, particularly in the context of working with regional member countries.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment with the option to renew, initially for a period of up to 3 years or until the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes first. The role is part of ADB's Workforce Rebalancing Framework (2022-2027), aimed at enhancing in-house expertise. Successful applicants may occasionally undertake short-term assignments in other departments or offices as required. ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances, retirement plans, medical benefits, and paid leave. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.