Senior Safeguards Officer (Environment)

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank established in 1966, headquartered in Manila, Philippines. ADB is owned by 69 members, with 50 of them from the Asia-Pacific region. The organization is dedicated to fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the region, working collaboratively with its members and partners to address complex challenges. ADB employs innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard the environment. The organization values diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of their background, and particularly encourages women to apply.

Job Overview:
The Senior Safeguards Officer (Environment) position is crucial for ensuring that both sovereign and non-sovereign projects comply with ADB's environmental safeguard requirements. This role involves providing independent technical support, contributing to policy discussions, and developing knowledge products for ADB's borrowers and clients. The officer will be based at the Resident Mission Office in Islamabad, Pakistan, and will report to designated International Staff while also having a matrix reporting line to the Country Operations Head. The role requires a proactive approach to project management, including conducting due diligence, advising clients on environmental safeguards, and leading safeguard review missions. The officer will also participate in country portfolio reviews and contribute to the development of ADB policies and guidelines related to environmental safeguards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Safeguards Officer (Environment) include:

• Project Management: Conducting due diligence and comprehensive analysis of projects to ensure compliance with ADB's environmental safeguards policies. This includes assessing potential environmental impacts, reviewing environmental and social impact assessments, and advising clients on incorporating environmental safeguards into project designs.
• Policy Review and Knowledge Sharing: Reviewing ADB policies and guidelines to ensure consistency with environmental safeguard requirements, developing knowledge products, and contributing to the safeguards team's database.
• Internal and External Networking: Participating in communities of practice and networks to stay informed about guidelines from other development banks and sharing relevant information with the Office of Safeguards.
• Administrative Support: Assisting in budget preparation, monitoring progress of technical assistance projects, and supporting the organization of conferences and workshops.
• Performing other duties as assigned in accordance with the workplan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related field, with a preference for a Master's degree in environmental science or similar disciplines. They should have at least 8 years of work experience in environmental assessment and management, including 4 years in a supervisory role. Familiarity with relevant safeguard policies and environmental requirements is essential, along with proficiency in environmental assessment tools and strategies. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to analyze complex problems, manage multiple workloads, and work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and a local language are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related engineering discipline. A Master's degree in environmental science or a related field is preferred, as it provides a deeper understanding of environmental issues and management practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience in environmental assessment and management, with at least 4 years in a supervisory capacity. Candidates should have a proven track record of applying structured analytical approaches to complex environmental problems and integrating diverse inputs to produce actionable recommendations. Experience in project processing and administration, particularly in relation to environmental safeguards, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, both written and verbal. Additionally, knowledge of a local language is beneficial, particularly for effective communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local staff appointment, open only to nationals and permanent residents of Pakistan. It is a fixed-term appointment with the possibility of renewal, initially for a period of up to 3 years or until the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes first. The appointment may be renewed based on the needs of ADB and the performance of the staff member. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances (if applicable), expatriate benefits (if applicable), retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and opportunities for staff development.