Project Officer (Agriculture and Natural Resources)

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 bank's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development across Asia and the Pacific. ADB works collaboratively with its members and partners to address complex challenges, utilizing innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard the planet. ADB is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all individuals are treated with respect and given equal opportunities, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds, including women and underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
As a Project Officer (Agriculture and Natural Resources) at ADB, you will play a crucial role in managing loans, grants, and technical assistance related to agriculture, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and natural resource management. Your responsibilities will include overseeing project administration, coordinating with various stakeholders, and ensuring the effective implementation of projects aimed at enhancing climate resilience and sustainable agricultural practices. You will be strategically positioned within the Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development Sector Office, reporting to senior management while also collaborating with technical staff. This role requires a proactive approach to project management, including the preparation of performance reports, monitoring project progress, and facilitating communication between ADB and government agencies. You will also contribute to regional cooperation initiatives and support policy dialogues on critical issues affecting the sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Officer include:

• Handling the processing and administration of loans, grants, and technical assistance projects related to agriculture and natural resources.
• Coordinating administrative, statistical, and analytical requirements for multiple projects.
• Supporting project administration and portfolio management activities, including monitoring project progress and preparing performance reports.
• Liaising with government officials, development partners, and other stakeholders to facilitate project formulation and monitoring.
• Leading project administration tasks such as preparing forecasts of contract awards and disbursements, identifying issues, and implementing solutions.
• Advising government ministries and implementing agencies on ADB guidelines for procurement and project implementation.
• Preparing Project Completion Reports and participating in project review missions.
• Contributing to climate change considerations in project documentation and knowledge exchange.
• Supervising and mentoring team members to enhance skills and capacity. 1
• Performing additional responsibilities as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in water engineering, civil engineering, economics, agriculture, or related fields, preferably with advanced training. A minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience is required, with preference given to candidates with specific sector expertise. Candidates should have a good understanding of government administrative systems and procedures, familiarity with procurement and disbursement best practices, and effective report-writing skills in English. The ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment and liaise with government officials is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as water engineering, civil engineering, economics, agriculture, or related disciplines. Advanced training in these areas is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge relevant to the position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in sectors related to agriculture, natural resources, or project management. Experience in working with government agencies and understanding administrative systems is highly valued, as is familiarity with procurement processes and project administration.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, particularly for effective report writing and communication with stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to liaise with diverse partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local staff appointment, open only to nationals and permanent residents of Armenia. 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 decision to renew will depend on various factors, including the need for the specific skills and experience of the staff member, funding availability, and performance. The role offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including housing and education allowances, medical and health benefits, retirement plans, and paid leave.