Energy Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank established in 1966, headquartered in Manila, Philippines. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. The organization is owned by 69 members, with 50 of them from the region. ADB employs a diverse workforce and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities. The bank works collaboratively with its members and partners to address complex challenges, leveraging innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives and build quality infrastructure. ADB is dedicated to ensuring sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific, and it encourages all qualified candidates to apply, particularly women and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Job Overview:
The Energy Specialist position is a critical role within the Energy Sector Division (SD1-ENE) of the Sectors Department 1 (SD1) at ADB. The selected candidate will be based at ADB's headquarters in Manila, Philippines, and will be responsible for formulating and articulating energy sector policies and strategies. This role involves engaging with developing member country (DMC) governments in policy dialogue and conducting ADB's activities to support sector policy and reforms. The Energy Specialist will identify opportunities for energy transition in alignment with ADB's 2021 Energy Policy (amended in 2025) and will support the development, processing, and implementation of investment and technical assistance projects in the energy sector. The position requires collaboration with various departments within ADB to deliver value-added services to DMCs, ensuring that projects contribute to ADB's overarching goal of reducing poverty. The Energy Specialist will also oversee junior team members, guiding them in their work with governments and ensuring the quality of project development and implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Energy Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Contributing to the development of energy sector policies and strategies for sustainable and low-carbon development in DMCs, in consultation with relevant government agencies.
• Collaborating with other sector offices and departments within ADB to propose integrated solutions that address DMC needs.
• Conducting policy dialogues with governments to develop and execute appropriate policies and undertake energy sector reforms.
• Guiding the team in incorporating legal frameworks, accountability, stakeholder engagement, and oversight mechanisms into projects and policies.
• Contributing to the preparation, processing, and administration of loans, grants, and technical assistance in the energy sector.
• Proposing appropriate contract modalities and leading discussions on procurement issues.
• Coordinating closely with regional departments and resident missions to identify, develop, and administer loans and technical assistance for the energy sector.
• Ensuring compliance of lending and non-lending products with energy policy and strategies.
• Identifying priority areas in the energy sector and proposing modalities for required loans and technical assistance support. 1
• Developing and maintaining strategic partnerships with external partners for knowledge and project opportunities. 1
• Contributing to internal and external training and conferences on clean energy and related activities. 1
• Supporting the review and quality control of documents submitted to senior management and the board. 1
• Leading, supervising, and mentoring junior staff, ensuring their ongoing learning and development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Energy Specialist position must possess a university degree or equivalent in engineering, economics, finance, business administration, or related fields, preferably at the post-graduate level. They should have at least 6 years of relevant professional experience in energy policy, regulation, and projects, with international experience in multiple countries. The ideal candidate will be a credible expert in energy policy and governance, capable of leading projects and sharing knowledge to benefit the ADB community. A broad expertise within a specific area of ADB's operations or breadth across multiple areas with in-depth knowledge in one area is essential. A sound understanding of energy sector technologies and energy transition pathways is required, along with awareness of nuclear power. Additionally, two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years is mandatory, and written and verbal proficiency in English is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Energy Specialist position includes a university degree or equivalent in fields such as engineering, economics, finance, or business administration. A post-graduate degree or its equivalent is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in energy policy and projects.

Experience:
The position requires at least 6 years of relevant professional experience in energy policy, regulation, and projects, with a strong emphasis on international experience. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in both the public and private sectors, demonstrating their ability to navigate the complexities of energy systems and policies across different countries. Experience as an ADB-engaged consultant or contractor is considered relevant experience outside of ADB.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, both written and verbal. This is essential for effective communication and collaboration within ADB and with external stakeholders. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions where ADB operates.

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 needed. The appointment is open to both internal and external applicants, and there is no limit to the number of renewals up to NRD. However, this appointment is not convertible to a regular appointment. ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances, expatriate benefits, retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and staff development opportunities.