Senior Environmental Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on innovative solutions to the most pressing global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Senior Environmental Specialist position at the World Bank involves working within a multi-disciplinary team to support the implementation of the Bank’s environmental standards and policies. The role is crucial in ensuring that environmental sustainability is integrated into project design and implementation. The Specialist will be responsible for reviewing new investment operations, providing oversight on select projects, and advising on environmental management issues. This position requires a proactive approach to risk management and the ability to advocate for innovative solutions in environmental sustainability. The Specialist will also contribute to building client capacity and enhancing the implementation of environmental and social frameworks across various projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Environmental Specialist will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: reviewing new Investment Policy Financing (IPF), Program-for-Results (PforR), and Development Policy Financing (DPF) operations to ensure compliance with environmental standards; providing expert guidance on environmental risk management and impact assessments; leading portfolio reviews and making recommendations for action; developing and implementing regional initiatives to enhance environmental and social framework (ESF) implementation; building client capacity through training and analytical work; and collaborating with colleagues in headquarters and field offices to ensure effective project execution. The Specialist will also be involved in mission travel to support project implementation and stakeholder engagement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (master’s or PhD) in Environmental and Natural Sciences or Engineering, with expertise in relevant thematic areas such as environmental engineering, ecology, or environmental risk management. A minimum of eight years of relevant professional experience in the World Bank’s environmental and social framework (ESF) and safeguard policies is required, along with a proven track record of achieving high-quality results. Familiarity with environmental issues such as biodiversity, climate change, and occupational health and safety is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree (master’s or PhD) in Environmental and Natural Sciences, Environmental Engineering, or a related field. This educational foundation is essential for understanding complex environmental issues and applying this knowledge to policy-related decisions and advice.

Experience:
The position requires at least eight years of relevant professional experience, particularly in the context of the World Bank’s environmental and social framework (ESF) and safeguard policies. Candidates should have operational experience in environmental risk management, including the preparation and review of environmental impact assessments and management plans. Demonstrated expertise in environmental issues and familiarity with the ESF simplification process is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of French is also required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment role with a term duration of four years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or disability.