Associate Safeguards Officer

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. Headquartered in Manila, Philippines, ADB was founded in 1966 and currently comprises 69 member countries, with 49 of these from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development, aiming to create a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. The organization combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to achieve its goals, particularly under its Strategy 2030 framework. ADB is committed to ensuring that all individuals are treated with respect and provided equal opportunities in a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, especially women and underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
The Associate Safeguards Officer position is integral to the Private Sector/Pacific Operations Services team within the Office of Safeguards at ADB. This role involves ensuring compliance with social safeguards requirements for both private and sovereign sector projects, adhering to the Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) and other relevant social development policies. The officer will engage in interdepartmental policy discussions and contribute to the development of knowledge products and services that support sector staff and clients. As ADB transitions to a new Environmental and Social Framework, the officer will be expected to develop skills to align projects with these new standards. The position requires a proactive approach to project management, strategic planning, knowledge management, and internal and external networking, ensuring that social dimensions are effectively integrated into project design and implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Safeguards Officer include:

• Project Management: Conducting comprehensive analyses of project documents throughout the project cycle, assessing social impacts, preparing social analysis sections, and reviewing environmental and social impact assessments. The officer will also lead safeguard review missions, document findings, and recommend actions for compliance.
• Strategic and Planning Work: Reviewing and suggesting improvements to social policies and operations manuals to ensure alignment with ADB's SPS and other requirements.
• Knowledge Management: Developing knowledge products, preparing technical assistance projects, and conducting research on social development and safeguards.
• Internal and External Networking: Participating in communities of practice, keeping sector staff informed about social development issues, and engaging with other financing institutions.
• Administrative Support: Assisting in the administration of technical assistance projects and preparing training modules on relevant topics.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in social sciences or development studies, with a preference for those holding a Master's degree or equivalent. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in areas such as involuntary resettlement, indigenous peoples, social development, gender and development, and labor and social protection is required. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of social issues in project financing, possess project/field-based experience, and have proficiency in social impact analysis and assessments. Familiarity with ADB's social policies and experience in using information technology for data management are also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in social sciences or development studies. A Master's degree or equivalent is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise in the relevant fields. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of social safeguards and development issues that the officer will encounter in their role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in the field of social development, particularly in areas such as involuntary resettlement, indigenous peoples, and gender and development. Candidates should have some management experience and a proven track record of addressing social safeguards and labor challenges in projects. Intensive project or field-based experience is essential to effectively navigate the social dimensions of development projects.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within ADB. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region would be considered an asset, enhancing the officer's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at Level TL4, indicating a seniority level that requires significant expertise and experience. ADB offers a competitive compensation package, including paid leave, medical and health benefits, life insurance, retirement plans, and allowances for housing and education if applicable. The organization also provides expatriate benefits for international staff. The closing date for applications is set for April 25, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Manila time.