Transport Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution established to foster economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Founded in 1966, ADB has grown to include 68 member countries, with 49 of them from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. The organization is headquartered in Manila, Philippines, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. ADB is committed to eradicating extreme poverty and enhancing the quality of life for people in the region. The bank operates in various sectors, including transport, energy, and urban development, and aims to provide innovative solutions to complex development challenges.

Job Overview:
The Transport Specialist position is a critical role within the Transport Sector Office of the Sectors Department 1 at ADB. The primary function of this role is to contribute to the development and implementation of policies and strategies that enhance the transport sector in developing member countries (DMCs). The specialist will be responsible for processing and administering transport sector assistance projects, technical assistance (TA), and non-lending products and services (NLPS) to support sustainable and efficient transportation initiatives. This position requires a proactive approach to project identification, preparation, appraisal, documentation, and compliance with ADB's operational policies and guidelines. The Transport Specialist will engage with various stakeholders, including government officials and development agencies, to ensure that projects align with ADB's mission and objectives. The role also involves mentoring junior staff and fostering a collaborative environment within the team, ensuring that knowledge and best practices are shared effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Transport Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: conducting dialogues with government officials and stakeholders on transport sector issues; preparing indicative country pipelines and monitoring reports; supporting project identification, preparation, and appraisal; ensuring compliance with ADB's policies and operational manuals; incorporating climate change considerations and best engineering practices into project designs; guiding clients in the formulation and preparation of high-quality project documents; assisting Project Team Leaders (PTLs) in project functions; addressing queries and comments from internal reviews; coordinating with development agencies for compliance with ADB's project requirements; establishing and maintaining monitoring systems for project progress; participating in knowledge-sharing activities; leading and mentoring reporting staff; and engaging in rotation across different teams for enhanced knowledge and analytical work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in civil, highway, or transportation engineering, transport economics or finance, transport policy or planning, or sustainable transport, preferably at the post-graduate level or its equivalent. Additionally, candidates should have at least six years of relevant professional experience in the transport sector, including international work experience in areas such as urban transport, railways, logistics, climate change, and private sector participation or financing. A strong understanding of transport and communications development issues in Asia is essential, along with expertise in ADB's operations across multiple areas or in-depth knowledge within a specific area. Experience in preparing investment projects, analyzing policies, and coordinating with external stakeholders is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as civil, highway, or transportation engineering, transport economics or finance, transport policy or planning, or sustainable transport. A post-graduate degree or equivalent qualification is preferred, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex transport issues.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of six years of relevant professional experience in the transport sector. This experience should include international exposure and familiarity with various aspects of transport, such as urban transport systems, railways, logistics, and climate change impacts on transportation. Candidates should also have experience working collaboratively with teams of professionals in technical, social, and environmental assessments, as well as procurement processes.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and verbal communication skills required for effective interaction with stakeholders and the preparation of high-quality documentation. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment with the possibility of renewal for an initial period of three years, following ADB's administrative guidelines. The appointment is not convertible to a regular position, and there is no limit on the number of renewals. The role is part of ADB's Workforce Rebalancing Framework, aimed at increasing in-house expertise in key operational areas. Candidates may be required to undertake short-term assignments in other departments or offices as needed. ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave, medical and health benefits, life insurance, staff development opportunities, and retirement plans. Expatriate benefits may apply for international staff.