(Senior) Safeguards Specialist (Environment)

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 these from the Asia and Pacific region. The organization is headquartered in Manila, Philippines, and is dedicated to alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. ADB's mission is to create a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while actively working to eradicate extreme poverty. ADB operates in various sectors, including infrastructure, education, health, and environmental sustainability, and aims to achieve its goals through its Strategy 2030 framework, which emphasizes the importance of partnerships and innovative financing solutions. ADB is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of their background, and particularly welcomes applications from women.

Job Overview:
The (Senior) Safeguards Specialist (Environment) position is critical to the Office of Safeguards (OSFG) at ADB, where the primary focus is on ensuring compliance with environmental and social safeguards policies during project preparation and implementation. The role involves providing operational coordination and technical inputs across both sovereign and non-sovereign project portfolios. The specialist will play a key role in supporting the planning and execution of projects, ensuring that they align with ADB's safeguards policies. This includes conducting due diligence, advising management on compliance issues, and collaborating with various stakeholders, including clients, NGOs, and development partners. The position also entails hands-on implementation of projects, training staff from developing member countries, and contributing to the evaluation and improvement of ADB's safeguards policies. The specialist will oversee junior team members and ensure that the team is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage safeguard compliance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The (Senior) Safeguards Specialist (Environment) will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Conducting environmental and social safeguards due diligence to support project teams in ensuring compliance with ADB's safeguards policies during project processing and implementation.
• Advising management on compliance issues related to both sovereign and non-sovereign projects, and monitoring projects with high environmental and social sensitivity.
• Collaborating with clients, NGOs, and development partners to address safeguard policy issues and coordinate responses to concerns raised by stakeholders.
• Keeping track of relevant developments in country safeguard systems, including laws, policies, and regulations that may impact project implementation.
• Conducting due diligence for assigned projects and providing technical guidance to borrowers/clients, contributing to project completion reports, and addressing thematic areas under environmental safeguards.
• Participating in project missions to support implementation and address safeguard issues in complex projects.
• Contributing to knowledge sharing and capacity building initiatives within ADB and with developing member countries.
• Overseeing the performance of reporting staff, providing direction, monitoring performance, and supporting their ongoing learning and development.
• Supporting technical assistance and training programs focused on ADB safeguard policies and environmental management systems. 1
• Developing knowledge products and contributing to the creation of ADB operations manuals and guidance tools.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the (Senior) Safeguards Specialist (Environment) position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• A university degree in ecology, environmental management, environmental science, environmental engineering, or related fields; a post-graduate degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 6 years of relevant professional experience in safeguard work or related areas, with a strong background in project administration.
• International experience working in multiple countries is essential.
• Proven experience in conducting environmental and social impact assessments for infrastructure projects.
• Experience in developing environmental and social management plans, including safeguard frameworks and assessments covering various aspects such as air quality, noise, biodiversity, labor issues, and occupational health and safety.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think laterally to provide innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a university degree in a relevant field such as ecology, environmental management, environmental science, or environmental engineering. A post-graduate degree or equivalent qualification is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in environmental safeguards and management.

Experience:
The position requires at least 6 years of hands-on professional experience in safeguard work or related areas, particularly in project administration. Candidates should have international experience, demonstrating their ability to work effectively in diverse cultural and regulatory environments. Experience in conducting environmental and social impact assessments for infrastructure projects is crucial, as is familiarity with environmental and social management plans and frameworks.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, 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 ability to communicate with stakeholders in various countries and contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position may involve multiple openings at various grades, and the actual title and grade will be determined based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidates. The role is based at ADB's headquarters in Manila, Philippines, and offers competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave, medical and health benefits, life insurance, retirement plans, and housing allowances for expatriates. ADB is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women.