Safeguards Specialist (Environment)

Asian Development Bank (ADB); Mandaluyong; On-site; PHP 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing and education allowance

Relocation

Retirement plan

Medical and health benefits

Paid leave

Life and other insurance plans

Staff development

Job summary

Asian Development Bank is seeking a Safeguards Specialist (Environment) to support planning, development, and implementation of environmental safeguard policies across projects in the Asia-Pacific region. The role entails hands-on due diligence, policy coordination, and capacity building for developing member countries.

The position is based at ADB Headquarters in Manila, Philippines with relocation support and potential reassignment to a resident mission for three years.

Qualifications

• University degree in environmental science, environmental management, or related fields.
• Post-graduate level preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal proficiency in English.

Responsibilities

• Undertake environmental safeguards due diligence and support project teams in safeguards policy compliance.
• Advise management on project compliance and monitor high-risk projects.
• Coordinate safeguard policy issues among departments and OSFG.
• Support capacity building, knowledge sharing, and training related to safeguards.

Job description

Job Description - Safeguards Specialist (Environment) (26050)

Join Our Mission to Foster Prosperity in Asia

Are you ready to make a difference in the future of Asia and be a catalyst for positive change? We are thrilled to offer a unique opportunity to become an important part of the prestigious Asian Development Bank (ADB). At ADB, our mission is simple yet powerful: to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region.

Organizational Setting and Reporting Relationship

The position of Safeguards Specialist (Environment) is assigned to the Office of Safeguards (OSFG). You will be based at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines and relocation is required. All reasonable relocation expenses will be covered. Subject to business needs, the role may be assigned at another resident mission office for an initial assignment of three years.

You will report to the Director, Office of Safeguards and will supervise junior team members.

Your Role

As a Safeguards Specialist (Environment), you will support the planning and development as well as provide operational coordination and specific technical inputs to ADB projects to ensure compliance with environment safeguard policies and procedures during project preparation and implementation. You will be supporting sovereign and non-sovereign projects. This is an operational and hands‑on role, and you will also support the planning, development, implementation of ADB environmental safeguards policies, and training staff from developing member countries.

You will:

• Undertake environmental safeguards due diligence and support project teams in safeguards policy compliance of projects during processing and implementation.
• Advise management on compliance of projects, monitor and report to OSFG management on projects with high safeguards risks. For assigned projects, collaborate with clients, non-government organizations (NGOs), development partners, and within ADB, including coordinating responses to NGOs.
• Keep track of issues or related developments that are useful for safeguards implementation including complaints on projects, and new or updates to country safeguard systems (e.g., laws, policies, regulations, and procedures).
• Coordinate safeguard policy issues between the regional department, sector and other teams, and OSFG.
• For assigned projects, conduct due diligence and provide technical guidance to borrower/clients and contribute to project completion reports and address relevant thematic areas under environmental safeguards and other requirements (e.g. biodiversity, labor and working conditions, partner engagement, occupational health and safety, community health and safety, and cultural heritage);
• Participate in project missions supporting project processing and implementation and undertake due diligence of country systems and address safeguard issues in high risk, and complex and sensitive projects.
• Contribute to safeguards knowledge sharing and capacity building.
• Contribute to activities for advocacy, distribution and knowledge building relating to ADB’s safeguard policies and their application.
• Oversee the performance of reporting staff, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance; and ensure the ongoing learning and development of reporting staff.
• Support technical assistance (TA) and training and capacity building programs for ADB developing member countries and clients, focused on ADB safeguard policies, environmental and social management systems, and other specialized technical topics.
• Develop knowledge products and contribute to the development of ADB operations manuals, staff instructions and the preparation of guidance and tools.
• Provide technical guidance to national staff to help them manage safeguard compliance.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned and reflected in your workplan.

You will need:

• A University degree in environmental science, environmental management, or other related fields; preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent.
• At least 6 years of relevant hands‑on professional experience in environmental and safeguards work, or related areas and in project administration.
• Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of environmental and social issues in several Asia‑Pacific countries. International experience working in several countries with work in South Asia preferred.
• Experience in urban and transport projects preferred, with developing or implementing environment, health, and safety (EHS) management plans and systems to ensure safeguards outcomes are achieved in a cost‑effective manner.
• Excellent written and verbal proficiency in English.
• Two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years is required. Years as an ADB‑engaged consultant or contractor are considered experience outside of ADB.
• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for Technical International Grade 1.

Benefits

ADB offers a rewarding salary and a comprehensive benefits package. The salary will be based on ADB’s standards and comparator markets, taking into account your qualifications and experience.

• Housing and education allowance (if applicable)
• Expatriate benefits (if applicable)
• Relocation (if applicable)
• Retirement plan
• Medical and health benefits
• Paid leave (including parental)
• Life and other insurance plans
• Staff development

Additional Information

This appointment is open to internal and external applicants.

This position is crucial to the Workforce Rebalancing Framework (2022-2027), a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing ADB’s in‑house expertise previously sourced from the external workforce. The role seeks seasoned experts with substantial field experience capable of leading policy dialogue, and projects focused on delivering knowledge solutions. Successful applicants may occasionally undertake short‑term assignments in other departments or offices, when required.

This is a fixed term appointment with option to renew, initially for a period of up to 3 years, or up to the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes earlier, for the purpose(s) and conditions determined by ADB, in accordance with Administrative Order No. 2.01 (Recruitment and Appointment). After the initial fixed‑term period, ADB may choose to renew the appointment for up to an additional 3 years or not renewed. This decision will be made in the overall interest of ADB, based on factors including but not limited to the requirement of Staff’s particular blend of skills and experience for the medium‑term work program of the organizational unit, sufficient funding to cover the renewed period, and Staff’s performance and suitability for employment. There is no limit to the number of renewals up to NRD. However, this appointment is not convertible to a regular appointment.

About Us

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is headquartered in Manila and owned by 69 members—50 from the region.

ADB only hires nationals of its 69 members.

ADB seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment. ADB encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities. Women are highly encouraged to apply.

Asian Development Bank Headquarters-Philippines-Manila

Department: Office of Safeguards

Staff Category: Technical International (HQ)

Position Level: TI1