Background
The Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation (MOPIC) plays a critical role in coordinating international aid to support the development of an independent and functioning Palestinian state. MOPIC is committed to ensure the success of strategic initiatives under the National Program for Development and Reform (NP4DAR) and the Aid Framework, as such MOPIC seeks qualified Environmental and Social Specialist.
The Environmental and Social Specialist will provide guidance and technical expertise to ensure that the environmental and social risks associated with the projects are properly managed and mitigated, in compliance with the national policies, acts, and laws of the relevant authorities, as well as with the Environmental and Social Standards (ESS's) of the World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (ESF). The specialist will also support the integration of sustainability and inclusion into project activities, ensuring positive impacts on local communities and the environment.
The Environmental and Social Specialist will be hired under the Finance for Jobs (F4J) project, funded by the World Bank and will be based at MOPIC premises. F4J is a series of projects that began in 2017, with the overarching goal of mobilizing private investment in high-potential sectors and creating job opportunities across the West Bank and Gaza. Currently, the F4JII and F4JIII projects are underway and being implemented by DAI, the Project Implementation Agency (PIA), on behalf of the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation (MOPIC).
Responsibilities
- Ensure that all project activities comply with the national policies, acts, and laws of the relevant authorities, as well as with the Environmental and Social Standards (ESS's) of the World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (ESF).
- Support and collaborate with the MOPIC team members for the preparation and implementation of the project’s World Bank Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) and safeguard policies, including Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs) and Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), Social Impact Assessment Reports (SIAs), Labor Management Plan (LMP) and other relevant E&S instruments, plans etc.
- Conduct environmental and social risk assessments for project activities and support the identification of mitigation measures to address potential risks.
- Advise on strategies to enhance the sustainability and resilience of project activities in environmental and social terms, including climate change considerations.
- Provide technical support and guidance to MOPIC teams on environmental matters, including identifying mitigation measures and best practices.
- Assist in the identification and assessment of vulnerable groups and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to mitigate risks and promote inclusivity, including gender considerations and social safeguards.
- Monitor the implementation of environmental and social mitigation measures throughout the project lifecycle, including during planning, construction, and operational phases. This shall require periodically field visits and monitoring of environmental management activities and providing timely advice as required.
- Track and report on the effectiveness of mitigation measures and provide recommendations for corrective actions as necessary.
- Develop and maintain reporting mechanisms, ensuring that all environmental and social activities and outcomes are documented and shared with key stakeholders, including donors, and relevant authorities.
- Participating in relevant meetings, workshops, donors’ missions, and training sessions related to environmental management and the World Bank ESF.
- Facilitate consultations with communities and stakeholders to assess their concerns, especially regarding social, environmental, and resettlement issues.
- Organize training and capacity-building activities for government staff and other stakeholders to enhance their understanding and application of environmental and social safeguards.
- Establish and support the grievance redress mechanism (GRM) to address any concerns raised by affected communities related to the project’s environmental or social impacts.
- Ensure that all grievances are processed in a timely, transparent, and inclusive manner, maintaining records of the grievance handling process.
- Engage with local communities to raise awareness about the project’s environmental and social impacts, mitigation measures, and available grievance mechanisms.
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Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, social sciences, or any other related environmental management.
- Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is an advantage.
Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental and social assessment, with relevant Governmental Institutions, International Organizations, and/or the Private Sector in environmental impact assessment and monitoring and preparing environmental and social management plans.
- Demonstrated experience in managing environmental and social risks, including the preparation of ESIAs and ESMPs for large-scale infrastructure or development projects.
- Experience with projects in fragile, conflict-affected, or post-conflict settings is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with national environmental and social regulations and international best practices in sustainable development.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong understanding of environmental and social safeguards, including the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) and related guidelines.
- Excellent ability to identify, assess, and manage environmental and social risks and impacts.
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse groups, including local communities, government officials, and international stakeholders.
- Proven ability to lead the development and implementation of monitoring and reporting systems for environmental and social performance.
- Fluency in both English and Arabic (written and spoken) is required.
Reporting
The Project Manager will report directly to the Acting Deputy Assistant for International Cooperation and Aid Management.
Timeframe
The contract is for six months, based on a daily rate, with the possibility of renewal for an additional six months based on satisfactory performance and needs of the project.
References:
For more information on projects documents you can refer to the following documents:
ESMF for F4JII: https://www.f4j.ps/cached_uploads/download/2021/01/17/environmental-and-social-management-framework-1610875245.pdf
ESMF for F4JIII: https://www.f4j.ps/cached_uploads/download/2023/05/14/f4j-iii-esmf-final-version-1684046900.pdf
ESCP for F4JIII: https://www.f4j.ps/cached_uploads/download/2023/05/24/f4jiii-escp-1684911832.pdf
SEP for F4JIII: https://www.f4j.ps/cached_uploads/download/2023/04/17/f4j-iii-sep-final-version-1681731786.pdf
To Apply: If you would like to be part of a dynamic project team and are interested in submitting your CV for consideration, please apply through the following link:
Individual position postings including job description and qualifications sought can be viewed at the link provided. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for additional information.
All applications must be received no later than Monday, April 07, 2025.
About DAI: DAI is a global development company with corporate offices in the United States, the United Kingdom, EU, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Palestine, and project operations worldwide. We tackle fundamental social and economic development problems caused by inefficient markets, ineffective governance, and instability. Currently, DAI is delivering results that matter in over 90 countries. Our development solutions turn ideas into impact by bringing together fresh combinations of expertise and innovation across multiple disciplines. Our clients include international development agencies, international lending institutions, private corporations and philanthropies, and national governments. We are committed to shaping a more livable world.
DAI is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a commitment to diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
