Transport Specialist

Job Vacancy | Friday, February 27, 2026

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 Transport Specialist is assigned to the Transport Sector Division (SD1-TRA) within the Sectors Department 1 (SD1-TRA). You will be based at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines and relocation is required. All reasonable relocation expenses will be covered.

You will report to Director, Transport and will oversee junior team members.

Your Role

As a Transport Specialist, you will contribute to the articulation and implementation of policies and strategies for the transport sector in developing member countries (DMCs). You will process and administer transport sector assistance projects, technical assistance (TA), and non-lending products and services (NLPS) to support sustainable and efficient transportation projects. You will ensure project identification, preparation, appraisal, and documentation. You will also ensure compliance with ADB's policies, operations manuals, project administration instructions, and assistance-related documentation. This will occur during the implementation of loans, TA, and NLPS for the transport projects. You will work with other teams and resource departments, and externally with clients and oversee critical tasks, as management assigns from time to time. Delivery of the position would require candidates to possess skills and sub-sectoral expertise in one or a combination of the following areas: transport infrastructure development and management, cross-border transport facilitation, the aviation subsector, and the maritime subsector.

You will:

• Conduct dialogue with government officials and other stakeholders of DMCs on transport sector issues and projects and help prepare indicative country pipeline and monitoring report.
• Support project identification, preparation, appraisal, documentation, and compliance with ADB's policies, operations manuals, project administration instructions, and related documentation.
• Ensure that you realistically incorporate climate change impacts, best engineering practices including high technology and appropriate technology, safety, and efficiency in project design for implementation.
• Work with borrowers/clients, provide guidance and help create, plan, and prepare high quality documents related to the projects (e.g., project concept papers, TA papers, RRP and linked documents).
• Assist Project Team Leaders (PTLs) in the above functions and lead such activities when assigned to be the PTL.
• Address issues raised as queries, comments, and suggestions from internal review including from senior management, and address issues raised by direct and indirect stakeholders.
• Coordinate with development agencies on loans, TA, and NLPS for compliance with ADB's project preparation, appraisal, and implementation requirements.
• Coordinate with Regional Departments, Resident Missions, Office of Safeguards, and Climate Change Sustainable Development Department in identifying, developing, implementing, and administering loans, grants, and TAs for the Transport Sector.
• Establish and maintain a monitoring system, report on project progress, and perform such administrative tasks as ADB reasonably assigns in consonance with such functions.
• Participate in the network activities in transport sector, share knowledge, and stay informed about the latest developments and issues.
• Contribute to activities for advocacy, sharing and knowledge building around transport and development issues.
• Lead staff, including their performance and development.
• Ensure the ongoing learning and development of reporting staff. Mentor junior staff and support their learning and integration into SD1-TRA and across Sector Offices.
• Work on rotation across different teams for knowledge work in the first few years as directed by TRA management.
• Perform other responsibilities as may be assigned by your supervisor and as indicated in your workplan.

Qualifications

You will need:

• A University degree in civil, highway, or transportation engineering, transport economics or finance, transport policy or planning, sustainable transport; preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent.
• At least 6 years of relevant professional experience in the transport sector including international experience working in several countries in urban transport, railways, metros, logistics, port and maritime transport, airports, private sector participation/financing, or emerging areas.
• Knowledge of transport and communications development issues in Asia. Good expertise within a specific area of ADB's operations (economic, sector or thematic), or scope across multiple areas with in-depth knowledge within one area.
• Experience in the tasks needed in the preparation of investment projects. These tasks include project identification and conceptualization, analysis of relevant policies, preparing studies and reports, and coordination with external stakeholders, consultants, and government agencies.
• Experience working with teams of professionals such as for technical, social, and environmental safeguards, economic assessments, procurement.
• Written and verbal proficiency in English and local language (as applicable)
• Proficient or advanced competency level in Client Orientation, Achieving Results and Problem Solving and Knowledge Sharing.
• 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 Staff Level 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)
• Retirement plan (if applicable)
• 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.

Multiple positions may be filled from this advertisement.

About Us

Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution headquartered in Manila, Philippines and is composed of 69 members, 50 of which are from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. ADB combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to fulfill its expanded vision under our Strategy 2030.

ADB only hires nationals of its 69 members.

To view ADB Organizational Chart, please click here.

ADB wants 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.

Visit ADB Careers FAQ for more information.

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