The World Bank, one of the most influential development organizations globally, is seeking highly motivated and organized individuals to join as Program Assistants supporting its Infrastructure and Urban Practice Groups in the East Asia and Pacific Region. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful projects that address critical infrastructure and urban development challenges across 22 countries in the region.
About the Organization
The World Bank is dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development worldwide. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices globally, it collaborates with governments, private sector partners, and civil society to develop innovative solutions to complex global issues. As a vital source of financing, knowledge, and technical assistance, the World Bank plays a pivotal role in shaping development policies and implementing projects that transform lives.
The Infrastructure Practice Group & Urban Development Focus
The Infrastructure Practice Group aims to develop sustainable infrastructure solutions that bridge development gaps in emerging economies. It works closely with governments and the private sector to improve energy, transport, water, and urban systems—fundamental elements that connect communities to opportunities and foster economic growth.
Within the East Asia and Pacific Region (EAP), the Infrastructure Department (IEADR) manages project lending and advisory services focused on energy, transport, urban development, climate action, and private capital mobilization. The Urban, Resilience, and Land (GPURL) unit supports investments, technical assistance, and analytical work to promote resilient, well-planned urban growth, addressing challenges like disaster risk management, land rights, and sustainable urbanization.
Position Overview
The Program Assistant role is vital in ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of the Urban Practice Units (IEAU1 and IEAU2), based in Singapore. These positions are designed to provide comprehensive administrative, operational, and logistical support to the unit managers and team members, enabling the teams to focus on delivering impactful development programs. The positions offer the chance to gain exposure to high-level international development work and to develop a broad skill set in project administration and support.
Key Responsibilities
The Program Assistants will undertake a variety of duties, primarily focused on supporting the unit’s daily operations, project activities, and team coordination. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Administrative Coordination:
- Managing calendars, scheduling meetings, and organizing travel and visa arrangements for team members.
- Reviewing and ensuring the quality and completeness of official documents, correspondence, and reports.
- Handling general office administration such as supplies management, maintaining files, and updating contact lists.
- Acting as the primary point of contact for front-office inquiries and coordinating support for unit activities.
- Program Monitoring and Support:
- Assisting in tracking project milestones, preparing progress reports, and supporting the quality assurance process.
- Preparing presentation materials for meetings and briefings.
- Providing logistical and operational support for program events and workshops.
- Budget and Financial Support:
- Monitoring budget status, tracking expenses, and assisting with financial reports and realignments.
- Supporting the resource management team with staff cost recovery, travel expenses, and consultant payments.
- Procurement and Contracting:
- Facilitating the procurement process for consultants and service providers through the World Bank’s systems.
- Monitoring deliverables, processing payments, and managing contract amendments or extensions.
- Travel and Meeting Logistics:
- Coordinating travel arrangements, including booking flights, accommodations, and processing related expenses.
- Organizing logistics for meetings, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events to ensure seamless execution.
- Human Resources and Onboarding:
- Supporting recruitment activities such as scheduling interviews and organizing onboarding logistics for new team members.
- Assisting with office space requests, IT setup, and other HR-related arrangements.
- Additional Tasks:
- Supporting the team with ad hoc tasks, special projects, or additional administrative duties as required.
Qualifications and Skills
The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:
- Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s degree in administration, business management, or a related field.
- Professional Experience:
- At least 5 years of relevant experience supporting managerial or team-level staff, preferably within international development or similar organizations.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Familiarity with World Bank’s operational systems such as SAP, Operations Workspace, Admin Portal, and procurement platforms (e.g., WBGeProcure RFx Now) is advantageous.
- Interpersonal Skills:
- Excellent communication and tactful interpersonal skills to interact with diverse stakeholders.
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
- Personal Attributes:
- Proactive, organized, and detail-oriented with the ability to multitask effectively.
- Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in a dynamic environment.
- Team-oriented with a willingness to learn and contribute positively to a multicultural team.
Location and Duration
This is a local recruitment opportunity based in Singapore, with a term duration of three years, offering stability and the chance to be part of impactful development initiatives in the region.
Application Process
Candidates interested in this exciting opportunity are encouraged to apply via the World Bank Careers portal. The process involves registering on the system, completing the application form, and submitting relevant information. Be sure to review the specific requirements and prepare your application accordingly. For technical support during the application process, applicants can contact the World Bank’s recruitment team at the designated email provided on the careers page.
Why Join the World Bank?
Working at the World Bank provides a meaningful platform to contribute to large-scale development projects that improve infrastructure, urban resilience, and livelihoods across emerging economies. It offers professional growth, exposure to international best practices, and the opportunity to collaborate with experts dedicated to creating sustainable solutions. If you are passionate about development and possess strong administrative skills, this role could be the perfect next step in your career.
Take Action Today
Visit the World Bank Careers website to view the full job posting and submit your application by the closing date. Join a global organization committed to making a difference, and be part of a team working to shape resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities and communities across the East Asia and Pacific region.
For more details and updates, please regularly check the official careers page and ensure your application materials are complete and tailored to the role. Your contribution could help transform urban landscapes and improve lives in some of the world’s most dynamic economies.
APPLY HERE
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