Water Supply Management Expert

Background

At Nicholas O'Dwyer, sustainability is at the core of our work. If you are looking to advance your career in a socially responsible company, which has a proven track record over 90 years, and is committed to creating a sustainable planet, we invite you to be part of our team.

Our mission is to provide innovative and reliable solutions using cutting edge technology and expertise, to ensure project success and employee satisfaction. We deliver infrastructure projects in water, wastewater, transportation, civil and structural engineering, flood protection, and energy including renewables. With headquarters in Ireland, we also operate in the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

As part of the RSK Group, an amalgamation of over 200 companies with more than 17,000 employees, we benefit from a global network of opportunities while retaining our brand and autonomy.

Project Overview

This strategic initiative is a critical pillar of the Federated States of Micronesia’s (FSM) national resilience strategy, aiming to secure sustainable water and sanitation services across a highly vulnerable archipelago of over 600 islands. Under the Water Security and Resilience Improvement Project, this Project Readiness Financing (PRF) assignment is designed to address the urgent challenges of climate change: including sea-level rise, saline intrusion, and extreme weather, by preparing high-priority, climate-resilient infrastructure investments across the states of Chuuk, Pohnpei, Yap, and Kosrae.

As part of the Detailed Engineering Design (DED) consultancy, your primary responsibility will be to provide high-level technical, environmental and social safeguards, and strategic management services to the Department of Resources and Development (DoRD) and its Project Management Unit (PMU). This assignment focuses on preparing feasibility studies, and detailed engineering designs aligned with the ADF14 Thematic Window, as well the preparation of financial, social, environmental safeguards deliverables to ensure alignment with ADB’s Due Diligence framework. The goal is to ensure that all project outputs are implemented effectively, on schedule, and in strict compliance with Asian Development Bank (ADB) criteria and the requirements of potential co-financing partners (GCF, EU, DFAT). This is a unique opportunity to lead a transformative programme with a significant national impact on climate resilience in the Pacific.

We are currently seeking an experienced Water Supply Management Expert with a minimum of 10 years' post-graduate experience to lead the assessment, planning, and technical preparation of climate-resilient water supply systems across the four FSM states. The ideal candidate will bring proven leadership in evaluating existing infrastructure, identifying priority investments, and ensuring alignment with ADF14 climate finance eligibility. You will possess strong technical skills in non-revenue water (NRW) reduction and utility management, with a demonstrated ability to guide state-level working groups and ensure compliance with ADB requirements. 

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Leading the assessment, planning, and technical preparation of climate-resilient water supply systems across the four FSM states.
• Evaluating existing infrastructure and identifying priority investments to ensure sustainable project outcomes.
• Integrating climate adaptation measures and nature-based solutions into detailed engineering designs.
• Ensuring all technical activities and project screenings align with ADF14 climate finance and ADB safeguards.
• Guiding the preparation of operational and management approaches for state utilities.
• Leading the team in non-revenue water (NRW) reduction strategies and utility management improvements.
• Providing on-the-job capacity building and mentoring to national and state counterparts to facilitate knowledge transfer.
• Maintaining a focus on institutional strengthening and operational readiness for sustainable project implementation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience Required:

• Advanced degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Water Resources Management, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in water supply planning, operation, and management.
• Proven experience in climate adaptation and working with Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
• Demonstrated expertise in working with Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), specifically ADB procedures.
• Extensive knowledge of non-revenue water (NRW) reduction and water utility management.
• Excellent knowledge of spoken and written English combined with superior communication and reporting skills.
• Ability to be based in FSM on a full-time basis for the duration of the 14-month assignment.