Principal Transport Specialist
Vacancy Number: 2329
Department/Unit: Public Sector Operations / Sectors and Themes Unit
Date of Issuance: October 15, 2025
Deadline of Applications: November 16, 2025
Required Languages: English
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
Grade: Professional
Job Category: G2
Recruitment Status: International / Local**
Contract Duration: Two-year fixed term appointment, with the possibility of renewal.
*Please note that the recruitment modality for professional positions (international or local) will be determined in line with the OPEC Fundโs policies and procedures, and based on the candidateโs nationality and residency status at the time of appointment.
Nationals from the Member Countries of the OPEC Fund for International Development are strongly encouraged to apply. The Member Countries are: Algeria, Ecuador, Gabon, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela.
Job Profile
The Principal Transport Specialist will provide strategic leadership in client dialogue and policy development related to local and regional connectivity through roads and railways, transport logistics, urban transportation, airports and ports. The incumbent will foster strong partnerships with government agencies and development partners, research institutions, non-government organizations, the private sector, and other sector-related institutions to advance sustainable and climate-resilient transport solutions. The role will be responsible for leading the design and direction of investment operations in the sector and for developing comprehensive policy papers addressing key areas such as efficiency, equity and affordability in the transport sector.
Duties and Responsibilities
Accountability & Responsibilities
Lead transport sector analytical work including preparation of strategic documentation (including presentations, proposals, notes, and other material) required for business development, supervision and dissemination of activities and strategiesDevelop investment strategies with clients to pursue the most effective approach to achieve transport efficiency in various economic environments and the specific needs of partner countriesLead and conduct the assessment of transport policies in partner countries to understand their impact on transport operations and service deliveryIdentify innovative solutions for the development of transport sector operations to support sustainable economic development and poverty reduction in consultation with partner countries, development partners and other stakeholdersContribute to the design, preparation, and delivery of transport infrastructure projects, focusing on technical quality and delivery of development outcomes. This also entails reviewing the technical designs, implementation arrangements, and adequacy of procurement and fiduciary arrangements of projects in coordination with other team membersParticipate and at times co-lead teams in operational missions, supporting the identification, preparation or appraisal of potential new operations and the supervision of the implementation of a selected number of ongoing projectsOriginate and implement high impact transport sector projects and develop a pipeline of standalone projects for OPEC Fund
Knowledge Management and Innovations
Identify innovative ideas and provide expertise, recommendations and improvement proposals to Country Managers on transport sector mattersContribute to knowledge building and management in the transport sector and keep abreast of the latest developments and issues in the sectorEnsure effective dissemination of lessons learnt and best practices in the transport sector to promote knowledge at OPEC Fund by collaborating with other departments/entities
Perform other duties as required by the Director, Sectors and Themes Unit relevant to the area of responsibilities.
Qualifications and Experience
A minimum of a Masterโs degree in Engineering, Economics, Finance or a (closely) related field A minimum of 12 years of direct relevant professional experience, of which at least five (5) years of experience within a multilateral development institution or international financial institution, with a focus on transport sector planning and operationsProven practical experience in operations and policy work within a multilateral development institution is considered a strong assetDemonstrated experience working across diverse geographic regions, with substantial exposure to local and regional connectivity, as well as large transport infrastructure (highways, ports, airports, etc.) will be an advantage.Experience of working in Latin America is considered a strong assetA demonstrated track record in producing high-quality research papers, analysis and policy briefs for the multilateral development institution or other international organizations is considered a strong assetProven practical experience in designing, implementing, and supervising projects in the sector, ideally within the context of international developmentRobust analytical skills with regard to transport sector and development financeStrong organizational skills, as well as the ability to prioritize tasks and ensure timely completion of tasks under pressure. Proactive application of relevant international best practices to own workDemonstrated project management experience, including coordination of multidisciplinary teams and stakeholder engagementFluent in English. Good working knowledge of Arabic, Spanish, Russian or Portuguese is an added advantage
Competencies
Subject Matter Knowledge - The in-depth understanding and expertise in specific fields relevant to the OPEC Fund's operations and the individual's role.Collaboration and Teamwork - The ability to effectively work with colleagues, stakeholders and partners to achieve shared goals.Communication - The ability to relay ideas, information and messages effectively and succinctly to a variety of audiences.Customer Centricity - The ability to focus on comprehending and addressing customer needs; consistently deliver exceptional service and foster strong, lasting customer relationships. Problem Solving Ability - The ability to identify issues adeptly, delve into root causes, and devise pragmatic solutions; demonstrate ingenuity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges. Sense of Responsibility - The ability to demonstrate ownership and accountability in tasks and outcomes; uphold reliability and commitment to fulfilling responsibilities.