Environmental Specialist (National)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

(Individual Consultant Selection)

Country: Republic of Uzbekistan
Grant: Grant Facility for Project Preparation (GFPP)
Project: Transforming Public Education for Economic Growth Operation
Assignment Title: Environmental Specialist (National)
Reference No.: UZ-MOPSE -529545-CS-INDV

The Ministry of Preschool and School Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan (MoPSE), with support from the World Bank under the Grant Facility for Project Preparation (GFPP), is preparing the Transforming Public Education for Economic Growth Operation, which aims to improve the quality, accessibility, and inclusiveness of school education in Uzbekistan.

The Operation is structured as a hybrid program consisting of a Program-for-Results (PforR) component and an Investment Project Financing (IPF) Technical Assistance component. The preparation grant finances analytical, institutional, fiduciary, environmental, and social preparatory activities required for the design and readiness of the full program.

To support implementation of these activities, the Ministry intends to recruit an Individual Consultant – Environmental Specialist for the Implementation Office.

Scope of Services

The Environmental Specialist will support the Ministry and the World Bank team in managing environmental risks and ensuring compliance with Uzbekistan’s environmental legislation and the World Bank Environmental and Social Framework (ESF).

The Consultant’s responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

Support to the World Bank Task Team (PforR Component)

- Support preparation of the Environmental and Social Systems Assessment (ESSA) by providing information on national environmental legislation, environmental permitting procedures, environmental monitoring systems, and institutional responsibilities.

- Participate in World Bank technical meetings, field missions, consultations, and validation discussions.

- Assist in identifying gaps between national environmental management systems and PforR Core Principles and propose measures for strengthening environmental management capacity.

- Contribute to preparation of the Program Action Plan (PAP) with regard to environmental management measures.

Environmental Documentation (IPF Technical Assistance Component)

- Support preparation of environmental instruments including:

• Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP)
  • Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF), if required
  • Environmental screening procedures and checklists
  • Environmental management plans where applicable

- Conduct environmental screening of proposed school construction sites.

- Identify potential environmental risks related to construction activities, waste management, water use, energy efficiency, pollution prevention, occupational health and safety, and community health and safety.

- Review consultants’ reports to ensure compliance with national environmental legislation and the World Bank ESF.

Environmental Monitoring and Coordination

- Support integration of environmental requirements into project documentation including feasibility studies, procurement documentation, and school design standards.

- Coordinate with relevant government agencies, including environmental authorities and regional administrations.

- Participate in site visits to verify environmental compliance.

- Support preparation of environmental monitoring summaries for project progress reporting.

Qualifications and Experience

The Ministry encourages applications from qualified national professionals, including early-career specialists and recent graduates interested in developing expertise in environmental risk management under international development projects.

The Consultant should meet the following qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, ecology, natural resource management, civil engineering, or other related disciplines.

- Up to 2 years of relevant professional experience in environmental management, environmental research, environmental monitoring, or related areas. Experience gained through internships, academic research, consulting assignments, or work with government institutions, NGOs, or international organizations will be considered relevant.

- Demonstrated analytical, research, and reporting skills, including the ability to review documentation, collect environmental data, and prepare structured reports.

- Strong interest in environmental risk management, sustainable infrastructure development, and environmental compliance.

- Familiarity with the World Bank Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) or other international environmental safeguard systems will be considered an advantage but is not mandatory.

- Knowledge of Uzbekistan’s environmental regulatory framework will be considered an advantage.

Languages

- Working knowledge of English

- Fluency in Uzbek and/or Russian

Skills

- Analytical and problem-solving skills

- Ability to prepare structured reports and technical documentation

- Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and learn quickly in a fast-paced project environment

- Proficiency in standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

The selected consultant may receive technical guidance and capacity support from the World Bank team during implementation to strengthen practical application of ESF requirements.

Duration and Location

The assignment is expected to be for 10 months (including a three-month probation period) and may be extended depending on project needs and performance. The Consultant will be based in Tashkent with possible travel to project regions.

Selection Method

The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the World Bank Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers – Individual Consultant Selection method.

Submission Requirements

Interested candidates should submit:

- Curriculum Vitae (CV)

- Cover letter indicating relevant experience and motivation for the assignment.

Expressions of interest must be submitted no later than 25 March 2026, 18-00 Tashkent time (GMT +5) by applying to this vacancy.