About the Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris

The Regional Knowledge Centre of Marine Plastic Debris was established in October 2019, as part of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA). The Centre serves as a knowledge platform on marine plastic pollution in ASEAN+3 countries with activities including (1) supporting research and science-based policy formulation, (2) gathering and disseminating scientific knowledge (3) facilitating national and regional capacity-building activities, (4) developing collaborative networks and partnerships, and (5) promoting innovations from the private sector.

Job Description

One of the components for which the Regional Knowledge Centre would like to further multiply and strengthen its activities from 2024 onward is capacity building in the ASEAN region. Therefore, we are looking for a Capacity Building Expert – a seasoned professional with extensive experience in developing and overseeing the implementation of capacity-building programmes related to plastic pollution and waste management in the ASEAN+3 region.

The main duties and responsibilities include:

1. Capacity building needs assessment and prioritization
2. Capacity building training material development
3. Network development and outreach
4. Implementation of the training sessions in the ASEAN
5. Reporting, follow-up, and communication

 Technical Qualifications

• Experience in the development and oversight of technical capacity-building programs, training material development or academic teaching is required.
• Substantive experience having worked in the field directly related to marine plastic pollution, plastic pollution, waste management, plastic recycling, marine biology, or plastic material flow is necessary.
• Previous exposure to the ASEAN region outside the home country is necessary.
• Experience in organizing online, hybrid and in-person events, meetings, seminars etc. is necessary.
• Strong ability to interact with a multi-disciplinary set of experts, participants and consultants and facilitate oral and written communication is needed.
• Experience working for governmental and/or non-profit programs or organizations is an asset.
• Knowledge of digital content production, especially for effective communication is highly desired.

Functional Competencies

• Ability and willingness to travel within and outside the ASEAN+3 region rather frequently.
• Ability to handle and manage tasks with minimal oversight.
• Strong analytical, reporting and writing abilities as well as strong outreach and communications skills.
• Openness to change and ability to receive/integrate feedback.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines, manage multi-task requirements, high attention to detail and a high degree of pro-activity and initiative.
• Hands-on and results-oriented approach.
• Well-developed interpersonal and team working skills, initiative, persistence, and positive attitude.

Job Requirements

• Education: University Degree in waste management, environmental science, economics of development, environmental policy, marine biology or plastic chemical engineering or other related fields is required. A master’s degree or a PhD will be an asset.
• Experience: At least 8 years of demonstrated relevant working experience is needed.
• Language: Excellent command of English, (written, speaking) including highly developed report redaction skills is crucial.

Duty Station

The Capacity Building Expert is expected to be based in the ERIA office in Jakarta. As of April 2024, ERIA operates under a 100% Work from Office modality.

How to Apply

Send the following items to recruit@eria.org by 31 July 2024:

• Updated CV (English)
• Cover letter
• Additional note explaining any knowledge of plastic waste management/plastic material flow, and/or any experience in capacity development in the relevant field

When you email us, please write ‘Capacity Building Expert for RKC-MPD’ in the subject field. ERIA only accepts applications submitted through this mail address.