About the World Bank Group

The World Bank Group (WBG) is one of the largest global sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, committed to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, WBG partners with both public and private sectors to drive impactful projects addressing critical global challenges.

About the Senior Counsel Position

The World Bank’s Legal Vice Presidency (LEG) is seeking a Senior Counsel to provide legal expertise in international water law, environmental law, and social safeguards. The position is part of the Environmental and International Law Practice Group (LEGEN), which supports sustainable development initiatives across various projects. The selected candidate will guide World Bank operations on transboundary water systems, dam safety regulations, and compliance with environmental and social safeguard policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise on international water law and transboundary water issues, including compliance with the World Bank’s Operational Policy on International Waterways (OP 7.50).
• Interpret and provide guidance on global treaties such as the Convention on the Law of the Non-navigational Uses of International Watercourses and regional water agreements.
• Serve as the LEGEN focal point on dam safety, ensuring regulatory compliance across World Bank-funded projects.
• Provide legal support for the Bank’s Environmental and Social Safeguards/Standards, focusing on Environmental and Social Standard (ESS) 3 and ESS 4.
• Collaborate across multiple World Bank units to integrate environmental and international law into project operations.

Format & Location

• Mode: Full-time employment
• Location: World Bank headquarters or regional offices (to be determined)

Selection Criteria

Academic Qualifications & Experience

• Law degree (JD, LLB, LLM required; SJD or PhD optional) with 8+ years of relevant experience.
• Admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction.
• Expertise in international water law, environmental and natural resources law, and public international law.
• Knowledge of regional, bilateral, and transboundary water agreements.
• Strong legal transactional experience and ability to provide policy guidance.
• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in French, Spanish, or Portuguese is desirable.

Additional Benefits

The World Bank Group offers:

• Comprehensive benefits (retirement plans, health insurance, parental leave, disability support).
• Competitive salary based on experience and position grade.
• Field assignment benefits for international staff.
• An inclusive, equal-opportunity work environment.

Links

• Official World Bank Careers Page
• Apply Here

Apply now and be part of a global team driving sustainability, legal excellence, and impactful development projects!