Do you want to build a career that is truly worthwhile? Working at the World Bank Group provides a unique opportunity for you to help our clients solve their greatest development challenges. The World Bank Group is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries; a unique global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and more than 120 offices worldwide, we work with public and private sector partners, investing in groundbreaking projects and using data, research, and technology to develop solutions to the most urgent global challenges. For more information, please visit www.worldbank.org

Junior Professional Associates – Program Description

The Junior Professionals Associate Program (JPA) offers an exceptional opportunity for recent graduates to embark on a professional journey, providing a three-year contract with valuable work experience within a diverse and dynamic environment and the potential of field work experience. The program is an excellent platform to sharpen your existing skills and to develop new ones, all while gaining a profound understanding of the challenges associated with reducing poverty and fostering shared prosperity on a livable planet.

We will provide you with the opportunity to gain entry-level professional experience in a premier development institution, on an Extended Term Consultant (ETC) contract with benefits. For more information, please visit www.worldbank.org/careers/jpa

The following are minimum requirements to be eligible for the JPA program:

• Be 32 years of age or younger
• Hold a bachelor’s degree
• Be fluent in English

The JPA program at the World Bank is a highly competitive initiative. Candidates who are being actively considered for positions may be required to present academic transcripts and professional references. The World Bank’s Human Resources team and hiring team will reach out exclusively to individuals selected for assessment and interviews.

Positions may be in any of the World Bank’s offices worldwide.

Specific Unit Description – SAR Infrastructure Resilience Policy and Finance Unit (ISAD1)

The SAR Infrastructure Resilience Policy and Finance Unit (ISAD1) works to enhance resilience by leveraging data-driven solutions, innovative financing, and evidence-based policies that strengthen infrastructure, mitigate disaster risks, and accelerate climate adaptation in urban and rural environments in South Asia. We manage a portfolio of about $4 billion in projects, analytical and advisory work in South Asia that spans infrastructure resilience, disaster risk management, hydromet and early warning services, thermal comfort and sustainable cooling, reconstruction after disasters, and climate adaptation.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Data Analysis and Modeling:
  • Analyze large datasets related to climate, disasters, infrastructure, and urban development
  • Develop predictive models for disaster risk assessment and climate change impacts
  • Create and maintain databases for tracking resilience indicators across projects
• AI and Machine Learning Applications:
  • Implement machine learning algorithms to improve early warning systems
  • Develop AI-driven tools for infrastructure vulnerability assessment
  • Explore applications of computer vision for post-disaster damage assessment
• Data Visualization and Reporting:
  • Create interactive dashboards and data visualizations for policymakers
  • Develop GIS-based mapping tools for spatial analysis of risk and resilience
  • Prepare data-driven reports and presentations for various stakeholders
• Policy and Decision Support:
  • Provide data-driven insights to inform resilience policy development
  • Develop decision support tools for prioritizing resilience investments
  • Assist in cost-benefit analysis of climate adaptation measures
• Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams within the Urban, Resilience and Land Global Practice
  • Collaborate with external partners and academia on data-driven research
  • Contribute to capacity building initiatives for client countries in data analytics

Selection Criteria

Academic Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field
• Strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and programming

• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R
  • Experience with machine learning libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow)
  • Familiarity with GIS tools and spatial data analysis
  • Knowledge of data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, PowerBI)
  • Understanding of database management systems
• Domain Knowledge
  • Background or demonstrated interest in climate science, urban planning, or disaster risk management
  • Understanding of global development challenges and the role of data in addressing them
• Professional Experience:
  • 2-3 years of experience in applying data science to real-world problems
  • Proven track record of developing data-driven solutions for decision-making
  • Experience working with international organizations or in development contexts (preferred)
• Soft Skills:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Excellent communication skills, ability to explain complex concepts to non-technical audiences
  • Adaptability and willingness to learn about new domains
  • Collaborative mindset and ability to work in multidisciplinary teams
• Portfolio:
  • Demonstrated projects or publications showcasing data analysis, visualization, and AI applications in relevant sectors

Diversity and Inclusion

The World Bank continually searches for qualified individuals with a diverse set of backgrounds from around the globe. We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. Individuals with different abilities may be provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential functions and support in receiving other workplace accommodations.

Poverty has no borders, neither does excellence. We succeed because of our differences and we continuously search for qualified individuals with diverse backgrounds from around the globe.