Job Summary
- Employer: Orange-Senqu River Commission (ORASECOM)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Maseru, Lesotho
- Category: Environmental
- Salary: A cost-to-the-company monthly remuneration will be negotiated with the successful candidate based on budget and experience
- Closing Date: 2026-10-30
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure environmental and social considerations are integrated into all feasibility assessments.
- Ensure that Environmental and Social Risk Assessment and Management are integrated into the overall project risk management framework.
- Ensure stakeholder engagement complies with regulatory and lender requirements.
- Monitor compliance with lender standards relating to resettlement and livelihood restoration as well as social impact management.
- Oversee development of Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs).
- Review climate change risk and vulnerability assessments and ensure alignment with climate finance and sustainable infrastructure requirements.
- Ensure cumulative impacts are reflected in mitigation measures and planning processes to ascertain basin-wide sustainability considerations.
- Ensure compliance with applicable transboundary water agreements and regional frameworks.
- Ensure community safety considerations are integrated into risk management planning.
- Ensure compliance with environmental and social legislation requirements throughout the footprint of the project.
- Ensure project readiness for financing and lender due diligence by ensuring alignment with: International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards; World Bank Environmental and Social Framework; African Development Bank Integrated Safeguards System; Equator Principles; DBSA Environmental Safeguard Guidelines requirements.
Requirements
- Master’s Degree in Environmental Science or Natural Resources Management;
- The ESS Specialist must demonstrate professional experience of at least 15 years post-qualification experience in Environmental Impact Assessment, Environmental Audit, Ecological Assessment, Environmental and Social Management Plan, Safety Assessment, and Climate Change Assessment;
- The candidate must demonstrate strong experience of not less than ten years working with large water infrastructure projects that deal with issues of resettlements and compensations;
- He/she must be fluent in English and be able to work in a team environment;
- Prior experience in a similar role and familiarity with the Orange-Senqu River Basin will be an added advantage;
- Term: Twelve-month contract, renewable based on performance and possibility of extension of the project (tentatively estimated to cover the period January 2027 to December 2027);
- Duty Station: The position will be based at the PMO office in Maseru, Lesotho. The ORASECOM Secretariat will help a successful candidate obtain a work permit, if required. The successful candidate will be required to reside in Maseru at his or her own cost.
Salary
A cost-to-the-company monthly remuneration will be negotiated with the successful candidate based on budget and experience
How to Apply
About the Company
The Orange-Senqu River Commission (ORASECOM) is a river basin organization established by the governments of Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, and South Africa to promote equitable and sustainable development of the Orange-Senqu River system. In Lesotho, ORASECOM operates through its national focal point, coordinating water resource management policies and projects that affect the Senqu River basin, which forms a critical part of the country's water infrastructure. The commission facilitates joint technical studies, data sharing, and infrastructure planning between member states, with Lesotho's participation being essential given the country's position as the source of the Orange River. ORASECOM's work in Lesotho supports the implementation of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and ensures that national water development aligns with broader regional agreements. The organization is headquartered in Pretoria, South Africa, but maintains active engagement with Lesotho's Department of Water Affairs through regular meetings and collaborative programs.
Managing shared water resources for sustainable development
Website: https://www.orange.fr/portail
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become an Environmental and Social Safeguard Specialist at ORASECOM?
A bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources Management, or a related field is typically required. Many employers in Lesotho prefer candidates with additional certifications such as ISO 14001 or World Bank/IFC safeguard training. Experience with transboundary water resource management is highly valued given ORASECOM's regional mandate.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an ESS Specialist in Lesotho?
You will conduct environmental impact assessments, review project documentation for social and environmental risks, and ensure compliance with national and international safeguard policies. Field visits to Orange-Senqu River basin sites are common, requiring travel within Lesotho and occasionally to South Africa, Botswana, or Namibia. You will also prepare reports and engage with local communities and government stakeholders.
How does local work culture in Lesotho affect this role?
Lesotho's work culture emphasizes respect for hierarchy and relationship-building with government officials and traditional leaders. Punctuality is valued, though meetings may start flexibly to accommodate proper greetings and introductions. Understanding Sesotho customs and demonstrating patience in consultations with rural communities will strengthen your effectiveness in this position.
What career progression opportunities exist for ESS Specialists in Lesotho?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Specialist, Environmental Manager, or Regional Coordinator roles within river basin organizations or international NGOs. Many professionals transition into consulting or pursue master's degrees to access positions with the United Nations, African Development Bank, or larger environmental firms operating in Southern Africa.
What benefits are typically included in contract positions with organizations like ORASECOM?
Contract positions usually include medical aid coverage, though pension contributions vary depending on contract duration and terms. Annual leave typically ranges from 15 to 25 working days depending on seniority and contract negotiation. Some regional organizations also provide travel allowances for cross-border assignments within the Orange-Senqu River basin.
How should I apply for an ESS Specialist role, and what do Lesotho employers prioritize?
Submit a detailed CV highlighting safeguard experience, fieldwork, and any transboundary water projects through the organization's official application portal or email. Employers prioritize demonstrated experience with environmental and social management frameworks, strong report writing in English, and proven stakeholder engagement skills. Include references from previous supervisors who can speak to your technical competence and reliability in meeting deadlines.