Project description
Central Asia's water sector is entering a new phase with significant infrastructure investments planned across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan, shifting focus from expansion alone to long-term performance, financial viability and institutional resilience. As part of this strategic transition, GFA's Water, Sanitation and Waste Management (WSWM) department is preparing for a new generation of donor-funded water sector programmes that combine capital investment with systemic reform in partnership with institutions such as ADB, EBRD, KfW and the European Union. Our projects go beyond construction. We design projects that work in real institutional environments, not only on paper. In practice, this means we:
1. Integrate lifecycle costing, financial sustainability and climate resilience from the outset
2. Link tariff and revenue dialogue to operational performance realities
3. Embed advisory support within utilities rather than relying on stand-alone workshops
4. Strengthen governance, accountability and management structures
5. Sequence reforms in line with institutional dynamics and political timelines
6. Introduce modern management systems, digital performance tools and AI-driven analytics for data-informed decision-making and asset management
Job description
We are looking for reform-driven experts who combine technical depth with institutional insight and can meaningfully contribute to future water sector projects across Central Asia. Beyond project mobilisation, selected experts will engage through a Water Reform Platform for Central Asia – a thought leadership space focused on advancing systemic reform and shaping the future of water sector governance, financing and service delivery in the region. Engagement opportunities include, but are not limited to, contributions to regional and international events, closed IFI roundtables, technical design labs, peer exchanges, sector publications and expert panels. Applications from both international and national experts are welcome.
Qualifications
7. : University degree in Engineering (e.g. Water, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical or Environmental Engineering) or a comparable relevant field
8. : At least 7 years of relevant professional experience in operation and maintenance of water supply systems in utility or infrastructure contexts
9. : Strong working proficiency in Russian preferred, English at least B2 level
10. :Proven experience in operation and maintenance (O&M) of water supply systems Strong expertise in developing and implementing SOPs and operational procedures Hands-on experience in training and capacity building of utility staff Demonstrated experience with electromechanical equipment, including pumping systems Track record in pressure management and energy efficiency measures in water supply systems Experience in defining, monitoring and using KPIs for operational performanceTeam Leader experience in utility operations or infrastructure projects is an asset
11. : Proven experience in donor-funded projects (e.g. ADB, EBRD, KfW, EU or similar); familiarity with IFI procedures required
12. : Central Asia experience required (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan or Turkmenistan); prior work experience outside the home country preferred
Not a 100% match? We still encourage you to apply. GFA considers a wide range of profiles depending on project-specific requirements.
Your application