Circular Economy Project officer

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Circular Economy Project officer

Work Location: Thakhek, Khammouane Province

(This position is available to LAO nationals only)

About CRS

Catholic Relief Services is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. CRS works to save, protect, and transform lives in need in more than 100 countries, without regard to race, religion or nationality. CRS’ relief and development work is accomplished through programs of emergency response, HIV, health, agriculture, education, microfinance and peacebuilding.

Job Summary:

Empowering to Act for Circular Transition in Plastics in Lao PDR (EMP-ACT) is a four-year project (2025-2028) funded by the EU and CRS, that will support Lao PDR’s efforts to reduce single-use plastic consumption and prevent plastic pollution, in line with national strategies like the National Plastic Action Plan 2024-2030.

The project will be implemented in Savannakhet and Khammuane provinces. It seeks to enhance awareness and participation of consumers in reducing single-use plastic use, increase availability of sustainable plastic alternatives, and strengthen public sector support for plastic transition through policy dialogue.

The Circular Economy Project Officer will contribute to the development and implementation of circular economy activities and MSME engagement in Savannakhet Province. The Officer will support technical planning, partnership development, and coordination with government agencies, private sector actors, and local stakeholders to promote sustainable and inclusive circular economy initiatives. The position will ensure that activities align with project objectives, CRS’s quality standards, and national strategies on waste management and sustainable development.

Roles and Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the planning, coordination, and implementation of circular economy activities in Savannakhet Province under the EMP-ACT project.
• Support the development and implementation of research on plastic value chains, plastic recyclability, and consumer behavior research to inform behavior change interventions and improve sustainable plastic use and recycling systems.
• Support assessments and data collection on waste generation, recycling systems, and circular economy opportunities in target areas., , and feasibility analyses on waste streams, recycling markets, and MSME capacities in target areas.
• Facilitate the participation of MSMEs, waste collectors, and community enterprises in recycling and upcycling activities.
• Prepare technical content, mission reports, and other written outputs. Maintain project documentation and databases, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Support community events, exhibitions, and school campaigns that highlight local MSME initiatives and circular economy practices.
• Contribute to the development of monitoring tools to track progress of circular economy initiatives.
• Work closely with government partners including ministry of agriculture and environment and local authorities to align project interventions with national and provincial waste management strategies.
• Strengthening partnerships between MSMEs, local authorities, recyclers, and community groups to promote inclusive and market-driven circular economy models.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred. Degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Waste Management, Sustainable Development, Business Administration or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in waste management, recycling systems, or environmental sustainability, preferably with an NGO or development agency.
• Familiarity with Lao waste management regulations, local governance systems, and environmental strategies.
• Additional experience may substitute for some education.
• Proficiency in MS Windows and MS Office packages (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) required

Required Languages – Fluency in written and spoken Lao is required. Excellent proficiency in reading and writing English is required.

Travel – Must be willing and able to travel up to 20%.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Observation, active listening and analysis skills with ability to make sound judgment
• Good relationship management skills and the ability to work closely with field staff and local government partners

• Attention to details, accuracy and timeliness in executing assigned responsibilities
• Proactive, results-oriented and service-oriented
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of circular economic principles, solid waste management systems
• Experience in capacity building, community engagement, and policy dialogue.
• Knowledge of plastic value chains and recycling market dynamics in Lao PDR.
• Strong analytical and communication skills, with ability to prepare concise technical reports and presentations.

Agency-wide Competencies (for all CRS Staff)

These are rooted in the mission, values, and guiding principles of CRS and used by each staff member to fulfill his or her responsibilities and achieve the desired results.

• Integrity
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation
• Build Relationships
• Developed Talent
• Strategic Mindset
• Accountability & Stewardship

Supervisory Responsibilities

No supervisory responsibilities.

Working Conditions

Based in Khammouane Province (Thakhek), with occasional travel to Savannakhet or Vientiane for coordination, training, or project meetings as required.

Key Working Relationships

Internal: Project Manager, Program Manager II Program Quality, MEAL Manager, MEAL Officer.

External: Government partners, NGO partners, medium and small business, waste management facilities, education institutions (including schools and universities)

APPLICATION INFORMATION: To apply for this position, please submit an application letter stating your expression of interest along with your most current CV by emails to: LA_HR@crs.org.

Closing date for applications: December, 05, 2025, Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

CRS’ talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation.

CRS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.