EMP-ACT Circular Economy Project Officer

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

EMP-ACT Circular Economy Project Officer

(Based in Savannakhet Province)

This position is available to LAO nationals only

About CRS

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) 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, nutrition, health, agriculture, education, environment, 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, including the following:
• Provide technical and equipment support to the formal waste facility, covering procurement, handover, staff training and follow-up on how the equipment is used.
• Support and coordinate with Environmental Management Academic Center (EMAC) to provide trainings for formal and informal waste pickers on occupational safety and health and circular jobs, making sure women and other vulnerable groups are included.
• Support the set-up of around 6 waste recycling bank pilots in schools and community locations in Kaysone Phomvihane. This includes equipping sites for sorting and storage, providing technical guidance, and coordinating with local authorities so that recyclables reach formal processing facilities.
• Support the set-up of two circular economy business demonstration hubs. This includes helping develop selection criteria, assessing locations and equipment needs, and coordinating with host businesses or organizations on roles and sustainability arrangements.
• Support and coordinate with EconoxLaos to support MSMEs to get sustainability labels and plastic reduction certification by working with the consultant, coordinating the process and giving technical support to participating businesses.
• 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 MSME development, 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 – This position is based in Savannakhet with travel to Khammuane and Vientiane province up to 30%.

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.
• Understanding of MSME development principles and how to support MSME engagement in the circular economy system

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

No supervisory responsibilities.

Working Conditions

Based in Savannakhet Province (Kaysone City), with occasional travel to Thakhek 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)

Agency REDI Competencies (for all CRS Staff)

Agency competencies clarify expected behaviors and attitudes for all staff.  When demonstrated, they create an engaging workplace, help staff achieve their best, and help CRS achieve agency goals.  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.

• Personal Accountability – consistently takes responsibilities for one’s own actions.
• Acts with Integrity – consistently models values aligned with CRS Guiding Principles and mission. Is considered honest.
• Builds and Maintains Trust – shows consistency between words and actions.
• Collaborates with Others – works effectively in intercultural and diverse teams.
• Open to Learn – seeks out experiences that may change perspective or provide an opportunity to learn new things.

Agency Leadership Competencies:

• Lead Change – continually looks for ways to improve the agency through a culture of agility, openness, and innovation.
• Develops and Recognizes Others – builds the capacity of staff to reach their full potential and enhance team and agency performance.
• Strategic Mindset – understands role in translating, communicating, and implementing agency strategy and team principles.

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

Closing date for applications: 24 November 2026. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

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

CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer