Senior Social Specialist – WSP Ankara

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WSP Ankara office is currently seeking a Senior Social Specialist to join our Sustainability Services team on a full-time contract basis based in Ankara (Turkey). The successful candidate will join our multi-discipline and cross-international team supporting in the development of projects in different sectors.

In this role, you will provide technical leadership on social assignments, contribute to strategic decision‑making, and support project managers in overseeing complex studies, client interactions, and project outcomes, while ensuring compliance with international standards and best practice.

THE ROLE:

• You will be responsible for providing support for the social components of Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) focusing particularly on social studies and impact management, which may entail tasks such as planning and executing baseline surveys, engaging with stakeholders, and more.

• You will be responsible for social components of Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD) and post-finance monitoring of projects, including identifying risks and impacts, reviewing compliance with project’s commitments and applicable international requirements, and reporting.

• You will attend working and organizational meetings, client meetings, and support project managers.

• You will coordinate subcontractors, questionnaire teams.

• You will support the development of technical reports.

• You will play an active role in management of social works and development of social documentation (chapters, management plans, action plans livelihood restoration plans resettlement action plans etc.) and contribute strategically to the sustainability of projects.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor of Science and Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in Sociology, Anthropology, or a related social science discipline.

• A minimum of 8-12 years of professional experience in social assessment–related assignments, preferably within an international or national consultancy environment.

• Solid and demonstrated experience in leading site surveys, ESIAs, and ESDDs for project finance, with a strong focus on social impact assessment, stakeholder engagement, land acquisition, and Environmental and Social Management Systems (ESMS).

• Proven experience in the preparation and/or implementation of Livelihood Restoration Plans (LRP) and Resettlement Action Plans (RAP) for complex infrastructure, energy, or industrial projects.

• Strong working knowledge of national and international social standards, including IFC Performance Standards, EBRD Performance Requirements, the Equator Principles, and other relevant lender or regulatory frameworks.

• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken; ability to draft high‑quality technical reports and communicate effectively with international clients and lenders.

• Strong analytical skills, with advanced capacity for technical interpretation, report writing, and quality control of social deliverables.

• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills, with a proven track record of delivering projects on time and managing multiple assignments simultaneously.

• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, including experience liaising with clients, authorities, affected communities, and multidisciplinary project teams.

• High proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook); experience with SPSS or other analytical/statistical tools is an asset.

• Willingness and availability to travel and undertake fieldwork, including in challenging or remote locations when required.

• Demonstrated ability to lead or mentor junior team members and contribute to team capacity building.

• Valid Class B driving license and practical driving experience.

• Strong familiarity with a wide range of social assessment methodologies, data collection tools, consultation techniques, and monitoring procedures.

Benefits:

• A strong and inclusive corporate culture that values collaboration and professional growth,

• Comprehensive, employee focused benefits package, including private health insurance,

• Opportunities to develop and deepen technical expertise in a dynamic work environment,

• Exposure to innovative and collaborative multidisciplinary projects,

• On the job training, mentoring, and coaching from experienced professionals,

• Opportunities to work on international projects and participate in site visits and travel,

• Hybrid working model, offering flexibility through a combination of office based and remote work,

• Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to support employee wellbeing.

WHAT YOU’LL LIKE ABOUT US:

• A working environment inspired by diversity, driven by inclusion.

• Our flexible working policy - We recognise the importance of work-life balance and encourage you to find yours.

• WSP is about making the world around us a better place, including the environment, transport infrastructure, buildings and land use.

• Excellent career prospects. We're growing fast, and every day we strive to outdo ourselves. We are open to your ideas and want to try new things. We have a supportive environment that invests in your development and training.

• WSP is about embracing a culture of collaboration with colleagues who stand out for their skills. Come and discover our fantastic team!

OUR RECRUITMENT PROCESS:

• Telephone interview: We'll start with a telephone interview to get to know you better and discuss your experience.

• HR/Manager Interview: You will meet with our TA team and the department manager to assess your technical and cultural skills.

• Interview with the Business Unit Director: A meeting with the Business Unit Director to discuss your potential role and our strategic vision.

ABOUT US:

We are one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Our trusted employees share a common goal of making a positive and lasting impact on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity and inclusion.

Are you hesitating to apply? Go for it! We are proud to promote diversity, equal opportunities and professional integration within our teams, and we are convinced that our differences and an inclusive working environment contribute to our development. All applications will be carefully considered.

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