Are you passionate about creating cities that are cleaner, more resilient, and more liveable? ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability is inviting applications for the role of Senior Expert Circular Economy, beginning 1 March 2026. This is a unique opportunity to drive real impact in sustainable urban development at a European and global level.
Position: Senior Expert Circular Economy
Start Date: 01 March 2026
Contract Duration: 24 months (with intention to extend)
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Application Deadline: 31 December 2025
About ICLEI
ICLEI is a global network of over 2,500 local and regional governments committed to advancing sustainability. Active in more than 125 countries, the organisation supports cities in building low-emission, resilient, nature-based, equitable, and circular communities. The European Secretariat is headquartered in Freiburg (Germany), with additional offices in Brussels and Berlin. With a diverse team of over 150 professionals, ICLEI Europe leads cutting-edge urban research, EU-funded innovation projects, and strategic policy work.
Joining ICLEI means contributing to international efforts such as the EU Green Deal, New European Bauhaus, and UN Sustainable Development Goals. It also means growing your career within a dynamic, international, and family-friendly workplace.
Why Join ICLEI?
As part of the Circular Economy team, you will have the opportunity to:
- Learn how cities design and implement sustainability strategies.
- Collaborate with leading researchers, policymakers, and practitioners across Europe.
- Contribute to shaping European and global sustainability policies.
- Enjoy professional growth in a supportive environment with opportunities for travel and cultural exchange.
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Required Experience, Skills & Profile
ICLEI is seeking an experienced professional with:
- A strong understanding of integrated sustainable urban development.
- At least 6 years of project-based professional experience, including 4 years specifically in circular economy work.
- Hands-on knowledge of applying circular economy principles at the local government level.
- Proven experience in project management, acquisition, and development.
- Confidence in working with diverse stakeholders from grassroots groups to national ministries.
- A solid understanding of European policies related to circular economy.
- Experience in EU-level advocacy and policy processes.
- Excellent communication skills in English; additional languages are an asset.
- A proactive, collaborative, and self-organised working style suited to fast-paced, international environments.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Expert will take a lead role in:
- Coordinating the team’s European policy and advocacy work.
- Developing position papers, policy briefs, and responding to EU policy consultations.
- Building strategic networks with EU institutions and Brussels-based stakeholders.
- Leading project management tasks, communication with partners, reporting, and administration.
- Overseeing project acquisition, including concept development, writing, budgeting, and funding identification.
- Representing ICLEI at events in Brussels and beyond.
- Organising and facilitating workshops, meetings, trainings, and conferences.
- Producing high-quality publications such as reports, case studies, and news articles.
Employment Conditions
- Initial 24-month contract with strong potential for extension.
- Annual gross salary between EUR 67,400 – 70,000.
- 40-hour work week with flexible hours and up to 50% mobile work.
- Six weeks of paid leave annually.
- International travel opportunities.
- Applicants must have EU citizenship or a valid EU residence and Belgian work permit.
How to Apply
Submit your CV and motivation letter to jobs.europe@iclei.org by 31 December 2025. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.
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