Expert Environment

Expert Environment

As an expert in the Environment programme, you bring proven experience with implementing practical, cost-effective solutions in energy, water and waste management, and understand how reducing emissions and promoting circular use of resources strengthens business competitiveness and resilience. Are you ready to drive change worldwide and make a real impact? This is your opportunity!

About PUM 

PUM is a unique NGO committed to making a positive impact on a global scale. With a network of 1,200 skilled voluntary experts, we collaborate with ambitious entrepreneurs in 26 countries and 12 programmes, sharing expertise to strengthen business ecosystems and create economic, social, and environmental value. We work closely with small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the organisations that support them. We believe in the power of collaboration and in the magic that happens when diverse perspectives come together; Together we grow! 

Who are you?

• You have an education and/or relevant hands-on experience in one (or more) of the following expertise areas:
  Water:
  – Wastewater treatment (domestic waste water and/or industrial);
  – irrigation systems;
  – groundwater, drilling, pumping;
  – drinking water preparation, quality control, distribution;
  – industrial water processes (osmosis, desalination, membrane technology, cooling water);
  – water saving techniques (industrial and in hospitality).
  Waste:
  – Waste collection and logistics;
  – waste treatment (solid waste, hospital waste, chemical waste, building waste);
  – mechanical separation techniques;
  – composting of organic waste;
  – waste incineration (small scale systems);
  – sustainable landfill.
  – waste prevention/ cleaner production in industrial processes.
  Energy:
  – renewable energy solution such as solar energy, small-scale hydropower, biomass and clean cooking.

• You are an authentic, resilient, humble and dynamic professional.

• You appreciate cultural differences and interact with equality and respect.

• You are eager to operate as a sparring partner in culturally diverse and changing circumstances.

• You are hands-on and can translate knowledge into a practical plan.

• You have excellent command of the English language, both verbally and in writing. Bonus points for French or Spanish proficiency!

• You are comfortable with digital tools, including Microsoft Office 365.

• Discover more about the Environment programme here.

Ready to make a difference?

As an expert at PUM, you play a key role. By sharing your knowledge and experience you’re empowering the sustainable growth of SMEs in countries worldwide. You’re not just an expert - you’re a change maker!

The role

Your application is for a place in our pool of experts for the Environment programme, not for a specific project. Once you've joined, you will be matched with up to three projects per year, either on location or remotely. Around one in three projects will be delivered as remote advice, though working solely on remote advisory projects is also possible.
On location, you’ll spend two weeks on-site with the client. PUM covers your flight and visa, while the client takes care of your accommodation, meals, and local transportation. You will also receive an expense allowance.
As PUM expert you not only share knowledge, you also:

• Empower entrepreneurs, supporting their journey toward sustainable and inclusive business development.

• Leave a lasting impact on the community: socially, environmentally, and economically.

• Turn your knowledge into a hands-on project plan.

• Expand your horizons at sector days and building a network that’s as diverse as it gets.

Eligibility and Requirements

The expert role is a voluntary position. You can apply up to and including the calendar year in which you turn 69. PUM engages experts who reside in the Netherlands, are registered in the Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP), and have Dutch basic health insurance. Prescreening (VOG) is part of the selection process. At PUM, we celebrate diversity and inclusion as essential pillars of our organisation. We embrace the uniqueness of each individual to foster an environment where everyone can thrive by being their authentic selves.

Join us!

By becoming a PUM expert, you’re not just stepping into a new role; you’re becoming a catalyst for positive change. It’s a two-way street of knowledge exchange that makes a global impact. Here’s what’s in it for you:

Continuous learning: Embrace new perspectives and gain insights by connecting with diverse people and cultures.
Professional network: Be part of a network of approximately 1,200 volunteer experts and let your network abroad grow as well.
Optimal knowledge utilization: Put your expertise to its best use, making tangible impact on businesses worldwide.
International exposure: Immerse yourself in a multicultural environment, broadening your horizons.
Building a brighter future: Contribute to the sustainable development of communities, cultivating a profound sense of fulfillment.
Stunning office moments: Enjoy regular meetups at our beautiful office in The Hague with breathtaking views.

We review applications on a rolling basis and encourage you to apply as soon as possible, as we may close the vacancy once we’ve found enough qualified candidates.