What's the difference between STC, STT, ETC, and ETT consulting at the World Bank?
Decoding World Bank consultancy positions
Hi everyone,
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The World Bank, like pretty much all other MDBs love a good acronym (see what I did there?).
And for those who aren’t acronym literate, which is most of us, there are actually four acronyms for consultancy positions at the World Bank:
STT (Short-term temporary)
STC (Short-term consultant)
ETT (Extended-term temporary)
ETC (Extended-term consultant)
So what on earth do all of these mean?
I’ve dug into the details so you didn’t have to.
Ultimately, I think most staff members of MDBs had previously worked as a consultant (whether it be for the same MDB or a different one).
So by understanding the different consultant types, you’ll be equipped to work out what might be the best pathway to getting a staff position.
Short-Term Consultant (STC)
STCs are hired for specialized, higher-level work, typically at grade GE or above. These are roles that require technical expertise, like economists or policy analysts.
Key facts:
Maximum of 150 days per fiscal year (190 days in fragile states).
No benefits like health insurance or pensions, though you can buy health plans independently.
Pay varies widely based on expertise and location, but it’s often competitive for skilled professionals.
Common for project-based work, like research or fieldwork, for units like the Development Impact (DIME) department.
STCs are great for building your resume and networking, but the 150-day cap and lack of benefits can be tough. Many STCs report working extra unpaid hours to prove themselves, which is a real downside.
Short-Term Temporary (STT)
STTs usually handle administrative or support roles, graded from GA to GD. FYI, discussed these grading systems in last week’s free newsletter:
Anyway, they’re often clerical or operational staff. Here’s what you need to know:
Limited to 1200 hours per fiscal year (about 150 eight-hour days).
No benefits, similar to STCs.
Pay is lower than STCs, often closer to entry-level rates in Washington, D.C.
Used for tasks like data entry or logistical support.
STTs are less glamorous than STCs and offer fewer networking opportunities for high-level roles. They’re often seen as a tougher starting point for career progression.
Extended-Term Consultant (ETC)
ETCs are a step up, offering longer-term roles with some stability. They’re for specialized work at grade GE or higher. Details include:
Minimum 12-month contract, usually renewable for another two years (i.e. three-year lifetime maximum).
Includes benefits like health insurance and limited leave, unlike STCs.
Often used for ongoing projects needing consistent expertise, like data analysis or policy advisory.
ETCs give you more security and a chance to prove your worth over time. They’re closer to staff roles in responsibility but still temporary.
Extended-Term Temporary (ETT)
ETTs mirror ETCs but for administrative or support roles (grades GA-GD). Key points:
Also, a 12-month minimum, renewable for up to three years total.
Includes benefits, unlike STTs.
Typically, for operational roles requiring longer-term commitment, like program assistants.
ETTs offer stability compared to STTs but are less likely to lead directly to high-level staff positions due to their administrative focus.
The Path to a Staff Position
Now, let’s tackle the big question: how do you turn these temporary gigs into a full-time staff position?
The World Bank employs over 10,000 staff globally, with roles ranging from economists to project managers. Staff positions come with full benefits, six-figure salaries for many, and long-term stability. I discussed that all here.
But getting there isn’t a straight line, and the STC-to-ETC-to-staff path isn’t as common as you might think.
The STC-to-ETC-to-Staff Myth
Many assume the “ladder” approach, i.e. starting as an STC, moving to an ETC, then landing a staff role, is the main way in.
It’s true that STCs and ETCs are entry points, and some do transition this way. However, I can tell you from experience: many staff weren’t recruited from ETCs, and most STCs never became ETCs or staff.
Don’t get me wrong, being an STC doesn’t hurt. But don’t think it’s the only way to get a staff position.
At the end of the day, only the top performers with strong connections and specific skills (like data analysis or sector expertise) move from STC/ETC to staff.
The Smarter Path to Staff
If you’re aiming for a staff position, don’t rely solely on climbing the STC-to-ETC ladder. Here’s a practical strategy based on how the system works:
If you can, start with an STC or ETC for Exposure: These roles get you inside the Bank, where networking is everything. Build relationships with your team leader (what’s known as a Task Team Lead, or TTL for short) and senior staff. This is pretty important.
Develop In-Demand Skills: The Bank values expertise in areas like data analysis, climate finance, or development economics. Those with advanced degrees often get STC/ETC roles. If you’re early in your career, consider a master’s degree to boost your credentials.
Network Aggressively: Staff positions often go to those already known to hiring managers. Attend Bank events, engage with colleagues across units, and seek mentors.
Apply for the Young Professionals Program (YPP): The YPP is a direct route to staff positions for those under 32 with a master’s degree and relevant experience. It’s pretty competitive but bypasses the temporary contract grind.
Monitor Job Openings: Apply early and tailor your application to highlight Bank-relevant skills. The Bank opens jobs for about two weeks. And no, LinkedIn doesn’t cut it for these.
Consider Country Office Roles: STC and STT roles in country offices (COs) can offer unique opportunities to stand out, especially in fragile states where STCs can work 190 days.
Anyway, I hope this helps distil some of the differences between all of the various consulting positions available at the Bank.
And if this makes you want to explore opportunities at MDBs like the World Bank, then luckily, I’ve got you covered.
I send out an email to paid subscribers every Monday with the latest jobs from ~30 MDBs across the world.
