WASH OFFICER

Position summary

The position holder will support in improving governance of water resources and services by increased capacity of local offices of the Water Resource Authority (WRA) to coordinate with and manage community level water associations; increasing capacity of Water Resource User Associations (WRUAs) to develop and implement evidence-based and inclusive water resource management plans; increased water availability for multiple uses; and enhancing platforms for resolving water-based conflicts. He/She will also seek to Increase sustainability of water service delivery by enhancing capacities of water service providers for efficient, reliable, and increased rural water service delivery; increasing access to water in rural areas; enhancing operation and maintenance of water supply systems; and increasing revenue generated from community managed water points.

Duty Station: Isiolo Town with travels across the County

Contract duration: One year, renewable.
Position supervision: Programme Manager

Roles and Responsibilities

Technical Expertise and Oversight:
●Develop and implement the WASH program strategy for Isiolo County, aligning with STAWI Mashinani overall objectives and donor requirements.
●Provide technical guidance and expertise to the WASH team on all aspects of program implementation, ensuring adherence to best practices and relevant standards.
●Oversee the quality and effectiveness of program activities, including water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, capacity building, and community engagement.
●Identify and address any WASH technical issues related to STAWI Mashinani Strategic Objective 1 (SO1) & SO2, seeking solutions and implementing corrective measures as needed.
●Participate in feasibility studies, survey, detailed design, technical drawings, BoQ, reports and approvals for inclusive WASH infrastructure improvement in liaison with relevant technical staff from the government authorities and implementing partners (with standard formats for environmental assessment (EIA), audit, detailed approved design, BoQ, construction quality)
●Support in WASH infrastructure survey, design, budget estimation and construction ensuring:
●Ensure timely construction of inclusive quality WASH infrastructure within estimated budget, establish operation protocols, and ensure functionality of all systems.
●Assist in preparing bidding documents and material and work specifications.
●Conduct trainings regarding operation and maintenance of water supply and sanitation facilities for beneficiaries and water management committees.

Compliance and Reporting:

●Ensure all WASH activities comply with donor regulations, MID-P policies and procedures, and STAWI Mashinani guidelines.
●Oversee and manage WASH program monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress, measure impact, and inform decision-making.
●Prepare timely and accurate reports on program activities, results, and challenges for internal and external stakeholders.

Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement:

●Build and maintain strong relationships with a diverse range of partners, including Government Agencies, NGOs, community organizations, WRUAs, WRA and private sector entities.
●Collaborate with partners to leverage resources, expertise, and connections to achieve shared WASH program objectives.
●Effectively engage with communities, local leaders, and stakeholders to understand their needs, encourage participation, and ensure program sustainability.
●Represent MID-P in WASH sectoral meetings with the government and other development agencies in the County and share experiences and learn from the programme and others as well.
●Serve as the primary point of contact for WASH under STAWI Mashinani in Isiolo county.
●Facilitate smooth and effective coordination between the STAWI Mashinani program and the lead awardee, ensuring alignment of efforts and achieving program goals collaboratively.
●Participate in relevant meetings, committees, and discussions related to the STAWI Mashinani program, representing MID-P and providing technical expertise.
●Ensure timely completion and submission of all required reports to stakeholders, including to STAWI Mashinani.
●Filling in for other project staff as and when need arises.

Required minimum qualification, skills, and experience.

Degree in Public Health, Strategic Management, Water Resources Management, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in managing WASH programs, preferably in ASALs.
Demonstrated experience in providing technical leadership and guidance on WASH programming.
Strong understanding of WASH principles, best practices, and international standards.
Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans, manage budgets, and monitor program performance.
Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Experience navigating and adhering to donor regulations and guidelines.
Experience working in complex development contexts and addressing community needs effectively.
Fluency in English and proficiency in Kiswahili
IT proficiency in relevant software applications