WASH Officer (IPC)

WASH Officer (IPC)

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)

October 20, 2026October 9, 2026Democratic Congo
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of the children it serves.

Job Overview:
The WASH Officer (IPC) position is crucial in implementing, monitoring, and coordinating UNICEF's Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) interventions in response to the Ebola outbreak in the Greater North Kivu Province. The role requires strong coordination and adaptability to effectively support vulnerable populations and at-risk communities during a complex health crisis. The officer will work closely with national authorities and other stakeholders to ensure that essential services are maintained and that community engagement is prioritized in the response efforts. This position demands a proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by the outbreak and requires a commitment to UNICEF's mission of safeguarding children's health and well-being.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WASH Officer will be responsible for the following duties:
  • Implementing and coordinating WASH and IPC interventions in the context of the Ebola outbreak, ensuring alignment with national and international guidelines.
  • Monitoring the effectiveness of WASH programs and making necessary adjustments based on field assessments and community feedback.
  • Collaborating with government authorities, NGOs, and other partners to enhance the impact of WASH initiatives.
  • Conducting training sessions for local health workers and community members on IPC protocols and WASH best practices.
  • Collecting and analyzing data related to water quality, sanitation facilities, and hygiene practices to inform program decisions.
  • Developing communication materials to raise awareness about hygiene practices and the importance of sanitation in preventing Ebola transmission.
  • Traveling frequently throughout the Greater North Kivu Province to oversee program implementation and provide technical support.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Public Health, Environmental Health, Sanitary Engineering, or a related field. A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in WASH, public health, or environmental health is required. Previous experience in Ebola preparedness and response is mandatory, along with knowledge of IPC protocols and guidelines from WHO and CDC. Strong teamwork skills, diplomatic abilities, and an innovative mindset are essential for success in this role. Candidates should also demonstrate flexibility and the ability to work under stressful conditions.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as Public Health, Environmental Health, or Sanitary Engineering is required for this position. Additional relevant postgraduate training that complements the primary degree will be considered a significant asset, particularly in areas related to outbreak control and emergency health response.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of experience in relevant areas, including WASH, water quality, public health, and environmental health. Experience in Ebola preparedness and response is mandatory, and familiarity with IPC protocols is essential. Relevant experience in development, fragile settings, and humanitarian contexts will be highly regarded.

Languages:
Fluency in French is required for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is desirable. Intermediate knowledge of English is considered an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the international context of UNICEF's operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to medical clearance and may require compliance with vaccination requirements. UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct and is committed to safeguarding children. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. The role may involve frequent travel within the Greater North Kivu Province, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges associated with working in a complex health crisis. UNICEF encourages applications from all qualified candidates and promotes diversity within its workforce.