WASH Team Leader

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established to address the interrelated challenges of health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research, and technology, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts. The organization operates in over 70 countries, including all 50 U.S. states and territories. FHI 360's Crisis Response team has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts in regions such as Tigray, Amhara, Afar, and Somali, focusing on integrated Health, Nutrition, WASH, and Protection projects to meet the urgent needs of conflict-affected populations. The organization is currently expanding its humanitarian response efforts to the Oromia Region in Negele East Borena, Ethiopia, in collaboration with the national organization, Pastoralist Concern (PC).

Job Overview:
The WASH Team Leader will operate under the supervision of the WASH Coordinator, taking charge of daily activities and collaborating with various departments and Sector Specialists to ensure effective WASH activities. The role involves overseeing the implementation of WASH activities in the Somali and Oromia regions, focusing on capacity building for staff. The WASH Team Leader will lead the identification, start-up, and execution of WASH activities as part of FHI 360's Crisis Response Programs, addressing the needs of populations affected by conflict, drought, and other emergencies. The position requires close collaboration with the WASH Coordinator to align with program goals and expectations, contributing to public health engineering assessments, designs, and the implementation of construction and renovation works. The WASH Team Leader will also track and analyze engineering work progress, budgets, and quality, suggesting program strategy adjustments as necessary. Additionally, the role includes contributing to design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and proposal preparation, ensuring that all activities are effectively coordinated and aligned with the organization's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WASH Team Leader's primary responsibilities include overseeing the implementation of all WASH activities in the Somali and Oromia regions, leading day-to-day operations, and ensuring that objectives are met according to response work plans. The role involves providing technical guidance to field teams on emergency WASH response strategies, managing WASH program budgets, and ensuring compliance with supply-chain management protocols. The WASH Team Leader will also support the field team in conducting engineering assessments, preparing designs and specifications, and supervising construction and renovation works. Coordination with local and international NGOs, UN agencies, and stakeholders is essential to ensure that WASH interventions complement other efforts and avoid duplication. The WASH Team Leader will actively participate in WASH clusters and technical working groups, representing FHI 360 and contributing to inter-agency initiatives. Additionally, the role includes managing WASH sector personnel, supporting their capacity development, and ensuring compliance with security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security protocols and financial regulations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BSc degree in Water Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree in a related field is preferred. The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience with a first degree or 3 years of relevant experience with a postgraduate degree, specifically in implementing or leading WASH projects in emergencies. Practical experience in team leadership and crisis response interventions is advantageous, along with experience in the design, implementation, and contract management of construction works. Familiarity with working with internally displaced persons and conflict-affected communities is also essential. Desired qualifications include NGO experience, knowledge of engineering design software for civil and water supply structures, and supervisory skills in construction works. Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory, along with good communication and report writing skills. Knowledge of local languages in the respective regions is a plus.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a BSc degree in Water Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related area of focus. A Master's degree in a related field is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The WASH Team Leader position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience with a first degree or 3 years of relevant experience with a postgraduate degree. Candidates should have a proven track record in implementing or leading WASH projects in emergency settings. Practical experience in leading teams is advantageous, as is experience in crisis response interventions. Familiarity with the design, implementation, and contract management of construction works is essential, along with experience working with internally displaced people and conflict-affected communities.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of local languages relevant to the regions of Somali and Oromia is desirable, as it facilitates communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a humanitarian response program and may involve working in challenging environments. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel within the regions of Somali and Oromia. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and preventing abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs. The organization adheres to equal opportunity and affirmative action principles, ensuring that all applicants are considered without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. The organization also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, gender equality, and sensitivity to the needs of rural communities.