Project Officer - Infrastructure

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that all staff and partners respect and protect the dignity and rights of everyone involved in their work. The organization fosters a collaborative, mission-driven culture aimed at improving the lives of the poor throughout the world, welcoming individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share their values and commitment to service.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer for Infrastructure will serve as a support lead for the infrastructure component of the Advancing Cross-border Resilience and Opportunities for Safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (ACROSS) Project in Nigeria. This role involves coordinating and reporting on all activities related to the Productive and Social Infrastructure component of the project. The Project Officer will provide technical guidance and advice to staff and implementing partners, ensuring that CRS's work effectively serves the poor and vulnerable populations. The position requires strong coordination and relationship management skills to apply best practices and enhance the impact of the project on the communities served. The Project Officer will also be responsible for monitoring project activities, documenting progress, and ensuring compliance with donor requirements and CRS program quality standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Officer will support and coordinate all infrastructure development projects as outlined in the detailed implementation plan, ensuring alignment with CRS program quality principles and standards, donor requirements, and good practices. Responsibilities include completing project documentation for assigned activities, assisting in identifying information for case studies and reports, monitoring and reporting challenges or gaps, and supporting local project stakeholders. The officer will supervise and conduct inspections at project sites, ensure proper tracking of resource use, produce technical designs and budgets for infrastructure works, and oversee the training of Cash-for-Work beneficiaries. Additionally, the Project Officer will collaborate with local partners to prepare reports and collect data for project evaluations, while also monitoring capacity building and technical support activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree, preferably in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or Construction Management. A minimum of 2 years of work experience in project support, particularly in Construction or Infrastructure management, is required. Experience in developing and implementing infrastructure or community projects for development organizations or NGOs is essential. Registration with professional regulatory bodies in engineering, construction, or architecture is an advantage. Additional experience may substitute for some educational requirements.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree is required for this position. Degrees in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or Construction Management are preferred. Candidates with relevant experience may be considered even if they do not meet the educational requirements fully, as additional experience can substitute for some education.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in project support, ideally within the field of Construction or Infrastructure management. Candidates should have experience in developing and implementing infrastructure or community projects for development organizations or NGOs. Hands-on experience in construction design and project management is highly valued, and familiarity with engineering design software is a plus.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of Hausa is preferred. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages to engage with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria, and requires the candidate to be willing to travel up to 75% of the time. The role does not have supervisory responsibilities. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S. based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits are based on the country of employment. The organization emphasizes a commitment to safeguarding and expects all staff to adhere to its policies and procedures.