WASH Officer

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. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to build careers while serving children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The WASH Officer position is crucial for the effective implementation of WASH programming in Myanmar. Reporting to the Chief of Field Office in Taunggyi, the WASH Officer is responsible for providing technical, operational, and administrative assistance throughout the WASH programming process. This includes preparing, managing, and implementing a variety of tasks related to the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of WASH output results. The role encompasses several key functions such as programme development and planning, programme management, monitoring and delivery of results, technical and operational support for programme implementation, humanitarian WASH preparedness and response, networking and partnership building, as well as innovation, knowledge management, and capacity building. The WASH Officer will play a vital role in ensuring that WASH services are effectively delivered to communities, particularly in vulnerable and crisis-affected areas, thereby making a significant difference in the lives of children and families.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WASH Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties including:

• Programme Development and Planning: Collaborating with stakeholders to develop WASH programmes that align with UNICEF's strategic objectives.
• Programme Management: Overseeing the implementation of WASH projects, ensuring they meet established goals and objectives.
• Monitoring and Delivery of Results: Regularly assessing programme outcomes and making necessary adjustments to improve effectiveness.
• Technical and Operational Support: Providing guidance and support to field staff and partners in the implementation of WASH initiatives.
• Humanitarian WASH Preparedness and Response: Developing and executing plans for emergency WASH interventions in crisis situations.
• Networking and Partnership Building: Establishing and maintaining relationships with government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations to enhance WASH service delivery.
• Innovation and Knowledge Management: Promoting innovative approaches to WASH programming and sharing best practices within the organization and with external partners.
• Capacity Building: Training and mentoring staff and partners to strengthen their capabilities in WASH programming and implementation.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the WASH Officer position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• An advanced university degree in public health, social sciences, behavior change communication, sanitary engineering, or a related technical field.
• Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field combined with two additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• A minimum of two years of professional work experience in WASH-related programmes, particularly in developing countries, is required.
• Strong technical skills in planning, implementing, and monitoring WASH projects, including budgeting and resource allocation.
• Experience in rural and urban water supply system design and operation, including knowledge of solar-powered systems and sanitation technologies.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and database management is essential.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary for effective reporting and community engagement.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced university degree in fields such as public health, social sciences, behavior change communication, sanitary engineering, or another relevant technical field. A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, combined with two additional years of professional experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additional relevant post-graduate courses that complement the main degree are considered a strong asset.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of professional work experience in WASH-related programmes, particularly in developing countries. Relevant experience at the country level, especially in development, fragile settings, and humanitarian contexts, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record in managing WASH projects and initiatives effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
The WASH Officer position is a full-time role based in Taunggyi, Myanmar. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a wide range of benefits, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and abuse. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and medical clearance is required for appointments. The position may also be subject to inoculation requirements, including against COVID-19.