Short-Term Assignment-- Acting WASH and Infrastructure TA II

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 across more than 100 countries. CRS operates various programs including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization has a significant presence in Ukraine, particularly after the escalation of conflict in 2022, where it has expanded its operations to assist over 500,000 people through emergency and recovery strategies. The Moldova and Ukraine Country Office focuses on strengthening local partnerships and enhancing the capacity of local organizations to maximize impact.

Job Overview:
The Acting WASH and Infrastructure Technical Advisor II will be responsible for providing technical support on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) as well as energy and infrastructure for Caritas Ukraine under the USG DOS funded program, Multi-Sector Assistance to War-Affected People in Ukraine. This role involves offering technical advice and guidance on design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation, ensuring adherence to program quality principles, technical standards, donor guidelines, and industry best practices. The advisor will play a crucial role in advancing the delivery of high-quality programming aimed at supporting vulnerable and conflict-affected populations in Ukraine. The position requires strong relationship management skills and technical expertise to effectively collaborate with CRS and partner teams.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities include providing technical solutions for strategic planning and program design, leading the technical design and review of specifications and drawings for WASH infrastructure, offering on-site technical guidance, monitoring construction works, and ensuring compliance with national and humanitarian standards. The advisor will also support partners in procurement and construction monitoring, develop strategies for WASH programming, contribute to business development efforts, strengthen the capacity of staff and partners through training, and promote knowledge management by analyzing program data and sharing best practices. Additionally, the advisor will establish relationships with donors and participate in coordination forums to enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Water, or Environmental Engineering, along with a minimum of eight years of relevant international experience in advisory or management roles, ideally within an international NGO. They should have at least three years of experience in WASH programming interventions and a proven track record in providing technical assistance and developing successful proposals for donor funding. Strong relationship management skills and the ability to influence stakeholders are essential.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field is required, with a Master’s degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Water, or Environmental Engineering being preferred. This educational background is crucial for understanding the technical aspects of WASH and infrastructure projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of eight years of relevant international working experience, with progressive responsibilities in advisory or management roles. Candidates should have substantial experience in WASH programming, including technical assistance and proposal development for donor funding. Experience in mentoring and capacity building is also highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both written and verbal) is mandatory, while knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian is considered an advantage. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a short-term assignment lasting 6-8 weeks, scheduled between January and March. It is contingent on funding confirmation and may involve up to 30% field travel within Ukraine, primarily to partner offices. The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates should be prepared to work in a challenging environment. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S. based staff, and the work culture is collaborative and mission-driven, focused on improving the lives of the poor globally. The organization is committed to safeguarding program participants and ensuring a safe working environment.