National Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in 190 countries and territories, focusing on the welfare of children and their rights. The organization aims to reach the most disadvantaged children, providing them with opportunities to fulfill their potential and lead healthy lives. UNICEF has been active in Zimbabwe since 1982, working closely with the government and various ministries to support socioeconomic development and ensure access to quality education and health services for all children.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant position at UNICEF Zimbabwe is focused on providing technical oversight and quality assurance for borehole drilling and mechanization of schools in drought-affected areas. The consultant will be responsible for supervising the entire process from mobilization to completion, ensuring that all activities meet the required standards. This role is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by schools in accessing safe water, which is essential for health and education. The consultant will work closely with World Vision and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the project, contributing to the overall goal of improving water supply in schools and communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key assignments, including: 1) Milestone supervision of mobilization and borehole construction, ensuring that all activities are carried out according to the project plan. 2) Conducting geophysical surveys and reviewing reports to determine suitable drilling sites. 3) Overseeing the drilling process and ensuring quality assurance at each stage, including test pumping and water quality sampling. 4) Documenting and certifying the completion of borehole construction, including wellhead construction. 5) Holding regular meetings with World Vision to provide updates, feedback, and capacity building. 6) Preparing comprehensive technical reports detailing the performance of each borehole and recommendations for sustainable operation. 7) Ensuring that all deliverables are met within the specified timelines and maintaining communication with all stakeholders involved in the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of an MSc in Hydrogeology, Water Engineering, Geology, or a related field. They should have at least 5 years of experience in groundwater development, with a proven track record in supervising drilling operations in Zimbabwe. Strong knowledge of geophysical survey methods and interpretation is essential, along with experience in rural WASH and humanitarian water supply. The consultant should also demonstrate strong reporting, GIS/GPS mapping, and data management skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in Hydrogeology, Water Engineering, Geology, or a closely related field. This advanced education is necessary to ensure that the consultant has the technical knowledge and skills required to effectively oversee the drilling and water supply processes.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in groundwater development, particularly in supervising drilling operations. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the challenges faced in rural water supply and experience working in fragile settings or humanitarian contexts. Familiarity with Zimbabwe's groundwater regulations and protocols is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of Shona and Ndebele is highly desirable. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is expected to be full-time and will involve a contract duration of approximately 85 days. The consultant will be responsible for their own tax liabilities and must ensure that they have valid visa and health insurance for the duration of the contract. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. UNICEF emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its objectives, including discrimination and abuse. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds.