SSA Consultant (Vehicle Location Tracking System)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger. WFP's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, which guide its operations and interactions with partners and beneficiaries. WFP has received numerous accolades for its work, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its commitment to humanitarian principles and the importance of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security in global peace efforts.

Job Overview:
The SSA Consultant for the Vehicle Location Tracking System (VLTS) will play a crucial role in the implementation of this system across seven North-Eastern states of India. This position requires a blend of technical expertise and project management skills to ensure the successful rollout of the VLTS, which is essential for enhancing the tracking of Public Distribution System (PDS) foodgrains. The consultant will work closely with the WFP Country Office and the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) to customize solutions, review existing processes, and coordinate with state governments. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing project requirements while ensuring that the VLTS is operationalized effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical support for the development and implementation of the VLTS, ensuring effective coordination with state governments for its rollout across Assam, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Assist in the overall development of the VLTS application and dashboard to enhance tracking capabilities for PDS foodgrains.
• Design and implement strategies aimed at improving supply chain performance, reducing costs, and enhancing responsiveness within the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
• Manage project milestones by coordinating with state-level Nodal Officers and ensuring regular monitoring and reporting.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and official correspondence as required by DFPD and WFP.
• Develop concept notes, proposals, and project plans, assessing financial feasibility and mapping resources for state-specific deployments.
• Provide technical assistance for system improvements through detailed assessments and reviews, integrating the VLTS platform with other systems.
• Conduct data analysis of PDS supply chain networks to enhance tracking efficiency and make actionable recommendations based on program status and performance.
• Prepare training materials and conduct capacity-building sessions for PDS stakeholders to ensure effective use of the VLTS tool and dashboard. 1
• Compile relevant data and create detailed technical specifications for all components of the solution, sharing insights with WFP Country Office Programme Officers for analysis and representation. 1
• Perform any other related duties as required by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a post-secondary certificate in a relevant field such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Computer Applications, Mathematics, Statistics, or Business Administration. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with a proven ability to manage stakeholders and build rapport to achieve project goals. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Candidates should also exhibit maturity and presence to effectively engage with senior government officials.

Educational Background:
Completion of secondary school education is mandatory, along with a post-secondary certificate in a relevant discipline. This educational background is crucial for understanding the technical aspects of the VLTS and for effectively contributing to the project's success.

Experience:
Candidates should have 1-4 years of progressively responsible professional experience in large-scale technology or e-governance solutions, preferably with government or development agencies. Experience in logistics and supply chain operations, particularly with GIS mapping and GPS-based tracking systems or IoT solutions, is highly desirable. Familiarity with Management Information Systems (MIS) design, development, and data-driven decision-making is also important. The ability to work independently with minimal supervision in dynamic and ambiguous situations is required.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English and Hindi is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English and Hindi are essential for effective communication within the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to Indian nationals only and is offered under a Special Services Agreement for a duration of 11 months, with the possibility of renewal based on project requirements. The consultant will be stationed at the Department of Food & Public Distribution, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi. The salary for this position is INR 72,000 per month, and the employee will be covered by medical benefits as per WFP's plan. All tax liabilities for payments from this contract will be the responsibility of the consultant. The recruitment process will include a written test for screening candidates, and only those under serious consideration will be contacted. WFP promotes diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.