Programme Manager (PM) Infection Prevention Control (IPC) WASH

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in August 2007, Mercy Corps has been operational in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for over 15 years. The organization employs approximately 300 national and expatriate staff and operates in more than 40 countries worldwide. Mercy Corps focuses on providing bold solutions to help communities overcome adversity and build stronger, more resilient societies. In the DRC, Mercy Corps has reached over half a million people through integrated programs that ensure equitable access to improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, economic development, and social cohesion initiatives.

Job Overview:
The IPC/WASH Program Manager is responsible for leading the planning, implementation, and quality delivery of Mercy Corps' Ebola-related WASH and IPC programming in the DRC. This role involves translating technical standards into practical work plans, supervising site activities, and ensuring that WASH/IPC interventions are delivered effectively and in accordance with Ebola response standards. The Program Manager will manage a team of WASH/IPC staff, oversee infrastructure construction and rehabilitation, and ensure that all logistical and procurement processes are coordinated to maintain project timelines. The position requires strong leadership skills, the ability to mentor and develop field staff, and effective communication with various stakeholders, including local partners and health authorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The IPC/WASH Program Manager's duties include developing and managing work plans for IPC/WASH activities, participating in multi-sectoral needs assessments, collaborating with stakeholders on design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, supervising construction and rehabilitation of WASH infrastructure, providing technical guidance for hygiene promotion, managing procurement requests for supplies, and ensuring compliance with Mercy Corps' policies. The role also involves direct management of field staff, facilitating coordination with local health facilities and authorities, and maintaining program quality through monitoring and reporting. The Program Manager will represent Mercy Corps in relevant coordination forums and ensure that community engagement is integrated into all activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in WASH/environmental engineering, project management, or a related field. A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in managing WASH/IPC or emergency water and sanitation programs is required, including field-level implementation and staff supervision. Experience with NGO WASH strategies and responding to disease outbreaks such as Ebola or cholera is preferred. Strong technical knowledge of WASH infrastructure design and construction, as well as familiarity with hygiene promotion practices, is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate strong training and mentoring skills, with the ability to build the capacity of field staff and community structures.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as WASH/environmental engineering, project management, or a related discipline is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the technical aspects of WASH and IPC programming, as well as the management skills needed to oversee complex projects in challenging environments.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5-7 years of relevant experience in managing WASH/IPC programs, particularly in emergency contexts. Candidates should have a proven track record of implementing WASH strategies at the field or national level and experience working with various donors and funders. Previous experience in responding to disease outbreaks, particularly in the context of Ebola or cholera, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Professional proficiency in French is required, while English language skills are strongly desired. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages is crucial for collaboration with local partners, stakeholders, and team members.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bunia, DRC, which is currently experiencing insecurity due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak. The role requires a significant amount of travel (approximately 30%) to field offices in challenging environments. Team members will live in group accommodations with limited freedom of movement and access to medical services. The position may involve working evenings and weekends due to the emergency context. Mercy Corps is committed to ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate time to personal and professional development activities. The organization values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer, ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment for all team members.