WASH Technical Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a humanitarian organization that has been operational since 1946, dedicated to helping displaced people and those affected by conflict. NRC's mission is to protect the rights of displaced and vulnerable people, providing them with the necessary assistance and support to rebuild their lives. The organization operates in multiple countries across the globe, focusing on various core competencies including education, shelter, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). NRC is committed to safety and wellbeing, fostering a positive work culture where employees feel valued and empowered. The organization emphasizes accountability, inclusivity, and innovation in its operations, ensuring that all employees adhere to these values in their work and interactions with others. With a dedicated team of professionals, NRC aims to push the boundaries of its program models, particularly in areas such as durable solutions, localization, partnerships, and renewable energy, while advocating for the rights of displaced individuals.

Job Overview:
The WASH Technical Officer position is crucial for the successful implementation of NRC's WASH response strategy in Mozambique. This role involves providing specific technical expertise to ensure that WASH activities are effectively carried out in accordance with NRC's policies and standards. The officer will report to the Multi-Core Competency Coordinator and will supervise WASH Technical Assistants, playing a key role in project implementation. The position requires a proactive individual who can work collaboratively with local actors, including water authorities and NGOs, to develop and implement integrated programming that addresses the needs of the community. The WASH Technical Officer will be responsible for conducting assessments, selecting beneficiaries, and overseeing site assessments, ensuring that all technical matters related to WASH activities are addressed. This role is not only about technical implementation but also about building capacity within the team and fostering partnerships to enhance the effectiveness of the WASH program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WASH Technical Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing technical support to colleagues and developing relevant training programs to ensure compliance with NRC's standards.
• Ensuring adherence to NRC policies, guidelines, and standards throughout the project lifecycle.
• Overseeing the implementation of technical activities related to WASH, including tracking financial expenditures and ensuring quality control.
• Documenting project activities and providing analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">technical analysis and feedback in coordination forums.
• Ensuring that projects target the most vulnerable beneficiaries and exploring innovative ways to assist them.
• Promoting the rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees in line with NRC's advocacy strategy.
• Developing holistic, needs-based programs that may include cash-based interventions and market-based approaches.
• Managing all phases of WASH activities, from beneficiary selection to project evaluation, and ensuring high technical quality.
• Collaborating with local authorities and stakeholders, conducting performance appraisals of WASH Technical Assistants, and participating in training and seminars. 1
• Preparing and compiling WASH reports and ensuring the inclusion of cash-based interventions in strategies and implementation plans. 1
• Traveling to various districts and provinces as required, and maintaining a strong presence in the field to oversee project activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the WASH Technical Officer position should possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• A Bachelor’s degree in water engineering, sanitation, civil engineering, or a related field.
• At least three years of experience in designing and implementing water and sanitation projects, preferably in a humanitarian or recovery context.
• Solid field experience, particularly with returnee or IDP WASH projects, is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to collect and analyze data to inform program implementation priorities.
• Experience in capacity building and training of staff and community members.
• Familiarity with the design, implementation, and maintenance of water supply systems, as well as knowledge of urban WASH standards.
• Understanding of international standards for building materials and testing.
• Proficiency in computer applications, particularly MS Office.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the WASH Technical Officer position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as water engineering, sanitation, civil engineering, or a closely related discipline. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the technical aspects of WASH projects and ensuring that the officer can effectively contribute to the planning, implementation, and evaluation of these initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in the field of water and sanitation, particularly in designing and implementing projects in humanitarian or recovery contexts. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the challenges faced in rural areas and experience working with displaced populations, including returnees and IDPs. Experience in capacity building and training is also essential, as the officer will be responsible for mentoring WASH Technical Assistants and other project staff.

Languages:
Proficiency in Portuguese and English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, having conversational skills in local languages such as Macua, Maconde, and Mwani is considered an advantage, as it can facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is primarily field-based and will require the officer to travel frequently throughout various districts and provinces in Mozambique. The role is full-time and involves working in demanding natural environments and conditions. The WASH Technical Officer will be expected to operate field equipment and engage actively with all project stakeholders. The position may involve a contract duration that aligns with project timelines, and candidates should be prepared to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.