WASH Technical Assistants (Emergency) – 2 Positions

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established in 194

• Its mission is to improve international protection of refugees and internally displaced persons while providing humanitarian assistance without discrimination based on race, nationality, or political views. NRC has been operational in South Sudan since 2004, focusing on core activities such as WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), Education, Shelter & Settlement, Cash and Markets, and Information, Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA). The organization is guided by its core values of Dedication, Innovation, Inclusivity, and Accountability, which shape its actions and relationships with affected populations and stakeholders. NRC employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian principles and the universal declaration of human rights in its work.

Job Overview:
The WASH Technical Assistants will play a crucial role in providing technical guidance and supervision for the implementation of emergency WASH infrastructure construction and rehabilitation activities in Uror County. This position requires a hands-on approach to ensure the timely delivery of safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene promotion activities in accordance with international humanitarian standards. The WASH Assistants will collaborate closely with Project Officers and other assistants to ensure the quality of the WASH program and assist in the planning and design of future projects. The role involves conducting assessments, supervising construction activities, engaging with the community, and ensuring compliance with NRC policies and global technical benchmarks. The WASH Assistants will also be responsible for monitoring and reporting on project progress, ensuring that the needs of vulnerable groups are prioritized in all activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct rapid and detailed WASH needs assessments in newly affected or displaced communities, including KAP surveys and baseline data collection to inform project design. Identify vulnerable groups to ensure inclusivity and safe access to WASH facilities.
• Supervise the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of emergency sanitation facilities, oversee water supply activities, and monitor daily field works executed by contractors and community workers. Ensure adherence to NRC policies and government standards.
• Facilitate community engagement and mobilization for the proper use and maintenance of WASH infrastructure, train community volunteers, and lead WASH awareness activities in targeted locations.
• Create and maintain relationships with community members, implementing partners, and local authorities, coordinate material deliveries, and provide logistical support to field teams.
• Track daily/weekly progress of activities, compile field data into reports, and maintain updated documentation and filing systems at the field office.
• Implement any other tasks assigned by the WASH Officer or other supervisors as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Public Health, Environmental Health, or a related technical field. They should have a minimum of 1 to 2 years of hands-on experience in humanitarian or recovery contexts, specifically working on emergency WASH projects. Proven knowledge and experience in community mobilization, training, and collaboration with local stakeholders are essential. Familiarity with local contexts, emergency protocols, and SPHERE minimum standards is also required. Strong technical drafting skills, excellent interpersonal and communication abilities, and proficiency in computer applications, including MS Office and mapping/design tools, are necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Civil Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Public Health, Environmental Health, or other related technical disciplines. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the technical aspects of WASH infrastructure and ensuring effective implementation of projects in emergency settings.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 1 to 2 years of relevant experience in humanitarian or recovery contexts, particularly in emergency WASH projects. This experience should include hands-on work in community mobilization, training, and collaboration with local stakeholders. Familiarity with local contexts and emergency protocols, as well as knowledge of water quality testing and SPHERE minimum standards, is highly valued. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to work independently and under pressure in challenging operational environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of local or national languages relevant to the operational area is considered an asset, as it facilitates effective communication with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 5 months, with the possibility of extension based on project needs and funding availability. The role is field-based, requiring high mobility to various emergency locations within Uror County. Candidates should be prepared to work in insecure environments and demonstrate flexibility and time management skills. The position is full-time, and NRC is committed to recruiting individuals who are dedicated to humanitarian principles and the well-being of affected populations.