Humanitarian Mine Action Team Member (Mechanical Operator)

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency established with the mission to protect, advocate for, and promote durable solutions for populations affected by displacement. Since its inception, DRC has been dedicated to addressing the needs of vulnerable communities, and it has been operational in Ukraine since 201

• Currently, DRC employs over 600 staff members in Ukraine and is planning to scale up its operations in 2024 to enhance emergency responses across various sectors, including Protection, Livelihoods, Shelter/NFIs, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding, particularly focusing on humanitarian mine action. The organization aims to implement direct interventions, support duty bearers, and collaborate with civil society organizations (CSOs) to adapt its durable solutions portfolio to the evolving context of the region.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Mine Action Team Member (Mechanical Operator) plays a crucial role in supporting DRC’s Humanitarian Mine Action operations in Kharkiv. This position involves the safe operation and maintenance of the GCS 200 mechanical clearance machine during demining operations. The Mechanical Operator is responsible for ensuring that the machine is operated safely and effectively, adhering to the manufacturer’s operation handbook, DRC HDP Ukraine GCS 200 Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and safety regulations pertaining to minefields and hazardous areas. The role requires a proactive approach to daily checks and maintenance, ensuring that the machine is in optimal working condition before operations commence. The Mechanical Operator will work closely with the Humanitarian Mine Action team and report directly to the Humanitarian Mine Action Technical Field Manager, contributing to the overall success of the mine action program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Humanitarian Mine Action Team Member (Mechanical Operator) include: conducting scheduled daily maintenance on the GCS 200 machine; physically checking for abnormalities on the machine at the maintenance area; assessing the overall functionality of the GCS 200 machine in a designated test area prior to daily operations; assisting the GCS 200 Mechanic during breakdowns, scheduled service, or maintenance; ensuring that daily log sheets and logbooks are accurately maintained within the GCS 200 workshop container or mobile workshop; informing the Mechanical Technical Advisor about the machine's capabilities in relation to terrain or environmental challenges; adhering to minefield and hazardous area rules and regulations; operating the GCS 200 machine safely according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and DRC SOP; immediately reporting any performance abnormalities to the MMC Team Lead and MDT Mechanic; maintaining radio contact with the MMC Team Lead; complying with DRC SOPs, safety procedures, internal regulations, and the DRC Code of Conduct; and performing any other duties assigned by the line manager that contribute to achieving DRC objectives.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the position of Mechanical Operator, candidates must possess at least 3 years of practical experience as a machine operator or mechanic for various types of mechanical demining machines, earth-moving machinery, or heavy-duty vehicles such as bulldozers, front-end loaders, excavators, backhoes, and Bobcats. Verified training certificates demonstrating previous work experience and knowledge are required. Candidates must also be willing and able to complete a minimum of 21 days of DRC HDP training on the operation and maintenance of the GCS 200 machine. A light/heavy-duty verified and approved driving license, with a minimum category B, is mandatory. Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in Ukrainian is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes at least a high school education or equivalent. Additional qualifications such as heavy-duty mechanic skills are desirable, as well as experience working on a Humanitarian Mine Action program.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of practical experience as a machine operator or mechanic, specifically with mechanical demining machines or heavy-duty vehicles. This experience should demonstrate a solid technical awareness and the ability to work safely and effectively in challenging field conditions.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is proficiency in Ukrainian, including good speaking, reading, and writing skills. A beginning level of English is considered desirable but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to a contract length of a 3-month probation period, with the possibility of extension based on performance and available funding. The position is classified under Band J (national contract) and is designated for the duty station in Kharkiv. The start date is as soon as possible, and the salary and conditions of employment will be determined in accordance with the Terms of Employment for National Staff of the Danish Refugee Council, starting from EUR 1,080 gross per month, depending on experience and qualifications. This position is open to national applicants only. Candidates are required to upload a cover letter and an updated CV (no longer than four pages) in English, as applications sent via email will not be considered. The closing date for applications is 06 November 2026, and candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as interviews may be conducted on a rolling basis. DRC reserves the right to select a candidate before the vacancy close date once a suitable candidate has been identified.