Wash and Shelter Project Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that assists people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ approximately 15,000 staff members and operates in 40 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of individuals affected by crises, focusing on the rights and needs of refugees and internally displaced persons. NRC is recognized for its commitment to high-quality aid and advocacy for the rights of vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Wash and Shelter Project Manager position at NRC in Asosa, Ethiopia, is a pivotal role aimed at implementing and overseeing the WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) project portfolio. The primary responsibility of this position is to ensure that the WASH projects are executed effectively, adhering to NRC's policies and donor requirements. The manager will be responsible for line management of project staff, contributing to the development of strategies, and ensuring high technical quality in project implementation. This role also involves regular reporting to the Area Manager and WASH Specialist, as well as engaging in needs assessments and contextual analysis to inform project development and execution. The position requires a proactive approach to scaling up WASH operational capacity and integrating protection measures into project activities, ensuring that the needs of the affected populations are met comprehensively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Wash and Shelter Project Manager include:

• Line management of project staff, ensuring effective team performance and adherence to NRC policies.
• Development and implementation of WASH project strategies, including contributing to country and area-level strategies.
• Coordination and management of WASH project activities, budgets, and documentation in alignment with proposals and donor requirements.
• Ensuring high technical quality in project implementation and providing technical direction to project staff.
• Regularly reporting progress to the Area Manager and WASH Specialist, ensuring transparency and accountability in project execution.
• Conducting needs assessments to identify protection risks and needs, and providing input for proposal development.
• Developing and monitoring detailed project work plans, spending plans, and M&E plans for WASH projects.
• Scaling up WASH operational capacity and ensuring high standards in project implementation.
• Monitoring the technical quality of WASH projects and maintaining transparency in implementation processes. 1
• Supporting the integration of cash-based interventions and market-based approaches where appropriate. 1
• Ensuring the mainstreaming of protection in project implementation in line with NRC's Protection Policy. 1
• Contributing to WASH-specific contextual analysis and contingency planning.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Wash and Shelter Project Manager position should possess the following qualifications:

• A strong understanding of WASH principles and practices, with a focus on humanitarian contexts.
• Proven experience in project management, particularly in WASH or related sectors.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide project staff.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with donor requirements and reporting standards in the humanitarian sector.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Commitment to NRC's values and principles, particularly in relation to safeguarding and protection.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background, typically a degree in a field related to WASH, public health, environmental science, or a related discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in project management or humanitarian response are advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in project management, specifically in WASH or related sectors. Experience working in humanitarian contexts, particularly in conflict-affected areas, is highly desirable. Proven track record of managing teams and implementing projects in challenging environments is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the project area is an advantage and can enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Asosa, Ethiopia, with frequent travel required (approximately 50% of the time). The contract is national and initially set for 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on project needs and funding availability. NRC offers a competitive salary and benefits package, aligned with the national salary scale. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates.