WASH Project Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent, non-governmental international organization founded in Norway. Established in 1946, NRC operates in over 25 countries worldwide, focusing on assisting displaced populations due to conflicts and disasters. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), NRC has been operational since 2001, implementing programs in various sectors including Education, Rapid Response to Population Movements (RRM), Protection against violence, Shelter, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security, and Livelihoods, as well as Information, Counseling, and Legal Assistance (ICLA). The organization aims to save lives, prevent diseases, promote dignity, and support access to livelihoods while addressing urgent needs and facilitating sustainable solutions. NRC emphasizes equitable access to safe drinking water and appropriate sanitation and hygiene services, particularly in the evolving context of the DRC where needs and challenges in WASH remain significant across the provinces of North Kivu, Ituri, and South Kivu.

Job Overview:
The WASH Project Manager will be responsible for designing, planning, and leading WASH needs assessments, baseline studies, and evaluations, actively contributing to project monitoring and evaluation, including tracking indicators in close collaboration with program teams, the MEL department, and the WASH specialist. The role requires ensuring the quality of WASH activities in targeted areas through regular site visits, ensuring compliance with standards and norms to contribute to the overall excellence of WASH projects. The manager will develop and implement a quality management system for interventions, ensuring alignment with work plans and contractual commitments. Additionally, the role involves preparing budgetary and narrative proposals, managing and monitoring WASH program budgets, and ensuring sustainable systems for the long-term operation and maintenance of water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructures. The WASH Project Manager will also foster constructive cooperation with other NRC programs, local partners, authorities, and other international and local NGOs, promoting synergies between WASH, Shelter, Education, ICLA, and other potential NRC sectors to ensure an integrated and coherent approach.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design, plan, and lead WASH needs assessments and baseline studies, including mid-term and final evaluations, contributing to project monitoring and evaluation.
• Ensure the quality of WASH activities through regular site visits and compliance with standards.
• Develop and implement a quality management system for interventions.
• Prepare budgetary and narrative proposals, including revisions and reports, in collaboration with relevant managers and specialists.
• Manage and monitor WASH program budgets, ensuring alignment with planned activities.
• Establish sustainable systems for the long-term operation and maintenance of WASH infrastructures.
• Collaborate with other NRC programs and local partners to promote integrated approaches.
• Develop partnerships and coordinate with local authorities and humanitarian actors.
• Represent NRC in sectoral coordination meetings as needed. 1
• Liaise with local and national authorities and stakeholders, representing NRC in relevant forums and working groups.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience in implementing WASH projects in humanitarian/recovery contexts.
• At least three years of field experience as a project coordinator in WASH programs, preferably for refugees and internally displaced persons in complex emergency situations.
• Experience in conducting assessments and multi-sectoral analyses.
• Previous work experience in complex and volatile contexts.
• Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position.
• Strong leadership skills and self-awareness.
• Proficiency in written and spoken French; English proficiency is a plus.
• High level of communication, flexibility, and negotiation skills.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in engineering, public health, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in WASH or humanitarian response are advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant field experience in project management, particularly in WASH programs within humanitarian contexts. Experience in managing project cycles, risk management, and staff development is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, with proficiency in English considered an asset. Knowledge of local languages may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
The contract is a fixed-term contract until December 31, 2025, with the possibility of extension. The position is based in Goma, with travel required in the eastern region. NRC offers a chance to align your career with a critical cause, working alongside top professionals in the field. The organization promotes a culture of sharing ideas and taking responsibility, encouraging innovative solutions to complex problems. Candidates are encouraged to apply through the official channels, ensuring all required fields are completed and that applications meet the minimum standards for experience and qualifications.