JOB DETAILS:
Job Summary:
The Project Assistant - WASH will play a pivotal role in assessing and addressing the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene needs of targeted communities. This position is integral to the promotion of sustainable WASH practices and the enhancement of community development initiatives.

Key Responsibilities
Assess WASH Needs
• Conduct comprehensive assessments of the WASH and Environmental Sanitation needs of the targeted communities to inform project planning and implementation and participate in designing appropriate intervention strategies.

Awareness and Education
• Plan, organize, and ensure effective implementation of community awareness programs on Water and Sanitation
• Lead awareness campaigns on the project’s objectives and donor requirements, ensuring community understanding and buy-in.

Stakeholder Engagement
• Liaise with local stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, and community leaders, to foster collaborative relationships and align project goals with local development plans.
• Liaise with district technical line departments to develop and enhance community-based management of Water and Sanitation facilities.

Field Monitoring and work Supervision
• Regularly visit project sites to monitor activity progress, identify gaps, and where possible provide on-site guidance to avoid delays
• Ensure quality control on sites by regular and stringent supervision of contractors’ activities in the project areas.

Operation and Maintenance Follow-Up
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of completed water points, ensuring their long-term functionality and impact.
• Work with community structures to ensure regular and routine collection and proper utilization of water user fees, crucial for the maintenance and repair of water facilities.

Operations & Maintenance Plan Development
• Assist community members in developing Operations and Maintenance (O&M) plans for established water points, ensuring their effective management.
• Reporting and publicity
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of periodic work plans, budgets, and status reports.
• Participate in the production of newsletters for the organization.

Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Environmental Science, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• At least 2-3 years’ experience in implementing WASH interventions and Community Development programming.
• Knowledge of participatory approaches and community-based management of WASH facilities.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience in working in rural areas, including WASH infrastructure and construction.
• Fluency in English and Acholi, both written and spoken.

Desired Attributes
• Commitment to community empowerment and sustainable development.
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively in diverse settings.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Willingness to travel frequently to project sites and work in remote areas.
• Ability to ride a motorcycle and possess a valid riding permit.