Field Assistant at Save The Slum Initiative

POSITION SUMMARY

The Field Assistant will provide critical support to the project team in the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of all field-level activities. The role is essential for ensuring the smooth execution of project work plans directly within the communities and for maintaining a strong link between the project and the beneficiaries.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Field Implementation Support:

• Provide direct support to the Community Officer and Technical Manager during all community mobilization, sensitization, and training sessions.
• Assist in the distribution of project materials (e.g., hygiene kits, information/education/communication (IEC) materials, minor toolkits for technicians).
• Support the monitoring of construction and installation sites for solar systems and WASH infrastructure under the guidance of the Technical Manager.
• Help set up venues and logistics for community meetings and training workshops.
• Conduct basic community messaging on project goals, beneficiary selection criteria, and maintenance responsibilities.

Data Collection and Reporting:

• Assist in conducting baseline, endline, and post-distribution monitoring surveys using digital data collection tools (e.g., Kobo Collect, ODK) where applicable.
• Collect basic quantitative and qualitative data from the field, such as attendance lists at meetings, photos of activities, and community feedback.
• Support the regular monitoring of project sites to track the functionality of solar lights, water points, and sanitation facilities.
• Submit daily and weekly activity reports to the supervisor.

Community Liaison and Engagement:

• Act as a daily point of contact for community members, listening to their feedback and concerns and channeling them to the Community Officer.
• Assist in facilitating meetings of the Community Project Management Committees (CPMCs) and WASHCOMs.
• Support hygiene promotion activities by demonstrating good practices (e.g., handwashing, water treatment) to households.

Logistics and Administrative Support:

• Support the coordination of project vehicles/motorcycles for field movements.
• Assist in the verification of beneficiaries and the compilation of beneficiary lists.
• Perform any other related duties as assigned by the supervisor to ensure the success of the project.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A National Diploma, SSCE/GCE, or equivalent. Additional certification in a relevant field (e.g., community development, engineering) is an advantage.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in a similar field-based support role with an NGO, community-based organization, or government extension program.
• Resident of Akwa Ibom State, preferably from or familiar with the specific Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the project.
• Ability to speak the local language (Ibibio, Annang, or Oron) fluently is mandatory.
• Basic literacy and numeracy skills. Ability to read and write in English is required.
• Physical fitness and willingness to undertake extensive field work, often in remote rural areas and in various weather conditions.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Honest, reliable, and trustworthy.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in WASH or Energy-related projects.
• Experience in using a smartphone for basic data collection (e.g., taking photos, filling simple forms).
• Valid motorcycle riding license (Class A) and proven ability to ride is a strong advantage.

Personal Competencies

• High level of integrity and commitment to community service.
• Team player with a positive and pro-active attitude.
• Ability to follow instructions and learn on the job.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for local traditions.
• Patience and good problem-solving skills in the field.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Physical Environment
• Field -based to remote locations
• Occasional work in challenging environments with limited infrastructure
• May require work outside normal business hours for system maintenance
• Health and Safety
• Adherence to organizational security protocols
• Compliance with health and safety procedures in field locations
• Basic first aid training may be required