Project Driver at Taimako Community Development

Job Purpose

• The Project Driver will be responsible for providing safe and efficient transportation services for project staff, goods, and materials between project sites across Yobe and Borno States.
• The driver plays a critical role in supporting the successful implementation of project activities by ensuring that all transportation needs are met in a timely and secure manner.
• The position requires excellent driving skills, a good understanding of vehicle maintenance, and familiarity with the local terrain and road conditions, especially in conflict-affected or post-crisis areas.

Key Responsibilities
Safe and Efficient Transportation:

• Transport project staff and visitors: Ensure the safe transportation of project staff, visitors, and partners to and from various locations within Yobe and Borno states as per the project’s requirements.
• Deliver goods and materials: Safely transport project materials, equipment, and documents to designated locations, including rural and remote areas, ensuring timely delivery for project implementation.
• Plan efficient routes: Prioritize and plan daily driving routes to ensure timely arrival at destinations, taking into account local traffic conditions, security risks, and road conditions.

Vehicle Maintenance and Safety:

• Conduct routine vehicle checks: Perform daily and weekly vehicle checks to ensure that the vehicle is in good working condition, including monitoring fluid levels, tire pressure, brakes, lights, and battery.
• Ensure vehicle cleanliness: Keep the project vehicle clean, both inside and outside, at all times, and ensure that all necessary equipment (such as first aid kits and emergency tools) is available and in working order.
• Report vehicle malfunctions: Immediately report any mechanical problems, damages, or needed repairs to the Logistics Officer or relevant authority to prevent breakdowns and ensure that repairs are done promptly.
• Schedule and track vehicle servicing: Ensure the project vehicle receives regular servicing and maintenance as required, maintaining accurate records of service dates, repairs, and spare parts replacements.

Adherence to Safety and Security Protocols:

• Follow road safety rules: Strictly adhere to local traffic laws and project-specific driving rules, including the wearing of seat belts, adherence to speed limits, and avoiding the use of mobile phones while driving.
• Implement security protocols: Follow all security protocols as outlined by the organization when driving in sensitive or high-risk areas. This includes adherence to curfews, avoiding prohibited zones, and reporting any security concerns to the appropriate authority.
• Escort duties: Provide driving services for project personnel in high-risk areas, ensuring that appropriate security measures (such as route planning and liaison with security officers) are taken before any trips.

Logistical Support:

• Assist with loading and unloading: Help load and unload goods, materials, or equipment from the project vehicle, ensuring that items are securely stowed to prevent damage during transport.
• Manage vehicle documents: Maintain proper vehicle documentation, including registration, insurance, and inspection certificates, ensuring that these documents are up to date and available upon request.
• Keep vehicle logs: Accurately maintain a vehicle logbook to record all trips, mileage, fuel consumption, and maintenance activities. Submit the logbook to the supervisor regularly for verification.

Support to Project Activities:

• Field support: Assist field staff during project activities by providing transportation to remote project sites, supporting the movement of materials, and ensuring timely arrival at meeting points or event venues.
• Emergency support: Be available for emergency driving duties, such as transporting personnel or materials during unexpected situations or project emergencies.

Community Engagement and Representation:

• Respectful interaction: Engage with community members respectfully while providing transportation services, representing the organization in a positive manner, and maintaining professionalism at all times.
• Cultural sensitivity: Ensure awareness of and respect for cultural norms and practices in the communities served by the project.

Qualifications and Skills
Education and Experience:

• Minimum education: National diploma or equivalent.
• Professional driving experience: At least 3-5 years of experience as a professional driver, preferably with an NGO or humanitarian organization working in conflict or post-crisis settings.
• Valid driver’s license: Possession of a valid Nigerian driver’s license with an excellent driving record.
• Knowledge of the region: Familiarity with the road networks and local terrain in Yobe and Borno states, including high-risk or conflict-prone areas.
• Experience with 4x4 vehicles: Demonstrated experience driving 4x4 vehicles and other off-road vehicles in rural, rugged, or difficult terrain.

Technical Skills:

• Vehicle maintenance knowledge: Basic mechanical skills to perform minor repairs and routine vehicle checks.
• Logbook and documentation management: Proficiency in maintaining accurate vehicle logs and tracking mileage, fuel, and maintenance needs.
• Security awareness: Strong awareness of security and risk management practices, particularly in volatile or conflict-sensitive areas.

Soft Skills:

• Good communication skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with supervisors, colleagues, and community members.
• Punctuality and reliability: A proven track record of being reliable, punctual, and able to manage time effectively to meet transportation schedules.
• Problem-solving skills: Ability to remain calm and act quickly in case of emergencies, breakdowns, or unexpected challenges on the road.
• Team player: Ability to work collaboratively with project staff, field teams, and community members to support project activities.

Work Environment:

• This position will require frequent travel within Yobe and Borno states, including remote and conflict-affected areas. The driver must be prepared to work in challenging environments, with long hours of driving and occasional weekend or evening duties as required by the project.