Department: Wash/ Programs
Reports To: Program Manager
Contract Type: Fixed-Term
Contract Duration: 7 Months
POSITION SUMMARY
The Technical and Training Manager will provide overall technical leadership, oversight, and quality assurance for all solar energy and WASH components of the project. A key focus of the role is to build local capacity by developing and implementing comprehensive training programs for community members, local technicians, and project staff, ensuring the sustainability and long-term impact of the interventions.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical Leadership and Oversight:
- Lead the technical assessment, design, and implementation of solar energy systems (e.g., solar home systems, solar-powered water pumps, community solar mini-grids).
- Lead the technical design, rehabilitation, and construction of WASH infrastructure, including boreholes, hand-dug wells, water distribution networks, and sanitation facilities.
- Develop and review technical specifications, Bills of Quantities (BoQs), and drawings for all solar and WASH infrastructure.
- Supervise and monitor contractors and field teams to ensure all work complies with national and international technical standards, safety codes, and project specifications.
- Conduct regular field inspections to monitor progress, identify technical challenges, and propose effective solutions.
Training and Capacity Building:
- Conduct a Training Needs Assessment (TNA) for project staff, local government WASH departments, community water management committees, and potential solar technicians.
- Develop, contextualize, and implement comprehensive training modules and manuals on:
- Operation and Maintenance (O&M) of solar energy systems.
- O&M of WASH infrastructure (pumps, handpumps, pipe systems).
- Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS).
- Hygiene Promotion techniques and behavior change communication.
- Basic business skills for Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) or micro-enterprises related to WASH and energy.
- Train and mentor a team of \"Community-Based Technicians\" to perform basic repairs and maintenance on solar and WASH facilities.
- Establish a system for ongoing technical support and refresher training for beneficiaries.
Project Management and Reporting:
- Develop detailed work plans for the technical and training components of the project.
- Manage the technical and training budget, ensuring efficient and timely utilization of resources.
- Prepare high-quality tec hnical reports on project activities, outputs, and outcomes for the Project Director and donors.
- Ensure all technical data (e.g., water quality test results, solar system performance data) is accurately collected, managed, and reported.
Coordination and Collaboration:
- Liaise with relevant state government ministries (e.g., Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources, Ministry of Rural Development, Akwa Ibom Water Company Ltd).
- Coordinate with other NGOs and UN agencies working in the WASH and Energy sectors in Akwa Ibom to avoid duplication and share best practices.
- Represent the organization in technical working groups and clusters.
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning:
- Work with the M&E team to develop technical indicators and tools to monitor the performance and functionality of installed systems.
- Document lessons learned, success stories, and best practices related to the integrated Solarization and WASH approach.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education
A Bachelor\'s or Master\'s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Water Resources Management, or a directly related field.
Experience
- Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in technically managing and implementing WASH programs, including hardware and software components.
- Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in the design, installation, and maintenance of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
- Demonstrated experience in developing training curricula and conducting hands-on technical training for diverse audiences, including low-literacy groups.
Desirable:
- Professional certification in solar energy (e.g., from NABCEP or a recognized institution).
- Previous work experience in Akwa Ibom State or the South-South region of Nigeria.
- Experience with community mobilization and participatory approaches (e.g., PHAST, CLTS).
- Experience in gender mainstreaming and ensuring the participation of women and vulnerable groups in technical training.
Personal Competencies
- Excellent leadership and mentoring skills.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team and live in a remote area.
- High level of integrity and commitment to accountability.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical Environment
- Office-based with regular field visits 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
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Contract Terms
This position is subject to Nigerian Labour Act 2004 and organizational employment policies:
- Probationary Period: 1 months
- Working Hours: 40 hours per week, 8 hours per day (standard humanitarian sector practice)
Benefits Package
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Housing allowance
- Transportation allowance for field visits
SAFEGUARDING AND COMPLIANCE
Child Protection
- This position requires adherence to organizational child safeguarding policies
- Background checks and reference verification required
- Commitment to creating safe environments for children and vulnerable adults
Code of Conduct
- Adherence to humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence
- Compliance with anti-corruption and fraud prevention policies
- Respect for beneficiary dignity and cultural sensitivity
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