Water and Climate Officer
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Role description
The Water and Climate Officer will provide technical leadership and engineering support to strengthen the performance, resilience, and sustainability of rural water service providers within the North Mecha Universal WASH Programme, with a particular focus on ongoing projects including the From Tap to Policy Project.
The role will focus on improving the efficiency, professionalization, and climate resilience of rural water utilities through system strengthening infrastructure optimization, climate-resilient water safety planning, and enhanced water quality management.
The post holder will work closely with local government, service providers, and communities to enhance operational performance, management capacity, and long-term sustainability of water supply systems. In addition, the role will contribute to the generation of technical evidence and learning to inform programme improvement and policy engagement, in collaboration with the Advocacy and Research function.
Accountabilities
Technical
Provide technical assistance to rural water service providers to improve service efficiency, operational performance, and sustainability.
Support the professionalization and strengthening of water utilities, including system management, asset maintenance, and service delivery models.
Identify system gaps and recommend practical engineering and operational improvements.
Climate-Resilient Systems and Infrastructure
Support the design and implementation of climate-resilient water supply systems, including infrastructure upgrading and adaptation measures.
Conduct system assessments, including vulnerability and resilience analysis, to inform improvement plans.
Promote integration of low-carbon technologies, diversified water sources, and resilient infrastructure solutions.
Support watershed management and water resource protection approaches relevant to water system sustainability.
Water Safety and Quality Management
Lead and support the development and implementation of climate-resilient Water Safety Plans (CR-WSPs).
Strengthen water quality monitoring systems, including use of field-based testing and treatment solutions.
Provide technical support for the establishment, upgrading, and operation of water treatment systems.
Build capacity of service providers on water safety, risk management, and compliance with standards.
Capacity Building and Systems Strengthening
Build technical and managerial capacity of water user associations, operators, and local government staff on:
Operation and maintenance (O&M)
Climate-resilient water management
Utility management and service delivery improvement
Support planning, budgeting, and monitoring processes for sustainable WASH service delivery at woreda level.
Promote sustainable and inclusive delivery service models.
Advocacy, Learning, and Knowledge Management
Generate and document technical evidence on:
Performance and resilience of rural water systems
Service delivery challenges and improvement models
Contribute to learning, documentation, and knowledge sharing within the programme.
Provide technical inputs to advocacy and policy engagement efforts, working closely with the Advocacy and Research Officer.
Networking and Coordination
Collaborate with government institutions, service providers, and community structures to support effective implementation.
Participate in relevant technical platforms and coordination mechanisms at local and sub-national levels.
Support multi-stakeholder engagement around water system sustainability and climate resilience.
Cross-Cutting
Ensuring integration of gender, equity, and social inclusion (GESI) in technical interventions.
Promote environmentally sustainable and climate-sensitive approaches.
Safeguarding, Safety, and Security
Comply with WaterAid’s safeguarding, child protection, and code of conduct policies.
Follow safety and security procedures during fieldwork and operations.
Report any incidents or risks in line with organizational procedures.
Support the integration of safeguarding principles into project activities and assist in monitoring compliance
Other
Perform any other duties as assigned by the line Manager.
Participate in relevant internal processes, meetings, and task forces as required.
Key Competences, Skills, experience, and Knowledge
Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience
BSc degree or higher in, Water Supply and Environmental Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Civil Engineering or other closely related disciplines.
Minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience for MSc holders and 7 years for BSc holders, with strong experience in WASH programming, particularly in rural water supply systems, service delivery, and infrastructure development or rehabilitation within development or resilience-focused projects.
Proven experience in providing technical and engineering support to water supply systems, including system design, upgrading, operation and maintenance (O&M), and sustainability of rural service providers (utilities/WUAs).
Demonstrated experience in strengthening and professionalizing rural water service providers, including improving operational performance, asset management, and service delivery models.
Strong understanding of climate-resilient WASH approaches, water safety planning (preferably CR-WSP), water quality management, and water resource sustainability.
Good knowledge of project cycle management, system strengthening approaches, and integration of climate adaptation into water supply services.
Hands-on experience in water quality monitoring and treatment systems, and familiarity with relevant national and international standards.
Results-oriented, with strong analytical, problem-solving, teamwork, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Familiarity with WaterAid systems, policies, and Quality Programme Standards is an added advantage.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Amharic.
Competencies
Should have competency in WaterAid common approaches to work including partnerships, convening, inclusion, systems strengthening, creating behavioral change, and mainstreaming gender and inclusion of youth.
Cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity.
Ability to work to deadlines and under pressure.
Strong proven delegation, time management and prioritizing skills.
Flexible, patient, and adaptable to a changing environment.
Excellent interpersonal, communication and team building skills.
Effective networking abilities.
Excellent people management capabilities.
Good public speaking ability in English and Amharic.
How To Apply
If you are passionate about resource mobilization and building partnerships that drive lasting change, we encourage you to apply and be part of WaterAid Ethiopia’s mission.
Click on the link below to upload your CV only and Cover Letter.
WA Careers Page
Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in my application?
At WaterAid, we strongly advise against using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides every applicant with an equal opportunity to succeed. We value hearing about your unique experiences and perspectives in your application, and, if shortlisted, during the interview as well.
Pre‑employment screening
To apply for this role, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the respective country. All pre-employment checks will be carried out according to local law and WaterAid’s Safer Recruitment policy. All UK based roles require a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Our benefits
As a global organisation, WaterAid is committed to creating an environment where you can thrive and be yourself at your very best. Alongside our inspiring mission and meaningful work, we offer a range of benefits tailored to each country’s context and policies.
Our People Promise
We will work with passion and focus to make sure everyone everywhere has clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid is a place of purpose – where people have a real commitment and shared responsibility for the impact we have. We are a global community with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, motivated by inspiring, stimulating work. We are determined to be a place where people feel safe and able to contribute their voice and truly live our values.
Equal Opportunities
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, ways of life and status. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, caste, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability status, neurodiversity, age, marital and family status, sexual orientation and gender identity, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation.
Safeguarding
We are committed to protecting everyone we come into contact with. We have a zero- tolerance approach to abuse of power, privilege or trust across our global work, and to any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, bullying, harassment, or exploitation. Safeguarding the people and communities we work with, our staff, volunteers and anyone working on our behalf is our top priority, and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks (which can include counterterrorism, safeguarding and criminal records checks).
Wherever you work in WaterAid and whatever job you do, you’ll be joining a global network determined to reach everyone, everywhere with clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene.
For health, for life, forever
Skills (mandatory):
Time management, Prioritization, Adaptability, Task delegation, Public speaking, Flexability, • Strong coordination and networking skills, Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Work experience:
5-8 years
Apply Now!
The role will focus on improving the efficiency, professionalization, and climate resilience of rural water utilities through system strengthening infrastructure optimization, climate-resilient water safety planning, and enhanced water quality management.
The post holder will work closely with local government, service providers, and communities to enhance operational performance, management capacity, and long-term sustainability of water supply systems. In addition, the role will contribute to the generation of technical evidence and learning to inform programme improvement and policy engagement, in collaboration with the Advocacy and Research function.
Accountabilities
Technical
Provide technical assistance to rural water service providers to improve service efficiency, operational performance, and sustainability.
Support the professionalization and strengthening of water utilities, including system management, asset maintenance, and service delivery models.
Identify system gaps and recommend practical engineering and operational improvements.
Climate-Resilient Systems and Infrastructure
Support the design and implementation of climate-resilient water supply systems, including infrastructure upgrading and adaptation measures.
Conduct system assessments, including vulnerability and resilience analysis, to inform improvement plans.
Promote integration of low-carbon technologies, diversified water sources, and resilient infrastructure solutions.
Support watershed management and water resource protection approaches relevant to water system sustainability.
Water Safety and Quality Management
Lead and support the development and implementation of climate-resilient Water Safety Plans (CR-WSPs).
Strengthen water quality monitoring systems, including use of field-based testing and treatment solutions.
Provide technical support for the establishment, upgrading, and operation of water treatment systems.
Build capacity of service providers on water safety, risk management, and compliance with standards.
Capacity Building and Systems Strengthening
Build technical and managerial capacity of water user associations, operators, and local government staff on:
Operation and maintenance (O&M)
Climate-resilient water management
Utility management and service delivery improvement
Support planning, budgeting, and monitoring processes for sustainable WASH service delivery at woreda level.
Promote sustainable and inclusive delivery service models.
Advocacy, Learning, and Knowledge Management
Generate and document technical evidence on:
Performance and resilience of rural water systems
Service delivery challenges and improvement models
Contribute to learning, documentation, and knowledge sharing within the programme.
Provide technical inputs to advocacy and policy engagement efforts, working closely with the Advocacy and Research Officer.
Networking and Coordination
Collaborate with government institutions, service providers, and community structures to support effective implementation.
Participate in relevant technical platforms and coordination mechanisms at local and sub-national levels.
Support multi-stakeholder engagement around water system sustainability and climate resilience.
Cross-Cutting
Ensuring integration of gender, equity, and social inclusion (GESI) in technical interventions.
Promote environmentally sustainable and climate-sensitive approaches.
Safeguarding, Safety, and Security
Comply with WaterAid’s safeguarding, child protection, and code of conduct policies.
Follow safety and security procedures during fieldwork and operations.
Report any incidents or risks in line with organizational procedures.
Support the integration of safeguarding principles into project activities and assist in monitoring compliance
Other
Perform any other duties as assigned by the line Manager.
Participate in relevant internal processes, meetings, and task forces as required.
Key Competences, Skills, experience, and Knowledge
Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience
BSc degree or higher in, Water Supply and Environmental Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Civil Engineering or other closely related disciplines.
Minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience for MSc holders and 7 years for BSc holders, with strong experience in WASH programming, particularly in rural water supply systems, service delivery, and infrastructure development or rehabilitation within development or resilience-focused projects.
Proven experience in providing technical and engineering support to water supply systems, including system design, upgrading, operation and maintenance (O&M), and sustainability of rural service providers (utilities/WUAs).
Demonstrated experience in strengthening and professionalizing rural water service providers, including improving operational performance, asset management, and service delivery models.
Strong understanding of climate-resilient WASH approaches, water safety planning (preferably CR-WSP), water quality management, and water resource sustainability.
Good knowledge of project cycle management, system strengthening approaches, and integration of climate adaptation into water supply services.
Hands-on experience in water quality monitoring and treatment systems, and familiarity with relevant national and international standards.
Results-oriented, with strong analytical, problem-solving, teamwork, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Familiarity with WaterAid systems, policies, and Quality Programme Standards is an added advantage.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Amharic.
Competencies
Should have competency in WaterAid common approaches to work including partnerships, convening, inclusion, systems strengthening, creating behavioral change, and mainstreaming gender and inclusion of youth.
Cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity.
Ability to work to deadlines and under pressure.
Strong proven delegation, time management and prioritizing skills.
Flexible, patient, and adaptable to a changing environment.
Excellent interpersonal, communication and team building skills.
Effective networking abilities.
Excellent people management capabilities.
Good public speaking ability in English and Amharic.
How To Apply
If you are passionate about resource mobilization and building partnerships that drive lasting change, we encourage you to apply and be part of WaterAid Ethiopia’s mission.
Click on the link below to upload your CV only and Cover Letter.
WA Careers Page
Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in my application?
At WaterAid, we strongly advise against using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides every applicant with an equal opportunity to succeed. We value hearing about your unique experiences and perspectives in your application, and, if shortlisted, during the interview as well.
Pre‑employment screening
To apply for this role, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the respective country. All pre-employment checks will be carried out according to local law and WaterAid’s Safer Recruitment policy. All UK based roles require a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Our benefits
As a global organisation, WaterAid is committed to creating an environment where you can thrive and be yourself at your very best. Alongside our inspiring mission and meaningful work, we offer a range of benefits tailored to each country’s context and policies.
Our People Promise
We will work with passion and focus to make sure everyone everywhere has clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid is a place of purpose – where people have a real commitment and shared responsibility for the impact we have. We are a global community with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, motivated by inspiring, stimulating work. We are determined to be a place where people feel safe and able to contribute their voice and truly live our values.
Equal Opportunities
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, ways of life and status. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, caste, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability status, neurodiversity, age, marital and family status, sexual orientation and gender identity, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation.
Safeguarding
We are committed to protecting everyone we come into contact with. We have a zero- tolerance approach to abuse of power, privilege or trust across our global work, and to any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, bullying, harassment, or exploitation. Safeguarding the people and communities we work with, our staff, volunteers and anyone working on our behalf is our top priority, and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks (which can include counterterrorism, safeguarding and criminal records checks).
Wherever you work in WaterAid and whatever job you do, you’ll be joining a global network determined to reach everyone, everywhere with clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene.
For health, for life, forever
Skills (mandatory):
Time management, Prioritization, Adaptability, Task delegation, Public speaking, Flexability, • Strong coordination and networking skills, Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Work experience:
5-8 years
Apply Now!