Water Expert (WASH & Technical)

Position Title: Water Expert (WASH & Technical)

Organization: CEFA (European Committee for Training and Agriculture)

Nature of Appointment: Fixed term (1 year with extension possibility)

Remuneration: KES 180,000 – 220,000 (Gross)

Location: Nairobi with frequent travel (40%) to West Pokot County

Role Purpose

We are seeking a versatile Water Expert to anchor the technical integrity of our WASH and irrigation components in East Africa. This role is a strategic blend of hydraulic engineering and community governance, requiring you to move from complex design phases and Bill of Quantities (BoQ) preparation to on-site contractor supervision in remote environments. You will be instrumental in integrating water solutions with Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and agriculture, ensuring that infrastructure is not only technically sound but also managed sustainably by local communities. Your expertise will bridge the gap between international standards and the unique hydrogeological challenges of the West Pokot and Somalia regions.

Functional Responsibilities

Engineering Design & Technical Supervision

• Prepare and audit BoQs, technical specifications, and site drawings (CAD) for the rehabilitation of wells, solar pumping systems, and distribution networks.

• Conduct comprehensive feasibility studies, including hydrogeological surveys, flow rate assessments, and water quality testing.

• Direct and monitor contractors on-site to verify the quality of materials, execution of works, and adherence to environmental and safety standards.

• Facilitate the technical closure of projects by issuing Work Completion Certificates and maintaining meticulous infrastructure databases.

Strategic Planning & Tender Management

• Lead the technical preparation for tender procedures, defining evaluation criteria and participating in the selection of construction partners.

• Support the Regional Coordinator in drafting new project proposals by providing technical cost estimates and design inputs.

• Integrate WASH activities with agricultural and irrigation components to promote holistic rural development.

Community Governance & Stakeholder Engagement

• Establish and train Water Users Associations (WUAs) to ensure the long-term maintenance and financial sustainability of water facilities.

• Mobilize beneficiaries to adopt essential hygiene practices and sustainable water-use behaviors.

• Liaise with local authorities and government institutions to ensure formal recognition and smooth handover of completed works.

• Collect and document success stories and lessons learned to facilitate the replicability of successful interventions.

Professional Requirements

Education & Technical Experience

• Academic Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil, Environmental, Hydraulic, or Agricultural Engineering (or a technical diploma with 3+ years of relevant experience).

• Core Experience: Minimum of 2 years of proven experience in the design and construction of rural water supply systems, specifically solar-powered pumps and ecological sanitation.

• Software Mastery: Proficiency in CAD, advanced Excel, and ideally GIS software for topographic and water monitoring data.

• Field Proficiency: Ability to conduct hydrogeological studies and manage construction phases from setting out to final testing.

Essential Competencies

• Contextual Knowledge: Deep understanding of the Kenyan water sector, specifically the challenges faced by agro-pastoralist communities in West Pokot.

• Language Skills: Excellent command of English; proficiency in the Pokot language is a distinct advantage.

• Team Synergy: Strong aptitude for working in multi-disciplinary teams and coordinating with diverse stakeholders in remote contexts.

• NGO Background: Previous experience with CEFA or AICS-funded projects is highly desirable.

Value Proposition

• Competitive Compensation: A monthly gross salary of KES 180,000 – 220,000 based on expertise.

• Regional Impact: Lead life-changing water interventions in both Kenya and Somalia.

• Sustainability Focus: Implement cutting-edge solar and ecological solutions for long-term climate resilience.

If you have the technical engineering depth and a passion for rural development, please submit your CV (including 3 official work references) and a 1-page cover letter to [email protected]. Ensure the subject line reflects the Job Title.

Applications must be submitted by 21st May 2026. Estimated start date: June 2026. Reach out with your application today.