WASH Specialist

Job Overview

The WASH Specialist Level 3 position is based in the UNICEF Uganda Country Office in Kampala. This role is central to advancing the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene portfolio, with a strategic focus on the KOICA-supported climate-resilient WASH programme in Karamoja. The programme aims to expand access to safe, inclusive and sustainable WASH services in schools and health facilities while strengthening institutional capacity and systems.

As a dedicated technical expert, you will provide programme management, quality assurance, and partnership support. You will work closely with national and district government counterparts, KOICA, and internal UNICEF teams to ensure effective planning, timely implementation, and sustained results monitoring. This is a critical role in a growing and strategically important area of UNICEF Uganda’s work.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and programme management for the KOICA-supported climate-resilient WASH programme in Karamoja, ensuring alignment with national priorities.
• Coordinate with KOICA, government ministries, and district authorities to develop work plans, budgets, and implementation strategies for WASH interventions.
• Ensure quality assurance of WASH activities by conducting field visits, monitoring progress, and providing corrective guidance to maintain high standards.
• Strengthen operation and maintenance systems for WASH infrastructure in schools and health facilities to ensure long-term sustainability and service delivery.
• Generate evidence and data on WASH outcomes to support monitoring, evaluation, visibility, and donor accountability reporting to KOICA and other partners.
• Build institutional capacity of local government and community structures in WASH planning, implementation, and hygiene promotion practices.
• Manage partnerships and collaborations with UNICEF teams, government agencies, and civil society to leverage resources and avoid duplication of efforts.
• Represent UNICEF in technical working groups, workshops, and conferences to advocate for child-sensitive WASH policies and increased investment.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• A university degree in public health, environmental engineering, water resources, development studies, or a related field is required for this technical role.
• At least five years of progressive professional experience in WASH programme planning, implementation, and management in development or emergency contexts is necessary.
• Proven experience in partnership management, working with government agencies, donors, or international organisations to deliver complex WASH interventions is essential.
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills, with the ability to synthesise data into clear, actionable insights for senior management and external stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with fluency in English; knowledge of local Ugandan languages is an advantage for community engagement.

Desirable

• Previous experience working in Karamoja or similar arid and semi-arid regions of Uganda is highly desirable due to the specific context of this role.
• Experience with climate-resilient WASH programming or integrating climate adaptation into water and sanitation projects will strengthen your application.
• Familiarity with KOICA procedures, reporting formats, or previous collaboration with Korean development agencies is a significant advantage.
• Certification in project management methodologies such as PMI or PRINCE2, or completion of advanced training in WASH sector standards, is viewed positively.
• Publication or contribution to WASH-related research, policy papers, or technical guidelines in peer-reviewed journals or development platforms.

What the Role Offers

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, life cover, and retirement benefits as per UNICEF Uganda staff rules.
• Housing allowance or accommodation support, particularly important for staff relocating to or serving in remote areas like Karamoja.
• Transport and travel allowances for field missions, ensuring safe and efficient access to project sites across Uganda.
• Meals and daily subsistence allowances provided during extended field assignments, supporting well-being during intensive programme implementation.
• Opportunities for professional development through UNICEF training programmes, workshops, and networking events with global WASH experts.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please submit your updated curriculum vitae, a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for this role, and any supporting certificates or references that demonstrate your qualifications. Ensure your application highlights your experience in WASH programme management, partnership coordination, and any work in climate-resilient development or the Karamoja region. Please apply now by clicking the link below.

About the Company

UNICEF Uganda is the country office of the United Nations Children’s Fund, working to uphold the rights of every child in Uganda. The organisation implements programmes in health, nutrition, WASH, education, child protection, and social policy across all regions of the country. UNICEF Uganda collaborates closely with the Government of Uganda, development partners, and civil society to achieve sustainable impact for children and young people.

The Country Office is known for its innovative approaches, strong evidence base, and commitment to leaving no child behind. Staff are encouraged to think creatively, act with integrity, and contribute to a diverse and inclusive workplace culture that values collaboration and continuous learning.

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