About the Organization
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading United Nations-related organization established in 1951, dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Working closely with governments, intergovernmental bodies, and non-governmental partners, IOM provides advisory services, humanitarian assistance, and development support to ensure that migration contributes positively to society.
IOM is committed to fostering a workplace where employees can thrive professionally while contributing to meaningful projects that impact communities globally. Staff and affiliated contractors are encouraged to bring innovation, teamwork, and leadership to their roles while contributing to the Organization’s mission.
Job Description
The Senior Project Associate (WASH) will play a crucial role in implementing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions in Shire Endaselas, Ethiopia. Reporting to the National Project Officer (WASH) and under the supervision of the Head of Sub-office and Programme Manager (WASH), the role involves planning, coordination, monitoring, and management of WASH activities in the area of responsibility.
The selected candidate will ensure effective delivery of project objectives, including hygiene promotion, water supply interventions, sanitation improvements, and capacity building for local partners. This position offers a chance to engage directly with vulnerable populations, including migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons, while working in a multi-cultural humanitarian setting.
This role is designed for professional growth, offering exposure to international humanitarian operations, partnership building, and strategic project implementation. The Senior Project Associate will also support the development of operational procedures and contribute to the creation of new project proposals.
Educational Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Water and Sanitation, or a related field with four years of relevant professional experience.
- Alternatively, a high school diploma in these fields with six years of relevant professional experience is acceptable.
Work Experience
- Experience liaising with governmental authorities, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other international institutions.
- Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, and other vulnerable groups.
- Previous work in international humanitarian organizations, NGOs, or government institutions in a multicultural environment is an advantage.
- Familiarity with WASH infrastructure development and non-food item (NFI) distribution in emergency contexts.
Required Skills and Competencies
- Strong knowledge of migration-related issues and humanitarian programming.
- Sound understanding of financial rules, regulations, and project budget management.
- Demonstrated leadership in partnership building and consensual decision-making.
- Excellent team building, communication, and information management skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Fluency in English is required; working knowledge of Amharic and Tigrigna is desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to draft reports, manage meetings, organize training workshops, and support capacity building.
- Ability to monitor project implementation, track partner compliance, and recommend corrective actions.
- Understanding of water, sanitation, and hygiene principles for humanitarian assistance.
Job Location
Shire Endaselas, Ethiopia
Employment Type and Salary
- Consultancy position under an Affiliated Contract for up to 11 months.
- Compensation includes coverage against occupational accidents and illnesses under the IOM Compensation Plan.
- Medical insurance for non-occupational issues is the responsibility of the contractor.
- This position does not include evacuation coverage.
Career Development Opportunities
The Senior Project Associate position offers exposure to complex humanitarian projects, working with diverse populations, and collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including UN agencies, government authorities, and NGOs. The role enables the development of leadership skills, project management expertise, and strategic decision-making capabilities.
Contractors will have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that directly impact community well-being while building a professional profile in international humanitarian operations. The role is ideal for individuals seeking experience in WASH, emergency response, and multi-stakeholder coordination.
Responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate, implement, and monitor WASH project activities.
- Compile, analyze, and present data on project performance and challenges.
- Monitor and manage project budgets, proposing adjustments when necessary.
- Act as a focal point for administrative coordination, liaising with internal units and external stakeholders.
- Draft reports, correspondence, briefing notes, graphics, and statistical tables.
- Organize and participate in meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
- Support the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and concept papers.
- Supervise and mentor field staff and project team members as assigned.
- Ensure compliance of implementing partners with project guidelines.
- Respond to complex information requests and maintain accurate project records.
Values and Competencies
- Uphold IOM values of inclusion, integrity, professionalism, courage, and empathy.
- Demonstrate teamwork, accountability, knowledge sharing, communication, and results-oriented performance.
- Exhibit leadership, strategic thinking, humility, trust-building, and empowerment of others.
Additional Notes
- IOM does not charge fees at any recruitment stage and does not require scanned certificates during application.
- Appointment is subject to funding confirmation, medical fitness, residency/visa requirements, and security clearances.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Application Deadline
March 10, 2026
This role is particularly encouraging for women and underrepresented groups to apply, reflecting IOM’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all operational settings.
Applicants will gain hands-on experience in humanitarian WASH programs while contributing meaningfully to the health, hygiene, and safety of vulnerable populations in Ethiopia.