Multiple Job Opportunities at MECB Consulting Ltd – June 2017

Release Date: 27/05/2017

For: “Smart Safe Water Scheme Scaling-up Project, Jack Compound, Lusaka district”.

Contractor: MECB Consulting Limited.

Funded by: Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)/Millennium Challenge Account-Zambia (MCAZ)/ Innovative Grant Program (IGP)

INTRODUCTION

MECB Consulting Limited has been awarded a Grant by Millennium Challenge Account-Zambia (MCAZ) with funding from Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) under the Innovative Grant Program (IGP) to implement the Smart Safe Water Scheme (SSWS) Scaling-up (the project) in Jack Compound of Lusaka district. MECB Consulting Limited will work with Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC) to implement the project.

The primary aim of the project is to improve access to safe water supply in Jack compound, one of the peri-urban communities of Lusaka district.

MECB Consulting Limited is seeking suitably qualified and experienced candidates for the positions described below.

TIMELINE

Application Deadline:  Applications with CVs must be received no later than 17:00 PM on Friday, June 9, 2017, by email to [email protected] or by hand to the MECB Consulting Limited Office at Plot No. 13, Sianjalika Road, Woodlands, Lusaka.  Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Job Title 1: Technical Advisor

Reporting to: Project Manager

Location: Lusaka, Zambia

Position Description

The Technical Advisor will serve as the project’s full-time technical lead for all project activities, with a focus on supervision of the execution by the sub-contractors of all construction works related to the project, verifying that the contractor executes the works according to the plans and specifications, project schedule and budget and provide support at all stages of project implementation. The Technical Advisor will work closely with Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC), Jack Community organizations, Millennium Challenge Account Zambia and other key project stakeholders.  

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate technical activities with key project stakeholders such as LWSC, Government, MCA-Zambia and Jack Community organizations.
• Coordinate the technical inputs for the water and hygiene components and maintain overall responsibility for technical oversight of project activities.
• Support the identification and participate in the negotiation of contracts with sub-contractors on water supply services in line with MCA-Zambia guidelines and national standards.
• Represent MECB and the project at water and sanitation for a, and technical sessions.
• Ensure effective monitoring and evaluation of the technical components of the projects
• Assist in the design and drafting of project detailed implementation plans.
• Participate in project reviews, including assisting the project  in the development of quantitative and qualitative assessments including baseline surveys and computer analysis of results
• Ensure public health concepts are integrated into water and hygiene activities including hygiene promotion and community mobilization.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree (Master’s degree is an added advantage) in engineering and a background in environmental science, business management concerning water and sanitation, or similar fields.
• At least 5 years of progressively responsible, relevant experience working within the water and sanitation sector.
• Significant experience in relevant project management or technical advisory roles in complex water and sanitation health projects with at least three years of experience in Zambia.
• Knowledge of community-level challenges impacting water and sanitation delivery.
• Experience with GRANT-funded projects (ideally, in a senior management position) highly preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge about gender and development, and demonstrated experience and proficiency in managing projects that mainstream gender.
• Experience working and collaborating with diverse sets of stakeholders, such as local NGOs, government officials, donor representatives, and international staff.
• Proven leadership, inter-personal and cross-cultural skills, and ability to build and motivate diverse teams.
• Excellent English oral and written communication skills.

Job Title 2: Water Engineer

Department: Technical Operations

Reporting to: Project Manager

Location: Lusaka, Zambia

Position Description

The scope of work to be performed by the Water Engineer includes the oversight of the subcontractor’s activities in the execution of the works.  The Engineer will interface with the sub-Contractor and be responsible on behalf of MECB for the inspection and supervision of the entire works.

Key Responsibilities

• Review of all engineering documents designs and contract documents to familiarize with the scope, quality and budget prior to construction works.
• Review construction schedules submitted by the subcontractor and ensure adherence to the schedule as well as recommend changes where necessary.
• Inspect and check pre-works activities before actual works
• Review the Contractor’s construction schedules, monitor construction progress and report deviations from the schedule that may delay project’s completion
• Record, report and recommend actions the contractor should implement in order to redress any poor workmanship and defects in executed works and in materials
• Inspect all works in progress to ensure the quality of works and compliance with the contract documents.
• Review and verify qualifications of the proposed key personnel of the sub-contractors
• Oversee the Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) system proposed by the sub- Contractors, ensuring that the quality assurance and control documentation is available for use for inspection and auditing.
• Prepare and Maintain a daily site diary to record events on site which will include among others weather conditions, manpower on site, plant and equipment in use, contractor’s activities and special occurrences.
• Hold regular progress meetings with the Sub-contractors to discuss project progress and specific issues arising from construction activities prepare and distribute accurate meeting minutes in a timely manner.
• Inspect and record the Contractor’s plant and equipment for undertaking the works and report any plant and equipment thought to be inadequate in this regard and advise the Contractor to remove/replace any defective equipment from the works site
• Review and validate application for payment submitted by the Subcontractors and/or advise them of any adjustments, corrections and/or additions to the content or supporting documentation that must be made before submitting the interim (or final) payment.
• Review and monitor the Sub-contractor’s health and safety program, record any safety violations and make recommendations for improving safety conditions. Monitor the subcontractor’s operations and verify that the sub-contractors comply with the requirements of laws and regulations governing the construction of works in Zambia and recommend actions the Contractor should implement in order to redress any non-compliance in respect to issues concerning occupational health and safety including workers’ compensation, public safety.
• Monitor the Contractor’s operations and verify that the Contractor complies with the requirements of laws and regulations governing the construction of works in Zambia, including environmental laws and regulations.
• Monitor that the contractor complies with the specifications in the contract documents, including the Environmental and Social Management Plan, and recommend actions that the Contractor should implement in order to redress any non-compliance in respect to issues such as Compensation for damages to property, Environmental protection measures for construction activities, Protection of flora and fauna, temporary traffic management and signage.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• Professional registered engineer with a minimum of a BSc degree qualification in civil engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum of five (5) years overall experience and three (3) years relevant construction management/supervision experience in the water supply and sanitation sector predominantly on projects of similar scope, size, and complexity.
• Communication and negotiation skills
• Teamwork and people management skills
• Problem-solving ability.
• IT knowledge
• Self-motivation and a proactive approach to work
• Good time management skills

Job Title No. 3: Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist

Department: Technical Operations

Reporting to: Project Manager

Position: Lusaka, Zambia

Position Description

Provide technical support to the planning, monitoring, and evaluation of project activities. The purpose is to ensure MECB Consulting Limited and partners fully implement the project’s M&E framework in order to strengthen real-time monitoring of project implementation with quality feedback that will enable timely action to improve outputs, realize outcomes and generate the desired impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of the project’s monitoring and evaluation activities, including the development of the project’s Monitoring and Evaluation Plans; development and monitoring of project indicators; implementation of baseline, midterm and end line studies; oversight of data collection and analysis; synthesis of data and study outcome reports; quality assurance and auditing of data.
• Lead a robust “collaboration, learning and adaptation” agenda for the project, designing and implementing mechanisms for continuous learning, collaboration and adaptation for project staff, partners, donor, government counterparts and other stakeholders.
• Ensure data quality, analyze data sets and technical assessment findings, and develop and monitor work plans.
• Build capacity of staff, implementing partners and other stakeholders in project monitoring and evaluation, data collection and management.
• Undertake periodic reviews of project M&E systems, and participate in planning M&E system strengthening actions. Provide guidance on information systems for quality assurance, as well as best practices documentation and reporting.
• Ensure all monitoring and evaluation conducted under the project includes a gender focus that promotes gender equitable programming.
• Monitor and maintain relevant protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, training materials and reports.
• Contribute to work plans, quarterly and annual reports, financial reports, and other reports and papers summarizing project results and evidence.
• Deliver presentations at professional meetings and conferences.
• Responsible for designing and implementing Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) activities
• Monitor project activities, expenditures, and progress towards achieving the project outputs.
• Participate in developing and monitoring impact indicators for the project success.
• Monitor the sustainability of the project’s results.
• Lead the design and implementation of the project’s learning activities, working closely with other technical staff in the project. Learning activities include but are not limited to operations research, performance evaluations, impact evaluations, and rapid/special studies.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in arts, administration, information management, project management or other relevant academic background
• At least 5 years of monitoring and evaluation experience is essential
• Good level of proficiency in Windows Excel and quantitative analysis
• Ability to design M&E tools, surveys, surveillance systems, and evaluations
• Demonstrated ability to train and build capacity of others
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Experience in a non-governmental organization or in the United Nations (desirable)

Job Title No. 4: Community Mobilization Specialist

Department: Technical Operations

Reporting to: Project Manager

Location: Lusaka, Zambia

Position Description

The Community Mobilization Officer’s activities include: leading community stakeholder mapping processes and community stakeholder consultation and sensitization; engagement with community leaders and government authorities; providing continuous promotion of water quality and hygiene standards through campaigns, meetings and community mobilization.

Key Responsibilities

• Local community stakeholder consultation and sensitization
• Community Relationships: Develop and maintain positive relationships with local community leaders and community stakeholders.
• Community institution mapping and related data collection: Maintain updated, accurate records of community institutional arrangements, local power dynamics, and census information.
• Coordination of field-based activities: Coordinate and manage community mobilization activities and Community Mobilizers
• Reporting: Work with community mobilizers and other community members to complete weekly, monthly and quarterly reports following standardized templates; reporting includes collection of data from community representatives and CBO members
• Training and Capacity Building: Ensure field-based Community Mobilizers are capable of collecting data, reporting, coordinating and supporting the implementation of activities according to expectations.
• Communication: Provide frequent and accurate information updates to community mobilizers, and stakeholders, so that they are well informed of the programs ongoing work and new developments.
• Communication Space: Promote forums for discussion and questions among and with community stakeholder’s staff to ensure that accurate information is provided and concerns addressed.
• Conflict Resolution: Identify and work through locally appropriate mechanisms to address any conflicts that may arise within communities related to the project activities in the community.
• Translations: Coordinate the translation of relevant documents into local languages, as needed.
• Contribute to project’s advocacy and external representation on issues relating to water and hygiene education.
• Undertake health and sanitation education and training activities.
• Ensure that mainstreaming and integration of gender, HIV/AIDS, protection issues and disability, age and other vulnerabilities are considered and integrated into project work plans.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Public health or a related study
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a development or emergency context in appropriate water supplies, sanitation, and hygiene promotion.
• Demonstrate good knowledge and understanding of the public health needs of peri- urban communities.
• Training and practical experience in design for behavior change framework will be an added advantage
• Must demonstrate good analytical and report writing skills.
• Demonstrate diplomacy, tact and administrative skills working with senior government officials, NGOs and managerial teams.
• Demonstrates well-developed interpersonal skills, team skills, excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, as well as negotiation skills.
• Demonstrate proven ability to be flexible in demanding situations.

Job Title No.5: Project Accountant

Department: Finance and Administration

Reporting to: Project Manager

Location: Lusaka, Zambia

Position Description

The Project Accountant is responsible for handling budget preparations, analyzing financial data and handles all statutory obligations. The Project Accountant performs professional accounting work involving the compilation, consolidation, and analysis of financial data.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly account reconciliations Maintaining and reconciling fixed assets schedules
• Oversee financial aspect of planning and preparation for donor reporting, with donor requirements and timelines.
• Ensure that financial management systems and records are effective.
• Consolidate cash flows, reporting templates, financial plans and amendments throughout the project life.
• Review and monitor budgets to support financial stability.
• Maintain all records and files in accordance with Donor requirements.
• Maintain an adequate filing system for all financial and accounting deliverables to ensure ease of access during the internal/external audit.
• Prepare budget amendments based on performance and currency fluctuation.
• Assist in consolidating financial reports, fund requests, and budgets in a timely fashion.
• Ensure that all financial records and accounts are compiled on time, accurately and in line with international accounting standards and donor regulations.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• Diploma/Bachelor’s degree in Business required preferably in Accounting or Finance.
• Five years accounting experience, preferably three in non-profit sponsored programs
• Registered member of Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants
• Analytical – Synthesizing complex or diverse information
• Problem Solving – Identifying and resolving problems in a timely manner
• Project Management – Developing project plans; Coordinating projects; Communicating changes and progress
• Interpersonal – Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality
• Oral Communication – Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations
• Team Work – Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views.
• Delegation – Delegates work assignments; Matches the responsibility to the person; Gives authority to work independently; Sets expectations and monitors delegated activities; Provides recognition for results.
• Managing People – Includes staff in planning, decision-making, facilitating and process improvement; Takes responsibility for subordinates’ activities; Makes self available to staff; Provides regular performance feedback; Develops subordinates’ skills and encourages growth
• Organizational Support – Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization’s goals and values;
• Safety and Security – Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.

Job Title No.6: Procurement & Logistics Officer

Department: Finance and Administration

Reporting to: Project Accountant

Location: Lusaka Zambia

Position Description

The rules shall be to support, sourcing, analyzing and contracting management, supplier performance, knowledge management, expediter and internal customer relationship management.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and participate in the preparation of the Project Procurement Plan and subsequent updates of the plan.
• Update the procurement tracker and submit a monthly report.
• Communicating with suppliers, contractors, and project staff regarding purchase requisitions, specifications, bids, contracts, orders, and related matters.
• Supporting and providing technical guidance to the project in drafting specifications, establishing price estimates and other procurement technical aspects.
• Participate in the prequalification of approved suppliers in line with MECB and Donor Procurement Guidelines.
• Ensuring that the approved supply list and the data base is up to date.
• Ensuring that an up to date price list of frequently procured items is maintained.
• Participate in cross-functional project teams assigned to develop or evaluate contracts or proposals.
• Apply proper descriptive terminology or specifications to requisitions for commodities and services; apply independent judgment and technical knowledge to analyzing bids, making awards, examining merchandise quality, and comparing specifications and prices of competitive items.
• Assist in the development a variety of purchasing-related documents including contract terms, conditions, specifications, and contractual agreements.
• Secures price quotations and prepares terms, conditions, and/or specifications for prospective purchases.
• Making recommendations of the appropriate evaluation methodology and criteria procurements.
• Conduct and participate in the evaluation of proposals, bids, and quotations.
• Preparing evaluation reports and bid analysis and recommendations of the award of the contract.
• Drafting, editing, reviewing, and interpreting contract terms, conditions, and specifications.
• Recommending negotiations and contract award for supplies.
• Ensuring the supplier performance reports are obtained per procurement transaction from Users/Programs.Examining, inspecting, and comparing the quality of merchandise and/or services purchased or to be purchased, to ensure that they meet the MECB and Donor requirements.
• Preparing the Updated Monthly Procurement Plan and Monthly Procurement Reports.
• Ensuring that the appropriate Procurement Reference Numbers are assigned to every procurement transact.
• Ensure a complete audit trail for all procurement process documentation.
• Maintaining an up to date Procurement, Contract Risk & Register.
• Maintaining an up to date supplier list with key supplier details; Supplier Admin & Bid Logs.
• Any Other Duties assigned from time to time.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• Diploma/Bachelor’s Degree in supply chain management, logistics or business administration
• At least 2 years proven working experience as a procurement manager or procurement officKnowledge of sourcing and procurement techniques as well as a dexterity in “reading” the market
• Talent in negotiations and networking
• Good knowledge of supplier or third party management software
• Aptitude in decision-making and working with numbers
• Experience in collecting and analyzing data
• Strong leadership capabilities

Job Title No. 7: Administrative Assistant

Department: Finance/Administration

Reporting to: Project Accountant

Location: Lusaka Zambia

Position Description

Working under the supervision of the Project Accountant, the Administrative Assistant will perform a variety of general administrative and clerical services. The incumbent will be required to both take direction and work intuitively to support the completion of the project’s goals and objectives in a professionally and culturally appropriate manner.

Key Responsibilities

• Works cooperatively with all team members to support the achievement of work plan activities designed to achieve identified goals and objectives;
• Operates office equipment such as computers, fax machines, photocopiers, voice mail messaging systems and computer scanning equipment to complete department tasks;
• Performs clerical functions such as preparing correspondence, receiving visitors, arranging
• conference calls, and scheduling meetings for the Project Manager or designate;
• Coordinates and organizes project meetings and conferences including meeting venue bookings, catering requirements, sets up the room with audio-visual equipment and flip charts and tends to other requirements of project meetings;
• Completes internal and external correspondence, legal documents, form letters and other documents, and distributes them as directed;
• Prepares meeting agendas, records and distributes meeting minutes, and maintains organized files of same;
• Coordinates any required repairs to office equipment;
• Maintains adequate office supply of all department supplies used within the department;
• Assists in the development and distribution of staff schedules;
• Produces and/or assists in the production of all required internal and external reports;
• Verifies and records staff compliance with financial policies and procedures, including travel expense claims and staff attendance reports;
• Prepares financial, expenditures and payment authorization forms, and administrative documents for authorization by the Project Manager, such as cheque requisitions, purchase orders, etc.
• Develops or maintains an accurate and up to date records management system (including classifying and coding electronic and hardcopy files);
• Stores retrieves and disseminates information for staff and clients;
• Ensures the safeguarding of all confidential files;

Key Qualifications and Skills

• Administrative Assistant/ business administration/banking diploma or related diploma or degree.
• Minimum of 1-year  experience in a similar position
• Ability to develop and provide leadership, guidance, motivation and vision to the project management team
• Must possess strong organization, evaluation, and problem-solving skills;
• Must be able to communicate effectively in writing and verbally;
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must be able to work flexible hours;

Job Title No. 8: Receptionist

Department:  Finance and Administration

Reporting to: Project Accountant

Location: Lusaka, Zambia

Position Description

Provides office services by assisting the Administrative Assistant in maintaining, procedures, policies, and monitoring administrative projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage front desk administrative operations and procedures
• Act as the first point of contact for all visitors and callers
• Keep visitors log book
• Manage internal communication network (reception, management of internal calls, dispatching of received emails and parcels etc.).
• Manage administrative operations and procedures under the supervision of the Administrative Assistant.
• Clerical duties (photocopying, filing, scanning, binding documents etc.).
• Perform document retention procedures such as filling of documents/record keeping, serialization both soft and hard copy.
• Advocate and promote a healthy, creative and safe work environment.
• Ensure proper functioning of the office organize team meetings, circulate agendas, take and circulate minutes.
• Assist the Administrative Officer in updating the Office Staff list
• Responsible for updating master contact databases (Both staff and Vendors).
• Assist the Administrative Assistant in ensuring operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs; maintaining equipment inventories; evaluating new equipment and techniques.
• Verifying receipt of supplies.
• Ensure the management and monitoring of subscriptions and monthly telephone and the internet communications.
• Maintain proper records for all correspondences

Key Qualifications and Skills

• At least Grade 12 School Certificate
• At least 1 year proven working experience in a front office handling receptionist responsibilities.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite
• Professional appearance
• Solid communication skills both written and verbal
•  Ability to be resourceful and proactive in dealing with issues that may arise
• Ability to organize, multitask, prioritize and work under pressure