Cooperazione Internazionale (COOPI) is an esteemed Italian non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to addressing humanitarian needs across the globe. Since its inception in 1965, COOPI has tirelessly worked to support disadvantaged communities, delivering essential resources, promoting sustainable development, and empowering vulnerable populations. COOPI’s core mission is to provide relief and aid where it is most needed, especially during times of crisis. With projects spanning over multiple countries, COOPI has played a pivotal role in improving lives and promoting resilience in the face of economic, environmental, and social challenges.
In Ethiopia, COOPI has been active since 1995, focusing primarily on emergency response, relief, and recovery initiatives that align with the urgent needs of local communities. COOPI Ethiopia specializes in several key areas, including water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), food security, livelihood support, nutrition, and protection. Each of these sectors is fundamental to improving the overall health and quality of life for Ethiopians, particularly those in vulnerable regions. Through its WASH programs, COOPI Ethiopia addresses critical issues of water access and sanitation, aiming to mitigate health risks associated with waterborne diseases and inadequate sanitation facilities.
COOPI is now seeking a dedicated intern to join its WASH team in the role of WASH Technical Officer. This internship is ideal for a recent graduate passionate about the water, sanitation, and hygiene sectors, particularly with a background in engineering. The WASH Technical Officer will play a significant role in supporting COOPI’s WASH initiatives by providing technical expertise, assisting in the development of innovative solutions, and contributing to the successful implementation of projects. This position is a valuable opportunity for career growth, with the potential to transition into a full-time role based on performance and organizational needs.
Position: WASH Technical Officer Intern
Duties and Responsibilities
As the WASH Technical Officer Intern, you will have a diverse and impactful set of responsibilities across multiple areas of COOPI’s WASH projects:
Planning
- Develop and update technical manuals and guidelines focused on water sector interventions.
- Work closely with the WASH Coordinator/Advisor to prepare a monthly plan and schedule for technical activities.
- Assist in drafting new project proposals, with a particular focus on selecting effective technical solutions.
- Attend weekly project meetings to discuss and review ongoing activities and plans.
Implementation
- Conduct research to keep WASH technical manuals up-to-date with the latest standards and best practices.
- Interpret technical drawings, bills of quantities (BoQs), and topographic surveys provided by the coordination office.
- Collaborate with the project team to incorporate new and innovative technical solutions into the projects.
- Prepare essential documents, such as BoQs and technical drawings for infrastructure projects, including towers with elevated tanks, water points, and sanitation facilities like latrines.
Reporting
- Participate actively in weekly meetings held by the WASH Coordinator/Advisor.
- Prepare detailed weekly and monthly reports on technical activities to keep the WASH team and leadership informed.
- Assist in drafting comprehensive progress reports to monitor project outcomes and performance.
Project Development
- Update technical drawings and BoQs to ensure project implementation meets the constraints and needs of the field.
External Coordination
- Represent COOPI in external meetings relevant to the WASH sector as requested by the supervisor.
Required Qualifications and Skills
To qualify for this internship, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Hydraulic Engineering and demonstrate fluency in English. The role requires excellent computer literacy skills, especially proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite, and knowledge of specialized software such as GIS, Copernicus Sentinel, AutoCAD, and SketchUp. These technical skills are critical for developing, analyzing, and presenting data effectively in the context of WASH infrastructure projects.
Preferred Qualifications include:
- In-depth knowledge of WASH infrastructure, including the construction of facilities such as water towers, concrete tanks, control boxes, water points, and latrines.
- Experience with WASH-related activities, including well development, hydraulics simulation, masonry, and concrete mixing.
- Familiarity with SPHERE Standards for humanitarian aid, which would be advantageous in ensuring that projects meet internationally recognized guidelines for quality and effectiveness.
- Knowledge of various types of fittings, pipes, and installation techniques.
- Ability to work well under pressure and adapt to challenging environments.
Internship Details
- Duration: Six months, with the possibility of transitioning to full-time employment based on performance and organizational needs.
- Benefits:
- Monthly reimbursement of 6,000 ETB.
- Medical insurance coverage of 10,000 ETB for the intern, plus 3,000 ETB for dependents (spouse and children).
- Eight leave days over the six-month contract period.
- Location: Addis Ababa, within COOPI’s Area Coordination Office.
- Application Deadline: November 21, 2024.
How to Apply
Interested applicants who meet the above qualifications should submit the following non-returnable documents:
- Cover Letter expressing interest in the position and outlining relevant experience.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae with details of academic and professional achievements.
- Applicants should email these documents to [email protected]. Please ensure that all attachments are included in the email as COOPI will not be held responsible for the loss of any original documents.
Applicants must specify the position title, WASH Technical Officer Intern, in the subject line of the email. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.
COOPI is an organization that values diversity and inclusivity, and women candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. Joining COOPI offers a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in a humanitarian context, where your work can directly impact and improve the lives of those in need. Apply today to begin a rewarding career in the WASH sector with COOPI, and contribute to sustainable change in Ethiopia and beyond.