This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.
Got It!
CETRAD_LOGO
CETRAD
CETRAD
Center for Training and Integrated Research In ASAL Development
Vacancy: Research Scientist, Water and Land Resources Management
A. Project: Water and Land Resources Management B. Position: Research Scientist C. Location: Nanyuki, Laikipia County D. Thematic Area: Water and Land Resource Management and Governance E. Type of Contract: Individual Contract F. Estimated Starting Date: December 1, 2023 G. Application Deadline: November 24, 2023 H. Duration of initial Contract: Two year with possibility of renewing for another period of 3 years depending on performance.
November 10, 2023
Careers News & Notices

A. Project: Water and Land Resources Management

B. Position: Research Scientist

C. Location: Nanyuki, Laikipia County, Kenya

D. Thematic Area: Water and Land Resource Management and Governance

E. Type of Contract: Individual Contract

F. Estimated Starting Date: December 1, 2023

G. Application Deadline: November 24, 2023

H. Duration of initial Contract: Two year with possibility of renewing for another period of 3 years depending on performance.

The candidate that meets minimum requirement set in this notice are encouraged to apply. CETRAD does not discriminate and welcomes applications from all qualified and interested persons.

Terms of Reference - Research Scientist, Water and Land Resources Management
Background

CETRAD is a Bilateral Institution between the Government of Kenya (through The Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation (MWS&I)) and the Government of Swiss Confederation, through the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE) of the University of Berne, acting on behalf of the Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation (SDC). CETRAD’s mandate is to assess the potential and utilization of natural resources in the ASALs and related socio-ecological landscapes through research and training and eventually contribute to building integrated data and information base, as well as human capacity to support sustainable development in the same context.

I. Objective of the assignment:

Sustainable use of natural resources is crucial for maintaining the basis for sustainable livelihood. The water sector is facing multiple challenges such as population growth, urbanization, poverty, climate change and natural resource degradation that negatively impact on water resources and ecosystem services in general. The water and land resource governance department addresses these challenges with the main aim of influencing policy dialogue on Integrated Water Resource Management and Governance (IWRM/G) at different levels and across scale, while also focusing on access to water by the poor, ensuring environmental services and at the same time minimizing related conflicts. At CETRAD our goal under this thrust is to ensure that the water and land governance and management are improved and related conflicts minimised. This is achieved through promoting evidence-based decision-making processes and providing information and knowledge to support design of powerful products for policy and practice, which influence /inform the national and international debate and collective action.

J. Scope of work and responsibilities:

The specific duties and responsibilities of the ideal candidate for this position will include, inter alia:

  • Responsible and accountable for the overall day-to day management, administration and coordination of all water and land resources related research (and development) projects in CETRAD. You will also supervise the staff working in the section.
  • Develop, with other team members, annual workplans and budgets for the project activities at the departmental level. Ensure timely implementation of planned activities and strict adherence to budget lines for various project activities.
  • Coordinate, participate (and/or take the lead) in the implementation of partner organisations initiatives utilising CETRAD’s Research and Development platform either in collaboration/partnership or otherwise.
  • Engage and maintain close ties with all CETRAD partners in the region (Ewaso Ng’iro North Basin) and the country at large in matters water and land resources management and governance.
  • Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of project activities and provide timely progress reports as required by relevant authorities/donors.
  • Support knowledge-sharing and capacity development initiatives related to sustainable water resource management and governance in the Ewaso Ng’iro North Basin, and the country in general, including capacity building for local communities, Community Water Projects, Community Forest Associations and Water Resource Users Associations.
  • Other relevant duties that may be assigned to you from time to time.
K. Management Services:

The Research Scientist, Land and Water Resources Management will report to the Director CETRAD and be part of the team involved in broad areas of:

  • Management: You will supervise staff working in the Water and Land Resources Management and Governance realm. In addition, as part of senior staff in CETRAD you will participate in all the management and administration responsibilities through the CETRAD Management Committee (CMC) meetings as and when they are convened;
  • Research: Participate in the design and implementation of research initiatives in the broad area of water and land resources management and governance. You may be called upon to support in similar tasks for the other thematic areas;
  • Training: Delivery of short courses to different target audiences from policy, implementation and societal level; and in particular focusing on IWRM/G and related fields;
  • Outreach and Visibility Programmes: Participate in the design and implementation of activities that promote CETRAD’s outreach engagements and visibility towards the outside.
  • Resource mobilisation: Be member of CETRAD Resource Mobilisation Committee
L. Qualification of the Suitable Candidate:

Education:

Master’s or PhD degree in any of the following areas: water resources management and governance, natural resources management and governance, environmental studies, Agricultural sciences, Geography, sustainable development, water/environmental engineering, or a related field. This must be an earned degree from a recognized university.

Experience and Competencies:

  • At least 8 years of practical experience in implementation of research projects in water and land resources management and governance, hydrology, environmental issues, and with significant experience and competence working in multicultural settings, etc. A PhD with less than 8 years post training work experience will be considered.
  • Demonstrated track record of successfully leading regional and national level transformational programs and delivering large-scale public-private partnership initiatives in water/sanitation/environment/sustainability/resource use issues.
  • Well-established networks among key individuals and organizations associated with the water, climate, and environment agenda, ideally across public, private, and civil society sector activities in Kenya and in particular Ewaso Ng’iro North River Basin
  • Proven ability to work with the academia, international organizations and donor agencies, government officials (at both national and county levels), non-governmental organizations, as well as with natural resource management and governance society rooted organizations.
  • Team leadership skills, with proven capacity and competence to supervise, coordinate and motivate team members in complex, highly decentralized, and matrixed organizational settings.
  • Familiarity with Kenyan water resource management and governance legislation, policies, and regulations, as well as the relevant industry standards.
  • Strong project management skills, including the ability to plan, coordinate, and monitor multiple project activities simultaneously; and ability to effectively manage multiple projects’ budgets and work programs.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with stakeholders, build partnerships, and facilitate community participation.
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills in English and Kiswahili.
  • Knowledge and experience working in the Ewaso Ng’iro North Basin will be an added advantage.

Language:

Fluency in English language

M. Application process:

Interested individuals must submit the following:

A cover letter specifically addressing how the applicant meets the requirements listed above. Latest Curriculum Vitae including the names and contact details of 3 referees from recent previous jobs.

Please submit your application, through The Director CETRAD, to [email protected] on or before COB 24 November 2023. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter