Internship Opportunity – Integrated Water Resources Management – Marsabit, Kenya

Company: Catholic Relief Services
Location: Marsabit, Kenya (On-site)
Job Type: Internship
Job Duration: 6 months

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About Catholic Relief Services

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is dedicated to assisting the poor and vulnerable worldwide. Our Catholic identity is at the core of our mission, and we welcome individuals of all faiths and secular traditions who share our values. We operate as an international non-governmental organization (NGO) in over 100 countries, prioritizing assistance based on need, regardless of background. In Kenya, we’ve been working for over 50 years, collaborating closely with local partners to implement programs in various sectors, including agriculture, livelihoods, health, nutrition, and more.

Background

CRS, in partnership with international NGOs, local partners, and research institutions, is leading the USAID Nawiri Program, a Resilience Food Security Activity (RFSA) funded by the USAID Office of Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) in Kenya. The primary objective of this multi-sectoral initiative is to sustainably reduce acute malnutrition levels in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), specifically in Isiolo and Marsabit counties.

Nawiri focuses on implementing nutrition-sensitive and specific activities in 12 wards of Marsabit county, including North horr, Dukana, Illeret, and others.

Why this Internship?

The CRS internship program aims to provide valuable learning experiences to recent Kenyan graduates while building a talent pool for humanitarian aid and development careers. This opportunity is open to graduates who have completed relevant studies within the past two years and are committed to a six-month program.

Objective

As the Intern – Integrated Water Resources Management, you will:

1. Gain practical training and experience, developing 21st-century career and life skills.
2. Contribute significantly to Sustainable Development Goals and National/County development goals.
3. Develop leadership skills aligned with sustainable development principles, particularly in Water, Energy, and Food Security infrastructure, systems, and processes.

How?

You will be part of the Nawiri Water, Sanitation, Hygiene, and Environment team, working closely with the County Departments of Water and Sanitation and Preventive Health (Public Health). Your role includes supporting Nawiri program activities under their guidance. Clear internship objectives will be set at the start, continuously assessed, and appraised at the program’s end to ensure you meet your learning and development goals.

Role

Your role involves collaborating with the Nawiri County WASH Lead, County Departments of Water and Sanitation, Preventive Health (Public Health), and Nawiri consortium partners. Key responsibilities include:

• Participating in Nawiri weekly activity planning.
• Assisting in the design, planning, monitoring, and operation of water supply and other water-related projects.
• Collaborating with stakeholders on infrastructure operations, maintenance plans, and safety plans.
• Engaging in community-level activities, including household visits, dialogues, and consultations.
• Compiling activity and field visit reports.
• Participating in team meetings and coordination efforts.
• Liaising with various stakeholders for effective implementation of activities.

Required/Desired Language Skills

• English and Swahili

Travel Requirements

• 90% of the time to targeted sub-counties of Marsabit.

Key Working Relationships

Supervision: None
Reports to: Senior Project Officer – WASH

Internal: Nawiri WASH Lead, Nawiri Environmental Compliance Lead, Marsabit County WASH Lead, Sub County Coordinators, Sub County WASH Project Officers.

External: Donors, Private sector actors, Government agencies/officials, Local/international NGOs, and UN agencies operating in the project area.

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Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Water Resources Management (Hydrology/Water Resources Management/Geology/Geography/Natural Resources Management, Environmental Planning and Management/Water and Environmental Management) from Kenyan Universities/Reputable Colleges.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to write comprehensive reports.
• Proficiency in computer-aided drawing/design, modeling, monitoring, GIS, and remote sensing applications.
• Willingness to adapt to a dynamic environment.
• Ability to work in remote field locations for extended periods.
• Strong character, creativity, honesty, integrity, and a positive attitude.
• Commitment to respect, equity, diversity, and inclusion, including gender equality.

Agency REDI Competencies (for all CRS Staff)

• Personal Accountability – Consistently takes responsibility for one’s own actions.
• Acts with Integrity – Consistently models values aligned with CRS Guiding Principles and mission.
• Builds and Maintains Trust – Shows consistency between words and actions.
• Collaborates with Others – Works effectively in intercultural and diverse teams.
• Open to Learn – Seeks out experiences that may change perspective or provide an opportunity to learn.

Agency Leadership Competencies

• Lead Change – Continually looks for ways to improve the agency through a culture of agility, openness, and innovation.
• Develops and Recognizes Others – Builds the capacity of staff to reach their full potential and enhance team and agency performance.
• Strategic Mindset – Understands the role in translating, communicating, and implementing agency strategy and team priorities.

Note: Internship participants will not receive a salary but will be provided with a monthly stipend, medical coverage, and Group Personal Accident cover as per HR Compensation provisions. CRS is not obligated to hire interns after the program’s completion.

What We Offer

CRS offers an opportunity for graduates to learn and work in a collaborative, mission-driven culture that is committed to improving the lives of the poor worldwide. We value diversity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds who share our mission and values.

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Application Deadline: October 19, 2023, 03:59 PM

Degree Level: Bachelor’s Degree
Job Schedule: Full time
Job Shift: Day
Location: APHIA IMARISHA Project Field Office, MARSABIT, Marsabit, KE (On-site)

Please apply in English.

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Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant

At CRS, we’re looking for candidates who not only meet the qualifications but also embody our values and mission. Here are some expert tips to enhance your application:

1. Demonstrate Passion: Showcase your genuine passion for humanitarian and development work. Describe experiences where you’ve contributed to positive change in your community or academic projects related to water resources management.
2. Highlight Adaptability: Emphasize your ability to thrive in dynamic environments. Share examples of how you’ve successfully adapted to new challenges or rapidly changing contexts.
3. Team Collaboration: Illustrate your collaborative skills. Describe instances where you’ve worked effectively in diverse teams, respecting different perspectives and cultures.
4. Continuous Learning: Highlight your commitment to learning. Mention any courses, certifications, or workshops you’ve completed to enhance your knowledge and skills relevant to this role.
5. Integrity and Respect: Embody CRS’s values of integrity and respect. Discuss how you’ve demonstrated honesty, respect, and inclusivity in your past experiences.
6. Gender Equality: Showcase your commitment to gender equality. Share instances where you’ve promoted gender equity and inclusivity in your academic or volunteer activities.

By applying these expert tips, you can stand out as a candidate who not only meets the requirements but aligns with the values and mission of CRS, increasing your chances of success in the application process. Your dedication to making a positive impact in the world is what we’re looking for. Make your application count!