Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, working in 34 countries to provide adequate assistance and protection to refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, returnees, people on the move and local vulnerable population/host communities. DRC is currently looking for a highly qualified Spanish and English-speaking Wash, Shelter & Infrastructure (WASI) Specialist for a 12 month contract (renewable depending on funding and performance) based in Caracas, Venezuela. This is an opportunity for an experienced WASH expert to support DRC’s response to the current situation in Venezuela.
About the job
The main objective of the WASH Specialist is to support the Head of Programme, in the implementation of the strategy to monitor and evaluate the quality of programs according to WASI Sphere standards, donor strategy, and protection mainstreaming principles. He/She will carry out strategic activities of developing WASI tools and BoQs, reporting and control of quality standards, technically supporting WASI officers, eventually accompanying field teams in field activities. Under the direct supervision of the Head of Programs, she will have to coordinate with the programmatic team within the framework of the WASI strategy jointly with the heads of each base.
Your main duties and responsibilities will be:
- Execute plans, processes, and projects in support of departmental strategy, maximizing efficient use of resources and ensuring shared vision;
- Plan field-level implementation of WASI responses in collaboration with local partners and other stakeholders;
- Develop and review BOQs and technical specifications;
- Ensure adherence to international WASI standards and other best practices;
- Develop monitoring and evaluation systems to track project impact;
- Support critical decision-making processes, to include identifying issues and driving problem-solving, especially in resource-constrained and time-sensitive contexts;
- Represent DRC in the WASH Cluster and the Shelter & Settlement Working Group
- Design DRC WASI strategy
- Ensure integration of WASI activities with other DRC programmes
- Lead training sessions on partner and field teams prioritized topics;
- Develop relationships with priority partners, ensuring understanding of their WASI needs;
- Stay knowledgeable and aware of the latest research, innovations and developments within the WASI sector;
- Consider the integration of vulnerable populations as well as the environment when developing and executing WASI programs;
- Knowledge and experience in EPANET, GIS/GPS, and AutoCAD will be preferred
- Lead the revision of WASI technical reports and the development of WASI project proposals
- Perform other duties as assigned.
About you
To be successful in this role you must have:
Required
- Professional technical experience matching the above-mentioned duties and responsibilities.
- A University degree in Water Supply and Sanitation Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering, Water Resource or Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering or directly related field
- A minimum of 3 years international humanitarian field experience.
- Relevant educational background and knowledge of the UN system.
- Knowledge and understanding of the complexity related to displacement and other state of vulnerability
- Proficiency in English and Spanish is obligatory
We offer:
- The opportunity to be part of one of the best NGOs worldwide.
- Access to over 1,000 free online trainings and certifications.
- Contract length: 12 months subject to budget availability.
- Salary: Band G / Non-management. National contract.
- HCM insurance fully covered by the organization.
DRC Core Competencies:
- Achieving Excellence: Focus on achieving results and ensuring efficient processes.
- Collaboration: Engage relevant parties and encourage feedback.
- Taking the Initiative: Take ownership and initiative while seeking innovation.
- Communicating: Listen and speak effectively and honestly.
- Demonstrating Integrity: Act in accordance with DRC's vision and values.
Application Process: All applicants must upload a cover letter (max. 1 page) and an updated CV (max. 2 pages, without attachments) in English or Spanish, on the DRC employment platform. Applications sent by email will not be considered.
Closing date for applications: 27 August 2025 at 11:59 pm Local Time. Please note that applications will be reviewed continuously, and interviews will be scheduled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified. DRC reserves the right to close the vacancy before the deadline once a suitable candidate is identified.
Start Date: 15 September 2025
Working at DRC
Help applying
DRC as an employer
Founded in 1956, DRC Danish Refugee Council is Denmark’s largest, and a leading international NGO. We have continuously been ranked as one of the best NGOs in the world - and are one of the few with a specific expertise in forced displacement. In over 30 countries, we protect, advocate and build sustainable futures for refugees and other displacement-affected people and communities.
By working in DRC, you will be joining a global workforce of over 6,000 employees. We pride ourselves on our:
- Professionalism, impact & expertise
- Humanitarian approach & the work we do
- Purpose, meaningfulness & own contribution
- Culture, values & strong leadership
- Fair compensation & continuous development
DRC’s capacity to ensure the protection of and assistance to refugees, IDP’s and other persons of concern depends on the ability of our staff to uphold and promote the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation DRC’s values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment. DRC conducts thorough and comprehensive background checks as part of the recruitment process.
Danish Refugee Council is an equal opportunity employer and we consider all applicants based on individual merit and qualifications, regardless of personal characteristics or attributes. We are committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce, aiming for a 50% balance of men and women in management roles and ensuring that at least 50% of management roles are filled by national staff. We recognize that a diverse and inclusive team is crucial for achieving our organizational goals and making a positive impact on the communities we serve.