Water Mission is a Christian engineering nonprofit that designs, builds, and implements safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions for people in developing countries and disaster areas. With a mission rooted in faith and a commitment to excellence, Water Mission serves to bring safe water and the hope of Jesus to millions around the world. As part of our continued efforts to expand our reach and impact, we are currently looking for a qualified and passionate professional to join our team in Turkana County, Kenya.
This is a significant opportunity for a mission-driven individual who is experienced in technical and engineering tasks, especially those related to solar-powered water systems, and desires to contribute meaningfully to life-transforming projects in underserved communities. The role is deeply embedded in our Christian values, requiring not only technical expertise but also a spiritual commitment to the mission of Water Mission.
Position: Senior Technician
Location: Turkana County, Kenya
Reports to: Regional Manager – Turkana
Guidance from: Lead Engineer
Work Type: Full-time, on-site (residence in Turkana required)
Travel: Frequent to remote areas within Kenya and occasionally to neighboring countries
About Our Culture
At Water Mission, our organizational culture is grounded in a Biblical worldview. All team members are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, love, and excellence. The ideal candidate for the Senior Technician role will not only perform technical functions but will also actively foster a culture where colleagues and partners are empowered to seek excellence, acknowledge and address challenges, and work in alignment with our faith-based mission and values.
Detailed Job Description
General Responsibilities:
- Maintain a strong Christian witness in the workplace and during field activities.
- Exhibit servant leadership in interactions with coworkers, partners, and community members.
- Lead by example in demonstrating integrity, humility, and dedication to the organization’s values.
Technical and Field Responsibilities:
- Solar PV Systems Installation:
- Execute the installation of solar photovoltaic systems with precision.
- Oversee electrical wiring, mounting of inverters and panels, and installation of main switches.
- Ensure all electrical work adheres to professional and regulatory standards.
- Troubleshooting and Repair:
- Diagnose and resolve issues in solar energy systems, particularly those affecting wiring, connections, and overall performance.
- Repair faulty electrical systems and conduct follow-up assessments to ensure optimal functionality.
- Preventive and Corrective Maintenance:
- Conduct routine inspections and maintenance for installed electrical systems and components.
- Establish and follow a maintenance schedule that ensures system longevity and reliability.
- Team Leadership on Site:
- Act as a team lead during installation projects, ensuring adherence to quality, safety, and organizational standards.
- Supervise contractors, ensuring their compliance with Water Mission’s expectations for excellence.
- Compliance and Quality Control:
- Ensure all activities comply with local and international electrical codes.
- Uphold high standards in system installations, providing necessary guidance to installation teams.
- Training and Capacity Building:
- Train community system operators in the daily operation of installed systems.
- Emphasize monitoring key metrics, including chlorine levels in treated water to ensure water safety.
- Community and Water System Assessment:
- Conduct in-field assessments including testing for water quality and quantity.
- Perform survey measurements and document community needs with precision.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Produce timely and accurate project reports, including monthly updates, assessment summaries, and follow-up documents.
- Include photographic evidence and technical descriptions as per reporting guidelines.
- System Support Post-Installation:
- Provide ongoing support to operational projects, addressing technical faults or performance issues.
- Offer consultation and assistance to ensure communities maintain and operate their systems efficiently.
- Compliance and Organizational Engagement:
- Adhere to all internal policies, procedures, and code of conduct guidelines.
- Support organizational initiatives beyond the regular scope, including disaster response deployments when necessary.
- Other Duties:
- Take on additional responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor or leadership team.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams and participate in regional or national planning activities when required.
Qualifications and Competency Requirements
- Must demonstrate alignment with Water Mission’s Statement of Faith.
- Fluency in English and Swahili, both written and spoken, is mandatory.
- Diploma or Higher Diploma in Civil, Environmental, Electrical, or Electromechanical Engineering.
- A Bachelor’s Degree in any of the above fields is an added advantage.
- Certification in specialized fields such as electrical works, plumbing, or solar installation is required.
- Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in a related technical field, particularly involving water systems.
- Specialized practical skills such as welding, plumbing, electrical installations, or construction are highly desirable.
- Valid Kenyan driver’s license is required.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Competency in design and drafting software such as AutoCAD, PowerCADD, SolidWorks, or ProE.
- Strong analytical, planning, and time management skills.
- Ability to effectively communicate across cultures and organizational levels.
- A strong commitment to servant leadership and Christian values.
- Demonstrated ability to work under minimal supervision in remote and challenging environments.
- High standards for ethical behavior, stewardship, and personal integrity.
- Flexibility to travel and respond to emergencies in different parts of the country or region.
- Must be legally authorized to work in Kenya without sponsorship.
Work Environment and Expectations
This role requires consistent travel within Turkana and surrounding areas, including challenging terrain and remote communities. The selected candidate must be willing to engage directly with communities, often in conditions that require adaptability and endurance.
Water Mission offers a work environment that values spiritual and professional growth. Staff are encouraged to engage in continuous learning and contribute to a culture that celebrates impact, collaboration, and innovation. The Senior Technician will be a vital contributor to Water Mission’s vision of ending the global water crisis.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Water Mission is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability status, or any other protected characteristic.
Qualified local candidates residing in or willing to relocate to Turkana are highly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the appropriate channel as indicated in the job listing. For this position, the application process does not require an online application link.
Kindly refer to the official job advertisement or Water Mission communication channels for more details on how to submit your application. Please ensure you meet all the stated qualifications before applying.
Conclusion
This is more than just a job opportunity. It is a chance to be part of a mission that transforms lives through sustainable safe water solutions, rooted in a love for God and for others. If you are a dedicated technician with the technical expertise and a heart to serve, then this could be your calling.
We invite you to join Water Mission in our pursuit of a world where everyone has access to safe water and the knowledge of God’s love.
