Sr. Hydrogeologist (sr. Project Officer I)

Background & Context

The Ministry of Water and Energy (MoWE) is spearheading innovative initiatives to enhance rural electrification, water supply, and agricultural productivity through the DREAM project. This initiative emphasizes integrating renewable energy-powered mini-grids with medium to large-scale irrigation systems, leveraging existing water infrastructure, and supporting private sector-led development in Ethiopia’s rural communities. As part of this effort, hydrogeological expertise is crucial for identifying sustainable ground-water sources to support irrigation and water supply components within the mini-grid and agricultural clusters.

Objective of the Role

The Senior Project Officer I -Senior Hydrogeologist will lead the ground-water exploration, design, and supervision activities essential for establishing sustainable water sources for irrigation and community water supply in project sites. The role involves conducting hydrogeological assessments, supervising exploration drilling operations, analysing ground-water data, and ensuring the sustainability and environmental compliance of ground-water abstraction.

Key Responsibilities

• Hydrogeological Site Assessments: Conduct detailed hydrogeological investigations to identify suitable ground-water sources within project areas, including aquifer characterization, recharge estimation, and sustainability analysis.
• Exploration Drilling Supervision: Plan, supervise, and evaluate exploration drilling activities, including borehole drilling, logging, testing, and sampling, ensuring adherence to technical standards and safety protocols.
• Ground-water Design & Development: Design efficient and sustainable ground-water extraction systems, including well design, pump selection, and siting to optimize yield, longevity, and environmental safety.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyse geophysical, hydrochemical, and hydrological data to assess aquifer properties, contamination risks, and ground-water availability; prepare comprehensive reports and technical documentation.
• Environmental & Regulatory Compliance: Ensure ground-water development activities comply with Ethiopian environmental regulations, water use policies, and best practices for sustainable exploitation.
• Capacity Building & Coordination: Provide technical guidance and capacity building to local teams, contractors, and stakeholders involved in drilling and ground-water management activities.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Work in close coordination with project partners, government agencies (including PEA), regional authorities, and private sector participants to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Monitoring & Sustainability: Establish ground-water monitoring plans, including piezometer installation and long-term data collection, to support sustainable abstraction and resource management.

Required Qualification, Competencies and Experience:

• At least Master’s degree in Hydrogeology, Geology, Civil Engineering, or related field;
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in ground-water exploration, hydrogeological assessments, and supervision of drilling activities, preferably in Ethiopia or similar environments.
• Proven expertise in ground-water resource assessment, aquifer modelling, and sustainable abstraction design.
• Demonstrated experience with exploration drilling supervision, well design, pump testing, and hydro chemical analysis.
• Familiarity with Ethiopian water laws, environmental regulations, and project management standards.
• Strong analytical skills, proficiency with hydrogeological software (e.g., MODFLOW, GeoModeler), and data reporting tools.
• Excellent communication skills in English and Amharic; ability to prepare technical
• reports and liaise with diverse stakeholders.

Key Competencies

• Technical expertise in hydrogeology and ground-water resource management
• Strong project management and supervision skills
• Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and coordinate with government and private sector stakeholders
• Problem-solving mindset with a focus on sustainable resource development
• Adaptability to field conditions and remote site operation