Job Description

The Opportunity

Save the Children is seeking a qualified and motivated Irrigation Officer to support the implementation of irrigation activities under the Resilience Economic Development (REDII) programme based in Zomba. This role is critical in ensuring the effective design, delivery, and monitoring of sustainable irrigation systems, with a strong focus on solar-powered solutions to enhance livelihoods and resilience among target communities.

As part of the project team, the Irrigation Officer will work closely with the Project Manager and other technical staff to plan, implement, and monitor irrigation interventions. The role will lead on technical aspects of irrigation system design, site assessments, installation oversight, and performance monitoring to ensure quality and efficiency.

The postholder will also collaborate with government partners, community groups, and other stakeholders to strengthen capacity, promote best practices in water management, and ensure sustainability of irrigation systems. In addition, the role will contribute to planning, reporting, and representation in relevant district-level forums.

This is an exciting opportunity for a technically skilled professional to contribute to improving food security and livelihoods while supporting sustainable resource management. In the event of a major humanitarian emergency, the role holder will be expected to work outside the normal role profile and adjust working hours accordingly.

To be successful, you will bring/have:

Bachelor’s degree in Irrigation Engineering or a related field
Minimum of 2 years’ experience in implementing solar-powered irrigation projects
Strong understanding of irrigation system design, hydraulics, and water resource management
Experience in site assessments, feasibility studies, and technical supervision of irrigation systems
Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and modern irrigation technologies
Proven ability to design and manage solar-powered irrigation systems
Strong planning, budgeting, analytical, and reporting skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with communities, government stakeholders, and partners
Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications
Good organizational and time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel)
Commitment to Save the Children’s values and mission
Willingness to travel to field locations as required

The Organisation

We employ approximately 25,000 people across the globe and work in over 100 countries to support children affected by crises and those in need of better healthcare, education, and protection. We also advocate at the highest levels to advance children’s rights and ensure their voices are heard.

We are working towards three breakthroughs in how the world treats children by 2030:

No child dies from preventable causes before their 5th birthday
All children learn from a quality basic education
Violence against children is no longer tolerated

We believe that great people make a great organisation. Our employees play a vital role in helping us achieve our ambitions for children. We offer a meaningful and rewarding career within a collaborative and inclusive environment where ambition, creativity, and integrity are highly valued.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to support the professional growth and success of all employees and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including persons with disabilities.

Application Information: Please attach a copy of your CV and cover letter with your application. A copy of the full role profile can be found at www.savethechildren.net/careers.

We are committed to keeping children safe, and our selection process includes rigorous background checks to reflect our commitment to protecting children from abuse. All employees are expected to carry out their duties in accordance with our global anti-harassment policy.