Project Officer at Meru University of Science and Technology

Project summary

The primary objective of the PEFCoM project is to strengthen the environmental- friendly building material sector in the country by building on the groundwork established under the PEFCoM Project. The project aims to disseminate LC³ as a sustainable cement option in Malawi, focusing on reducing environmental emissions, enhancing resource efficiency, and improving profitability, in line with the Public Private Project “Promoting an Environmental-Friendly Construction sector in Malawi” (PEFCoM). To achieve this, the project will implement three work packages:

• WP-1: geological mapping, clay sampling, and laboratory testing
• WP-2: will focus on organizing an LC³ information day
• WP-3: will support the establishment of an LC³ standard

Through this strategy, the project aims to create a scientific and legal framework for LC³ in Malawi, thereby establishing sustainable value chains driven by local business interests that will continue beyond the duration of the project.

Project Location

This is a full-time position based in Meru-Kenya. The Project Officer will be primarily based at the Institute of Cement and Concrete, Meru University of Science & Technology, Meru-Kenya. The successful applicants will be expected to report directly to the Project co-ordinator, LC3-TRC Africa and also work closely with the project partners within and outside Kenya.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Planning:

• Assisting in the development of project plans, including defining scope, objectives, risk assessment and timelines.
• Conducting research and gathering information for planning and designing the project.

Coordination and Communication:

• Facilitating communication among project stakeholders, including team members, clients, and external partners.
• Organizing and participating in project meetings, documenting minutes, and following up on actions.

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Tracking project progress against timelines and deliverables.
• Preparing and presenting status reports and updates to stakeholders.
•  Identifying potential risks and issues and proposing mitigation strategies.

Resource Management:

•  Assisting in the allocation and management of project resources, including budget, personnel, and materials.
• Coordinating with various departments or teams to ensure resource availability and efficiency.

Quality Assurance:

• Ensuring project deliverables meet quality standards and stakeholder expectations.
• Conducting evaluations and assessments throughout project execution.

Documentation:

•  Maintaining comprehensive documentation related to the project, including plans, schedules, budgets, and reports.
•   Supporting the process of project closure, including final reports and lessons learned documentation.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders and ensuring their needs and concerns are addressed.
• Collaborating with different teams to ensure alignment and coordination on project goals.

Budgeting and Financial Management:

• Assisting in developing project budgets and tracking expenditures.
• Reporting on financial performance related to project activities.

Compliance and Governance:

• Ensuring that project activities comply with organizational policies, procedures, and legal regulations.
• Supporting audits and compliance checks as required.

Capacity Building and Training:

• Identifying training needs for team members and supporting capacity-building initiatives.
• Facilitating workshops, training sessions, or seminars related to the project.

Qualifications:

• Atleast a Bachelor’s degree in Project Management /Commerce /Business Administration or related fields.
• Have solid knowledge of cement and concrete
• Have a good publication record in peer-reviewed journals, commensurate with their research experience.
• Having prior experience with running a project would be an added advantage.
• Proven experience in project management or a related role.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana, Trello).
• Be available to start the Project Officer position immediately.

Key skills/ Personal attributes required include:

• Strong analytical, organizational and communication (in English, both oral and written) skills.
• Highly motivated and independent with strong research skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Be a person of integrity and a keen eye for details.