About the Organization
HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation is an independent international development organization committed to building inclusive and sustainable societies. With decades of experience across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, HELVETAS works to strengthen local systems, promote economic development, and improve access to essential services for underserved communities.
The organization partners with governments, universities, private sector actors, and civil society institutions to implement transformative programs that create long-term impact. Its work is grounded in participatory approaches, gender transformation, and market system development.
In Ethiopia, HELVETAS plays a significant role in advancing rural connectivity and infrastructure systems. Through projects such as TRAIL and the Rural Connectivity for Improved Food Security Program (RCFSP), the organization aims to improve rural transport networks and expand access to markets, health services, education, and economic opportunities.
Joining HELVETAS means becoming part of a professional and mission-driven team dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development. The organization values leadership, integrity, and continuous learning.
Job Description
The Project Manager will provide overall leadership for programmatic, operational, administrative, and financial implementation of assigned regional projects. The role ensures that project objectives, outcomes, and outputs are achieved effectively and in alignment with approved program documents and donor requirements.
The position holder will lead the Project Management Unit (PMU) and oversee the preparation and implementation of the Annual Plan of Operation (APO). The manager will ensure that all activities follow project cycle management principles, gender transformation approaches, and market system development strategies.
The Project Manager will supervise and support regional project staff, fostering a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing team culture. Building the technical and managerial capacity of staff will be a core responsibility.
The role includes overseeing recruitment, work planning, performance management, and professional development of the regional team. The Project Manager will ensure staff are motivated, supported, and aligned with the project’s strategic direction.
The position holder will coordinate closely with regional governments, universities, TVET institutions, private consulting and design firms, and other stakeholders to create an enabling environment for improved rural transport connectivity.
The Project Manager will represent HELVETAS in operational implementation at the regional level and maintain strong relationships with government departments at woreda, zonal, and regional levels.
Regular reporting to the Program Manager on progress, risks, challenges, and strategic developments will be required. The manager will ensure transparency and timely communication across all stakeholders.
The role involves facilitating joint planning and coordination among partners to strengthen rural connectivity and improve access to essential services in underserved communities.
Financial oversight is a major responsibility of this role. The Project Manager will prepare and manage the annual regional budget, monitor monthly expenditures, and ensure compliance with donor and organizational financial requirements.
The manager will oversee contracts and partnership agreements, ensuring transparency, accountability, and value for money.
Monitoring, learning, and knowledge management will be central to the role. The Project Manager will ensure strong reporting systems are in place, lessons learned are documented, and best practices are shared across programs.
The role also contributes to the Rural Access and WASH Learning and Innovation working area, promoting evidence-based programming and adaptive management.
This position provides a unique opportunity to influence rural infrastructure systems, strengthen institutional partnerships, and create sustainable improvements in access and connectivity for rural populations.
Educational Qualification
Master’s degree in Development Studies, Project Management, Engineering, or another discipline relevant to rural connectivity and access.
Specialization in engineering, rural transport systems, or infrastructure management is highly desirable.
Work Experience
At least 10 years of relevant professional experience in development work within an NGO setting.
Minimum of 4 years of experience serving in a Project Manager role or leading large, multidisciplinary teams.
Proven experience in rural road or rural transport sector programs.
Demonstrated commitment to gender transformation and inclusive development approaches.
Experience managing donor-funded projects and working with government partners is required.
Required Skills and Competencies
Strong project management and construction management expertise.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, Publisher, and PowerPoint.
Knowledge of GIS applications is an advantage.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
Fluency in Somali language is preferable based on duty region requirements.
Demonstrated leadership ability with a track record of inspiring, mentoring, and empowering teams.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively at all organizational levels.
High integrity, flexibility, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently under pressure.
This position offers substantial professional growth opportunities. The selected candidate will gain high-level leadership experience, exposure to multi-stakeholder coordination, and involvement in large-scale rural connectivity initiatives.
The role provides a platform to shape regional development strategies, influence policy dialogue, and build sustainable systems that improve livelihoods for rural communities.
Job Location
Jigjiga, Ethiopia, with frequent field visits to project implementation areas.
Employment Type and Salary
Full-Time Position
Minimum salary: 102,976 ETB per month (Negotiable based on qualifications and experience).
HELVETAS offers a competitive benefits package in line with organizational policies and donor regulations.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their application letter and updated CV via email to HumanResources.ETH@helvetas.org.
Please clearly indicate “Project Manager” and the duty station in the subject line of your email application.
Scanned certificates and additional attachments are not required at this stage of the application process.
The application deadline is March 4, 2026.
Female candidates and individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. HELVETAS is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further selection processes.
If you are a strategic leader passionate about rural connectivity, inclusive development, and sustainable infrastructure systems, this role offers an opportunity to create lasting impact while advancing your professional career in international development.