Senior Project Officer I- Hydro geologist – Ground-water Design & Exploration Drilling Supervisor Full Time NEW

ETHIOPIAN AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION INSTITUTE

Position: Senior Project Officer I- Hydrogeologist – Ground-water Design & Exploration Drilling Supervisor

Employment: One year with the possibility of extension

Duty Station: Addis Ababa-Secondment to MoWE (with potential travel to project sites)

Required Number: One

Application Deadline: November 19/2025

BACKGROUND:

The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), formerly known as the Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA), is a strategy and delivery-oriented government institute created to help accelerate the growth and transformation of Ethiopia’s agriculture sector, which is a key contributor to the country’s GDP, exports, and workforce. The ATI’s work is center on improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers (SHFs) across the country for improved income, inclusiveness, resilience, and sustainability.

The ATI works to transform the agriculture sector in Ethiopia by conducting policy and analytical studies, providing technical implementation support and capacity building, coordinating. platforms to better integrate partners and projects and designing and directly leading several innovative/pilot interventions. The Institute joins forces with various stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, farmers, and development partners, to support the implementation of agricultural development programs and initiatives. In addition, the ATI collaborates with national and international partners to facilitate knowledge exchange and learning opportunities. The Institute plays a crucial role in generating and disseminating information to support evidence-based decision-making in Ethiopia’s agricultural sector.

Our Culture

We have an exceptional team of highly competent employees with a proven track record of success in managing complex activities and achieving transformational results. Our culture is one where talented, dedicated, and adaptable individuals are committed to doing their best and exhibit great teamwork to achieve excellent results.

At ATI, we provide an exceptional platform for people who want to achieve their highest potential and make a meaningful contribution in changing the country’s agricultural sector. We offer rewarding work in a young, fast-paced growing organization with passionate, committed, motivated colleagues and excellent career development and training. We recognize our most valuable assets are our staff and are committed to providing our employees with the tools, training, and mentorships necessary to achieve their career goals.

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-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