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Job Description
The USAID funded Water Efficiency and Conservation Activity (USAID WEC) project in Jordan, implemented by Tetra Tech International Development (International Development Jobs - Tetra Tech), is currently accepting expressions of interest for an Agricultural Drainage Water Expert for a short-term technical assignment (STTA). This position will be located in the main office in Amman.
Position Description/Summary: USAID WEC is seeking the services of a team of consultants to conduct a technical study for the cultivated areas in the Jordan Valley (North of the Dead Sea) equipped with drainage networks to explore the utilization potential of using this source of water to make it possible for irrigation use. The consultant will coordinate with JVA, local authorities, farmers, and relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful completion of the study and the applicable recommendations. The findings of the pre-feasibility study will provide initial evidence or indicators for the JVA decision-makers on the potential utilization of non-conventional water sources which will contribute to improving the management and allocation of irrigation water in Jordan Valley. The assignment will require a team of consultants consisting of an International Agricultural Drainage Water Expert (Team Leader), and a local Water Resource and Environment Expert (with familiarity with the Jordan Valley water resources and irrigation management). The duration of this assignment is expected to be 4 months. Level of Efforts:
* International Agricultural Drainage Water Expert: Total LOE (30 days)
* Trip 1 (The start of the assignment): 12 LOE days including, 10 working days in Jordan and 2 traveling days.
* Trip 2 (Presenting the final report): 5 LOE days including 3 working days in Jordan and 2 traveling days. * In addition, 13 LOE days in the consultant’s home country.
Responsibilities:
The assignment will undertake the following tasks under the supervision of the WEC project:
* Field Survey and Data Collection – Conduct field visits to various locations (around 44 sites) in the Jordan Valley to collect drainage water samples and measure flow quantities for all sites. JVA will provide support during the site visits and water sampling. Collect site coordinates to be used in mapping the drainage water collection sites. Interview at least 5 local farmers, water management authorities, and other stakeholders to gather insights and quantitative and qualitative data. (At least 10 interviews for all stakeholders including farmers).
* Data Analysis and Interpretation – Interpret the drainage water quality analysis results to determine their suitability for irrigation purposes. It is the responsibility of the consultant to determine the sampling locations and the tested parameters. Develop a site-specific analysis of drainage water quantities and quality. Develop a drainage water collection locations geodata base map. Develop scenarios for the integration of drainage water into the existing water management systems. Reference existing case studies, reports, and data on drainage water utilization from other countries similar to Jordan conditions, as applicable. Assess the viability, potential benefits, and risks associated with the reuse of drainage water, with a focus on the potential impacts of using drainage water on the soil and crops grown in the area. Suggest possible technologies for the treatment and reuse of drainage water. Provide initial costing for different scenarios of drainage water use (pump to the canal or pump to the irrigation distribution network or other scenarios based on consultant findings).
* Reporting and Recommendations – Compile findings into a comprehensive report. Provide clear recommendations for the utilization of agricultural drainage water. Suggest infrastructure development or changes needed to support the implementation of recommendations. Suggest policy and legislative changes needed to support the implementation of recommendations. Develop a roadmap for the practical implementation of proposed strategies.
Job Requirements
Minimum Qualifications Required:
* Minimum bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, water resources management, irrigation engineering, or a related field required; advanced degree is preferred.
* With a master’s degree must have a minimum of 7 years of experience in irrigation engineering including water quality assessment, drainage network design, or irrigation systems. With a bachelor’s the minimum is 10 years.
* Demonstrated experience working in arid or semi-arid regions, particularly with agricultural water management in the Middle East. Good knowledge of the Jordanian agricultural sector or similar context.
* Advanced knowledge of English and Arabic languages. Proven experience writing technical reports in English.
* Preferred experience in evaluating and designing systems for water reuse, particularly in agriculture.
* Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with various stakeholders with diplomacy and tact.
* Ability to travel to Jordan, as needed.
* Team player and able to work independently.
To be considered, please submit the following:
* Cover Letter
* CV in reverse chronological format
Please note that candidates who are shortlisted for the position will be asked to provide writing samples.