Responsible for providing strategic leadership and technical oversight for the management of rural potable water systems in Belize by coordinating with and supporting the functions and operations of rural water boards. The position ensures the delivery of safe, reliable, and sustainable water services through effective system monitoring, water quality management, infrastructure planning, and ensuring the efficient utilization of approved project resources and budgets.
1. PROVIDES technical oversight to ensure water quality regulations and consumption demands are met by working with Rural Community Development Officers to assess production and consumption levels, production inputs (chemicals, electricity), and water quality parameters as the need arises; reviews and evaluates the work methods and procedures of water boards to ensure their effectiveness in maintaining operations.
2. OVERSEES the operations of the Rural Water Systems countrywide by ensuring waterboards maintain adequate water supply and delivery to rural communities/villages, including confirming that quality standards are met (quality, quantity, security, and pressure); liaises and collaborates with Rural Community Development Officers as necessary.
3. ENSURES water boards maintain and operate water treatment, storage, transmission, distribution, and disinfection systems in accordance with established technical and public health standards through inspections, site visits, and performance monitoring.
4. COLLABORATES with rural transformation personnel, as required, to develop and implement strategies and operational plans that ensure the continuous functionality and reliability of major water production, treatment, storage, and distribution systems, equipment, and facilities during periods of peak demand.
5. COORDINATES the preparation and presentation of project cost estimates, and budget projections to support the procurement of equipment, materials, tools, and supplies required for rural water infrastructure projects and operational initiatives.
6. MONITORS approved spending and budgeting adjustments to ensure projects are delivered within financial parameters and realistic timeframes to meet established goals and objectives; recommends budget adjustments and reports significant financial variances to the Director.
7. LEADS the development, review, and enhancement of policies, regulations, standards and internal controls applicable to water boards overseen and supported by the Ministry to ensure accountability, transparency, and regulatory compliance.
8. ENSURES the timely preparation and delivery of financial reports by water boards in accordance with Ministry requirements and established deadlines and follows up on outstanding documents as necessary; monitors revenue and expenditure figures of water boards to ensure sustainable financial management.
9. PREPARES and submits monthly, quarterly, and annual operational and performance reports, including Key Performance Indicator (KPI) reports, incident reports, and special reports, and recommends corrective actions where performance targets are not achieved.
10. SUPPORTS the coordination and delivery of emergency potable water services to rural communities affected by water shortages, infrastructure failures, or other service disruptions by assisting the Coordinator of Rural Water Services with emergency planning, resource mobilization, response implementation, etc., to ensure public access to safe water services.
11. MAY REPRESENT the Ministry in meetings with water boards, government agencies, development partners, contractors, and community organizations regarding rural water initiatives.
Must be in possession of a recognized Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or related discipline.
At least five (5) years’ supervisory experience.
A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience in water utility operations, rural water supply management, public utility administration, civil or environmental engineering, infrastructure development: project management, or related fields.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Demonstrated knowledge of rural water production. treatment, storage. and distribution systems, with a sound understanding of water quality testing procedures and public health standards governing potable water. Good knowledge of the water boards supported by the Ministry including their functions, governance. and operational responsibilities. Working knowledge of financial and accounting principles and terminology, with the ability to prepare project cost estimates and analyze, interpret, and monitor budgets and financial reports. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills. with the ability to identify and resolve practical problems. exercise sound judgment and make informed decisions in situations where limited standardization exists. Excellent oral and written communication skills. including the ability to prepare clear, accurate, and professional reports, correspondence and technical documentation. Ability to read, interpret and apply safety regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, technical specifications, and procedural manuals. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, Project, and PowerPoint, with the ability to effectively utilize these tools for data analysis, project management, reporting, and presentations.
REPORTING RESPONSIBILITY:
The Rural Water Services Manager will report to the Director of Rural Development.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
1. May travel outside of the station as required.
2. Be in possession of a valid Driver’s License.
3. Extra working hours may be required outside normal working hours and days.
CONDITIONS OF SERVICE:
The Conditions of service will be in accordance with the Belize Constitution (Public Service) Regulations, 2014, Financial and Store Orders, Finance and Audit (Reform) Act and any other instructions issued from time to time.
AGE LIMIT:
30 to 50 years