Project Manager (Innovative Engineering for Safer Connectivity) at Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation

Project Manager (Innovative Engineering for Safer Connectivity)

Organization: Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation (Helvetas Tanzania) Project: Innovative Engineering for Safer Connectivity (IESC) Position: Project Manager (PM) Location: Morogoro, Tanzania Contract Duration: 2 Years (Renewable based on performance) Application Deadline: 02nd December 2025

About Helvetas Tanzania

Helvetas Tanzania is a renowned Swiss NGO registered in Tanzania, with head offices in Switzerland, Germany, and the USA. As a global development partner, Helvetas is currently active in 30 countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe.

In Tanzania, we are committed to implementing high-impact development projects focusing on three core areas:

• Skills, Jobs & Income (SJI)

• Voice, Inclusion & Cohesion (VIC)

• Water, Food & Climate (WFC)

We are looking for an enthusiastic, experienced, and strategic Project Manager to lead our latest infrastructure initiative.

The Project: Innovative Engineering for Safer Connectivity (IESC)

Helvetas is launching an exciting three-year initiative titled “Innovative Engineering for Safer Connectivity”, scheduled to run from January 2026 to December 2028.

The Challenge: Rural communities in Morogoro, Ulanga, Malinyi, and Mvomero Districts often face isolation due to geographical barriers and flooding. This lack of connectivity hampers access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets.

The Solution: The IESC project aims to bridge this gap. By constructing cost-effective and durable trail bridges, the project seeks to reduce risks from flooding, lower transportation costs, and save lives. A core component of this initiative is the collaboration with our Nepal-based technical partner, “Track for Change,” which is globally renowned for its expertise in trail bridge technology.

The Goal: The project emphasizes capacity building and the active engagement of local actors—including communities, Local Government Authorities (LGAs), and the private sector—in the planning, implementation, and maintenance of this vital infrastructure.

Role Overview & Key Responsibilities

The Project Manager (PM) will be the operational and strategic lead for the IESC project. You will be responsible for ensuring the project meets its ambitious goals of improving rural connectivity and strengthening resilience.

1. Strategic Planning & Implementation

• Take full responsibility for overall project achievement, including detailed planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of project activities.

• Ensure that the project timeline (2026–2028) is adhered to and that milestones regarding bridge construction and community engagement are met.

• Lead the “Innovative Engineering” agenda, ensuring that the infrastructure solutions provided are sustainable and appropriate for the Tanzanian context.

2. Technical Capacity Building & Knowledge Transfer

• Instill technical know-how on trail bridge construction by leading targeted capacity development programs.

• Facilitate training and mentorship for government institutions, the private sector, NGOs, educational institutions, and local communities.

• Collaborate with “Track for Change” experts to adapt Nepalese engineering success stories to the Tanzanian landscape.

3. Government Relations & Scaling

• Facilitate high-level engagement with the government to advocate for the continuation and scaling of trail bridge building.

• Position trail bridges as a recognized and viable means of safer connectivity for rural people, complementing the existing road network.

• Work closely with TARURA (Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency) to align project outputs with national infrastructure priorities.

4. Resource & Stakeholder Management

• Effectively manage all project resources, including personnel, financial budgets, and physical assets, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and Helvetas policies.

• Establish and maintain excellent relationships and regular exchange with a diverse range of stakeholders, from village leaders to national government officials.

Qualifications and Experience

To be considered for this pivotal role, candidates must demonstrate a blend of academic excellence and practical infrastructure management experience.

Academic Background:

• A Master’s degree in Project Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field from a recognized institution is mandatory.

• Asset: A specific focus or proven experience in managing infrastructure projects will be considered a distinct advantage.

Professional Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in the planning, design, and delivery of rural infrastructure in a similar context.

• TARURA & LGAs: Proven experience working with public sector actors, specifically TARURA and Local Government Authorities.

• Community Engagement: Demonstrated experience in community-led construction and labor-based infrastructure projects.

• Team Leadership: Experience in working with and building the capacities of multidisciplinary local teams drawn from government, civil society, and the private sector.

Key Competencies

• Leadership: Ability to lead a diverse team and manage complex partnerships (including international technical partners).

• Financial Acumen: Strong skills in budget management and resource allocation.

• Adaptability: Willingness to work in rural settings and engage with grassroots communities in Morogoro, Ulanga, Malinyi, and Mvomero.

Mode of Application

Helvetas Tanzania is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified and interested candidates are invited to submit their applications electronically.

Application Package Must Include:

1. Cover Letter: Outlining your motivation and relevant experience for this specific assignment.

2. Detailed CV: Maximum 4 pages, typed in Arial font size 10.5. The CV must include names and contact details of three referees.

3. Availability: An indication of your earliest availability and expected remuneration.

Background Check: Please note that the selected candidate will have to undergo checks related to criminal records, including child protection screening.

Submission Instructions: Applications should be submitted in PDF format via email.

Email: Recruitment-TZ@helvetas.org Subject Line: “Application – Project Manager” Deadline: 02nd December 2025

Address: Country Director HELVETAS SWISS INTERCOOPERATION Tanzania Country Office 2nd Floor, NBC Building, Nyerere Rd P.O. Box 2978, Dodoma, Tanzania

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps in the recruitment process.