Driver - Office Assistant

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), a CGIAR Research Center, is seeking a multi skilled candidate to contribute to our mission in Tashkent, Uzbekistan as a Driver - Office Assistant.

The Driver - Office Assistant will work with a team of staff at IWMI to support the delivery of multiple projects at the Uzbekistan office. The Driver - Office Assistant contributes to the success of the IWMI projects by providing support to staff and partners in the IWMI Uzbekistan Office.

The incumbent will be responsible for delivering effective and efficient services by providing general office support with a variety of administrative and clerical duties and providing transportation services for the staff and visitors, delivery of documents, mail, and packages in IWMI-owned vehicles to field sites and other destinations as required. The Driver - Office Assistant will step into the role of the Office Assistant and/or Driver as and when necessary.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide safe and efficient transportation services to staff and visitors who are duly authorized to use IWMI transport in a polite and courteous manner.
• Assist with and ensure the safety and security of passenger baggage, files, documents, parcels and any other item that may be carried in IWMI vehicles.
• Inspect thoroughly and ensure the vehicle being driven, whether it's a pool vehicle or otherwise, is in a clean (inside and outside) and safe driving condition; Inspection should include, but not be limited to, fuel, oils and lubricants, battery water, brake fluid, tire pressure, wipers, and any discrepancies should be attended to prior to driving the vehicle.
• Be considerate of other road users to ensure the safety of all parties involved.
• Maintain written records in the common “Vehicle Maintenance Register” of all defects observed in respect of a specific vehicle, with a brief description, duly signed and dated, with time indicated. Such entries are to be brought to the formal attention of the A&F Manager.
• Record and maintain the “Vehicle Trip Tickets” accurately as per the given guidelines regarding the start and completion times of assignments, destinations, as well as the kilometres covered. Update the required spreadsheets and databases in a timely manner.
• Ensure that no unauthorized person or baggage/parcel is carried on any IWMI vehicle. If in doubt, seek immediate clarification from the A&F Manager before undertaking any such assignment.
• Remain updated on Uzbekistan and Central Asia countries driving regulations, and ensure the vehicles are roadworthy, insured, and meet the official requirements and documentation of the Uzbekistan transport authorities.
• Responsible for arranging and coordinating project meetings with relevant stakeholders and providing logistical support for these meetings as required.
• Manage office and scientific equipment, ensuring that it is in proper order and readily available for researchers to take to the field when required.
• Assist the office administration team in procuring project-related supplies (e.g., visiting the market to arrange samples and quotations) to ensure cost-effective and efficient procurement.
• Collect and deliver mail, documents, packages, and other office supplies, as well as provide general office support including supervising any janitorial staff messenger tasks, minor purchases, bill payments, and photocopying.
• Perform minor office repairs and maintenance tasks as needed.
• Undertake any other tasks that may be assigned as required.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Essential,

• Certificate of Complete Secondary Education, Junior Specialist Diploma or an equivalent educational qualification.
• Valid driver's license in categories B and C.
• Minimum of 7 years of work experience, including at least 3 years of relevant office administration experience and a minimum of 3 years of driving experience.
• Experience driving on a variety of road surfaces, including motorways, urban and rural roads, and unpaved roads requiring 4WD.
• Good recommendations from previous employers as a driver & office assistant. (Note: The applicant will provide references and contact details, and IWMI will seek references independently.)

Desirable,

• Driving experience in Central Asia will be highly advantageous.
• Similar experience in an international environment is highly preferred.
• Valid driver's license in categories D & E.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Essential,

• Excellent driving skills with a variety of vehicles, including passenger cars, and SUVs, and a good understanding of modern vehicle technology such as satellite navigation, CVT, ABS/BA/EBD, and auto-lock wheel hubs.
• Good computer skills that include proficiency in MS Office package.
• Sound understanding of spoken and written Russian/Uzbek and basic knowledge of English.
• Basic mechanical/handyman skills, e.g., using an electric drill, etc.
• Strong ability to maintain records in an accurate and timely manner.
• Strong service approach with an emphasis on the safety of the public and passengers, as well as the safety of assets.
• Ability to demonstrate a presentable, courteous, and professional demeanor.
• Personal attributes such as high standards of conduct, respect, flexibility, and sound work ethics.
• Thorough knowledge of the Uzbekistan (and Central Asian countries) traffic rules.

Desirable,

• Knowledge of other Central Asian languages is an asset.

Benefits

This is a nationally recruited position and only Uzbekistan nationals will be considered. IWMI offers a competitive salary and benefits package, inclusive of health insurance, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, and long-term disability coverage. The duration of the contract will initially be for a period of three years with the possibility of extension.

HOW TO APPLY: Apply for the position by following the application instructions at www.iwmi.org/jobs. We will be accepting applications through 24:00 (IST) on November 29, 2024 (applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis). Your application must include a CV, cover letter, and three (3) references, which may be contacted if you are shortlisted. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

IWMI believes that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We offer a multi-cultural, multi-color, multi-generational and multi-disciplinary working environment. We are consciously creating an inclusive organization that reflects our global character and our commitment to gender equity. We, therefore, encourage applicants from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, and gender identities.