Driver- Humanitarian Scale Up job at Plan International

About the Organization

Plan International started working in Uganda in 1992 to respond to the needs of children affected by a guerilla war in Luwero district.

Since then we have worked alongside communities on many different issues to improve millions of children’s lives.

Our work is aligned with the Global Goals, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and Uganda’s second National Development Plan. Gender equality and the empowerment of girls and women are at the centre of our work.

Job Description

Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organisation that advances children’s rights and equality for girls. We believe in the power and potential of every child but know this is often suppressed by poverty, violence, exclusion and discrimination. And it is girls who are most affected.
Working together with children, young people, supporters and partners, we strive for a just world, tackling the root causes of the challenges girls and vulnerable children face. We support children’s rights from birth until they reach adulthood and we enable children to prepare for and respond to crises and adversity. We drive changes in practice and policy at local, national and global levels using our reach, experience and knowledge.
For over 85 years, we have rallied other determined optimists to transform the lives of all children in more than 80 countries. We won’t stop until we are all equal.
This role is responsible for driving PIU vehicles in accordance with the transport policy and procedures in order to enhance mobility of staff for efficiency and effectiveness. The Driver provides transport services for staff and visitors, is required to think ahead in order to envision the best route, anticipate hazards, and to attend to the needs of travellers.

Duties and Responsibilities

Transportation and Logistics

Staff Transportation: Safely transporting staff to various locations as required for humanitarian operations.
Goods and Supplies Delivery: Delivering goods, equipment, and supplies to designated locations, ensuring timely and accurate delivery.
Emergency Response: Being available for emergency transportation needs and participating in emergency response activities as required.

Vehicle Maintenance and Safety

Vehicle Inspections: Conducting regular inspections and maintenance of vehicles to ensure they are in good working condition.
Safety Checks: Performing safety checks before and after trips, including checking fuel levels, oil, tires, brakes, and other critical components.
Repairs and Servicing: Arranging for repairs and regular servicing of vehicles, maintaining a log of maintenance activities.

Documentation and Reporting

Trip Logs: Maintaining accurate trip logs, including details of destinations, mileage, fuel consumption, and any incidents.
Vehicle Records: Keeping detailed records of vehicle maintenance, repairs, and servicing.
Incident Reporting: Reporting any accidents, breakdowns, or safety issues promptly to the relevant authorities.

Compliance and Safety

Adherence to Policies: Complying with the organization's driving policies and procedures, including safety and security protocols.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring compliance with local traffic laws and regulations.
Security Protocols: Following security protocols, especially in high-risk areas, to ensure the safety of passengers and cargo.

Operational Support

Logistical Support: Assisting with logistical operations, including loading and unloading of goods and equipment.
Field Support: Providing support to field teams as needed, including participating in field assessments and distributions.
Communication: Maintaining effective communication with supervisors and field teams to coordinate transportation needs.

Qualification, Experiences and Competencies

Educational Requirements

High School Diploma: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.
Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license appropriate for the type of vehicle being driven (e.g., car, truck, bus).

Professional Experience

Driving Experience: Several years of experience as a professional driver, preferably in a humanitarian or NGO context.
Humanitarian Experience: Experience working in humanitarian settings or challenging environments is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies

Driving Skills: Excellent driving skills, with a clean driving record and knowledge of defensive driving techniques.
Vehicle Maintenance: Basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance and the ability to perform minor repairs.
Navigation Skills: Proficiency in navigating through various terrains and using GPS or maps for route planning.
Communication Skills: Good communication skills to interact with staff, vendors, and local authorities.
Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills, especially in dealing with unexpected road conditions or vehicle issues.
Physical Fitness: Physical ability to handle loading and unloading of goods and equipment.

Personal Attributes

Reliability: High level of reliability and punctuality.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing schedules and operational demands.
Calm Under Pressure: Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure, particularly in emergency situations.
Attention to Detail: Keen attention to detail in maintaining logs and adhering to safety protocols.

Additional Considerations

Security Awareness

Security Training: Understanding of and training in security protocols, especially in conflict or high-risk areas.
Risk Management: Ability to assess and mitigate risks related to transportation in volatile environments.

Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural Awareness: Sensitivity to cultural differences and ability to work respectfully in diverse environments.
Local Knowledge: Familiarity with local geography, road conditions, and customs can be an advantage.