Senior Education Expert

Positive Action for Development (PAD) is one of the most vibrant, rapidly expanding, and results-driven civil society organizations in Ethiopia. PAD is currently scaling up its interventions across the humanitarian, NEXUS, and development spectrum—expanding operations throughout the country, including in Addis Ababa, Amhara, Oromia, Harari, Afar, Somali, Tigray, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Ethiopia’s southern regional states. As PAD broadens its reach, it remains firmly committed to inclusive, equitable, and conflict-sensitive programming—respecting the diverse realities of communities while fostering peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.

Vision: PAD strives to see a community of hope, humanity, and social justice.

Mission: PAD brings people together to work in partnerships; promotes hope, humanity, and social justice for every human life in all its fullness; and improves the livelihoods of disadvantaged groups for social and inclusive economic growth by actively engaging in positive actions, promoting responsive care and support, and addressing the root causes of poverty in Ethiopia.

General Overview

This document outlines the standard roles and responsibilities associated with the Senior Education Expert position at Positive Action for Development (PAD). The descriptions provided are not exhaustive, and the post holder may be required to undertake additional duties that align with the key responsibilities described herein. These roles and responsibilities are also subject to change based on organizational needs.

Job Summary

The Senior Education Expert provides high-level technical leadership, oversight, and coordination for education initiatives, with a specific focus on Education in Emergencies (EiE). Based at the Head Office with frequent field travel, the Expert ensures that all project activities are delivered in accordance with project design, humanitarian standards, and donor requirements. This role involves leading advocacy efforts, supervising technical education components, and ensuring integrated service delivery for conflict-affected communities.

Duties and Responsibilities

The key roles and responsibilities for the Senior Education Expert include, but are not limited to:

1. Project Implementation & Technical Leadership

• Lead the design and development of education policies, guidelines, and project proposals for the Senior Management Team (SMT).
• Serve as the primary Sector Lead for Education and EiE, ensuring high-quality technical standards.
• Organize and facilitate trainings, workshops, and community dialogues in collaboration with field staff and stakeholders.
• Ensure all project activities integrate gender, disability, protection, and “Do No Harm” principles.

2. Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting & Learning (MERL)

• Conduct regular field visits to monitor activity implementation, quality of educational services, and adherence to work plans.
• Prepare and submit timely and accurate daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports to the Program Manager.
• Document case studies, success stories, and lessons learned to inform program improvement and reporting.
• Maintain organized and secure project documentation, including activity reports and training records.

3. Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy

• Manage high-level lobbying and advocacy efforts with government authorities, donors, and educational clusters.
• Represent the organization in relevant coordination forums and promote collaboration with other actors.
• Establish and maintain strong working relationships with grassroots government structures and community representatives.

4. Team Supervision & Capacity Building

• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and on-the-job training to field staff and project focal persons.
• Conduct regular team meetings and technical reviews to promote a collaborative and accountable team environment.
• Utilize ToT (Training of Trainers) certification to build local capacity and improve educational delivery.

  5. Compliance & Accountability

• Enforce compliance with donor requirements, organizational policies, and ethical guidelines, including PSEA and data protection.
• Monitor project expenditures to ensure education activities align with the approved budget.

6 Core Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.
• High level of cultural sensitivity and adaptability.
• Commitment to humanitarian principles and survivor-centered approaches.

Education:

• Master’s Degree in Education or a related field is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in project coordination within the NGO sector, with a focus on Education and EiE.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data management tools.

Mobility:

• Willingness and ability to travel frequently to field locations