Project Officer

1. POSITION VACANT: Project Officer, Sightsavers India, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

2. ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:

Sightsavers India has been operating for over 57 years since its establishment in 1966 in India. Throughout its history, it has made a significant impact in the field of eye health and disability inclusion. The organisation has played a crucial role in preventing avoidable blindness and promoting disability inclusion. Sightsavers India has conducted numerous eye health programs, surgeries, and treatments, reaching millions of people in need.

3. JOB DESCRIPTION/ RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reporting to the State Programme Lead (SPL), Maharashtra, the Project Officer (PO) will oversee project implementation across the state. S/he will manage partnerships, ensure activities align with MoUs, and collaborate with government departments and agencies at the district level for effective programme execution.

The PO will support implementing partners in planning, execution, documentation, and capacity building while ensuring compliance with donor requirements, including timely and quality reporting. S/he will assist the SPL in managing state programmes efficiently, demonstrating scalable model approaches, and exploring opportunities for programme expansion and sustainability.

Working within existing policy frameworks and with partners, the PO will contribute to developing and implementing high-quality, cost-effective programmes aligned with Sightsavers India’s strategic plan and national development goals. S/he will also represent Sightsavers India at the state level, engaging with stakeholders to advance its vision.

Key Job Responsibilities:

A. Program Implementation & Coordination

(1) Ensure smooth implementation of projects as per agreements with partner organizations;

(2) Work closely with government departments and other agencies at the district level;

(3) Support partners in planning, execution, documentation, and capacity building;

(4) Assist in developing and expanding programs for long-term sustainability;

(5) Ensure compliance with program guidelines, donor requirements, and timelines.

B. Monitoring & Reporting

(1) Conduct regular field visits to monitor project progress and assess impact;

(2) Review and ensure timely submission of monthly, quarterly, and annual reports;

(3) Document best practices, lessons learned, and success stories for wider dissemination;

(4) Support the preparation of government and major donor reports;

(5) Ensure adherence to reporting timelines and quality standards.

C. Partnership Development & Networking

(1) Identify and develop strategic partnerships to enhance program impact;

(2) Represent Sightsavers India in relevant forums, networks, and stakeholder meetings;

(3) Support the selection and assessment of implementing partners;

(4) Assist in proposal writing and development of new strategic programs;

(5) Facilitate linkages between program activities and relevant government initiatives.

D. Financial Oversight & Compliance

(1) Monitor partner financial reports and ensure timely submission;

(2) Ensure efficient utilization of project budgets and compliance with financial policies;

(3) Support the preparation of annual budgets and financial forecasts;

(4) Work closely with finance teams to ensure accountability in fund management;

(5) Assist in financial reviews, audits, and necessary compliance reporting.

E. Organizational Learning & Development
(1) Contribute individual and country-level experiences to broader organizational learning;

(2) Support policy development by sharing insights from fieldwork and program implementation;

(3) Collaborate with internal teams to align programs with organizational priorities;

(4) Participate in internal capacity-building initiatives and knowledge-sharing sessions;

(5) Ensure documentation and dissemination of innovative program approaches for scaling up.

As a dynamic organization, Sightsavers India may require flexibility in this role, with tasks subject to change. Additional responsibilities may be incorporated into the job description in consultation with the employee.

4. QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCIES:

Qualification and Experience:
Applicants must have a postgraduate in management, social work, public health or social sciences from any recognized university.

Experience:
(1) Maximum two to four years of experience in social development, preferably in the field of programme management, implementation, monitoring, documentation and working with the communities and government;

(2) Fresh graduates with the relevant qualifications may also be considered, provided they demonstrate a strong understanding of the sector and a willingness to learn.
(3) Experience in developing and effectively managing programme partners.

(4) Prior experience working with Government/NGOs in rural and urban settings.

Skills and Competencies:

A. Technical Knowledge:

(1) Expertise in program planning and use of tools for designing quality projects across sectors.

(2) Strong knowledge of project management, budget development, monitoring, and resource management.

(3) Understanding of sensitization, research, impact assessment, partnership development, and resource mobilization.

B. Core Competencies:
(1) Empathy and sensitivity in engaging with target beneficiaries.
(2) Proven ability to identify critical programmatic issues, prioritize effectively, and take timely action.
(3) Results-driven with a track record of delivering impact at scale.
(4) Strong communication (verbal and written) and presentation skills.
(5) Familiarity in Marathi (reading, writing, and speaking) is mandatory.
(6) Adaptability, proactiveness, and a willingness to embrace new technologies.
(7) Strong skills in community mobilization and facilitation.
(8) Excellent liaison and networking abilities.
(9) Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
(10) Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
(11) Effective interpersonal skills.
(12) Proficiency in MS Office and digital tools.

5. COMPENSATION OFFERED:

Gross compensation budgeted for the position ranges from INR 6.2 - 7 lacs per annum. Please note that the offer made to the selected candidate shall be commensurate with qualifications, experience, and salary history.

6. LOCATION: Aurangabad, Maharashtra

7. REFERENCE: PO-SI

8. CONTACT INFORMATION:

Team SAMS
Strategic Alliance Management Services P Ltd.
1/1B, Choudhary Hetram House, Bharat Nagar 
New Friends Colony, New Delhi 110 025
Phone Nos.: 011- 4081 9900; 4165 3612

9. APPLICATION PROCESS:

Eligible candidates interested in the position can apply by or before March 20, 2025. Suitable candidates are likely to be contacted almost immediately given the urgency of the requirement.