Organization: International Rescue Committee (IRC)
Requisition ID: JR00002980
Location: Maiduguri, Borno State
Employment Type: Full-time
Application Closing Date: 21st April, 2026
THE ROLE OVERVIEW
The International Rescue Committee is seeking a technically skilled and proactive Maintenance Officer to join our Operations team in Maiduguri. In the humanitarian context, functional facilities and equipment are life-saving assets. You will be responsible for the effective repair, functionality, and preventive maintenance of IRC facilities and technical assets across Borno State. Your goal is to eliminate operational downtime through strategic planning, rigorous inspections, and rapid response.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Technical Maintenance & Operations
- Preventive Strategy: Develop and execute maintenance schedules to reduce equipment failure; conduct routine inspections and proactive structural repairs.
- Specialized Systems: Lead the installation, servicing, and repair of HVAC systems (ACs, refrigerators, water dispensers) and Power Systems (Generators, Solar Inverters, and Grid connections).
- Fuel Management: Coordinate diesel distribution to various facilities; manage generator fueling and maintain meticulous consumption records.
- Structural Oversight: Maintain electrical systems, plumbing, furniture, and building fittings including roofs, doors, and windows.
2. Logistics & Supply Chain Support
- Contractor Supervision: Monitor and supervise third-party vendors and contractors to ensure work meets IRC quality standards.
- Reporting: Prepare weekly and monthly reports on fuel usage, maintenance expenses, and activity logs.
- Compliance: Identify and report any procurement deviations; ensure all technical work aligns with IRC safety standards and local regulations.
3. Team & Risk Management
- Safety: Mitigate identified technical risks and maintain a safe working environment for all staff.
- Collaboration: Work closely with Supply Chain, Operations, and Program teams to resolve maintenance requests promptly.
CANDIDATE SPECIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
- Degree: Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil), Supply Chain Management, or a related technical field.
- Experience: Minimum of 3 years in humanitarian supply chain or maintenance-specific roles.
- Technical Proficiency: Strong knowledge of engineering principles; proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel is critical for fuel/expense tracking).
- Advantage: Professional certification with relevant Nigerian regulatory bodies.
Core Competencies
- Language: Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in local languages (Hausa, Kanuri, Shuwa, or Fulani) is a significant advantage.
- Resilience: Ability to work effectively in challenging and evolving security environments like Borno State.
- Integrity: Strong commitment to the IRC Way (Ethics and Professional Conduct).
Success Blueprint: Maintenance Officer (IRC Maiduguri)
To succeed as an IRC Maintenance Officer in a complex field location like Maiduguri, you must balance technical expertise with administrative discipline.
1. The Power Hybrid Challenge
IRC facilities in Borno often rely on a mix of Grid power, Diesel Generators, and Solar systems.
- Success Factor: You must be comfortable managing Solar Inverter systems and tracking Generator Fuel Efficiency. If a generator is consuming more fuel than usual, you are the person expected to diagnose why and fix it.
2. Proactive vs. Reactive
Most people think maintenance is about “fixing things when they break.” At IRC, success is measured by Preventive Maintenance.
- Interview Tip: Be prepared to describe how you develop a “Preventive Maintenance Schedule.” How do you ensure an Air Conditioner is serviced before it stops working during the peak heat season?
3. Supply Chain Integrity
As a Maintenance Officer, you will work closely with the Supply Chain team.
- The IRC Way: You must be vigilant about “Procurement Deviations.” If a contractor uses sub-standard materials, it is your responsibility to report it immediately.
- Paperwork: Maintenance at IRC is 50% technical and 50% documentation. You must keep detailed logs of every liter of diesel and every spare part used.
4. Language and Context
Maiduguri is a multicultural hub.
- Local Insight: While English is the official language, your ability to speak Kanuri or Hausa will be your greatest asset when supervising local contractors or communicating with community-based technicians.
5. Essential Prep for Candidates
- [ ] Technical Portfolio: Be ready to discuss specific HVAC and electrical projects you have led.
- [ ] Excel Skills: You will likely be tested on your ability to manage a maintenance budget or a fuel tracker in Excel.
- [ ] Safety First: Review standard occupational health and safety (OHS) protocols for electrical and structural work.
Your technical skill ensures the safety and comfort of those who serve the community. Good luck!
METHOD OF APPLICATION
Interested and qualified candidates should apply via the IRC Careers portal using the Requisition ID JR00002980.
IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability.
