Job Summary
- Employer: Lower Gwayi Sub-Catchment Council
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Hwange, Zimbabwe
- Category: Water Resources Management
- Closing Date: 2026-10-18
Key Responsibilities
- Overseeing the legal allocation, processing and monitoring of both ground and surface water use permits within the hydrological boundary.
- Leading environmental frameworks to mitigate land degradation, control pollution and regulate users discharging effluent into natural water bodies.
- Supervising the billing, assessment and collection of sub-catchment water rates, user fees and statutory levies to maintain financial self-sufficiency.
- Supervising internal departments that include Water Resources, Finance and Administration, and setting key performance targets to foster staff productivity.
- Serving as the chief mediator in resolving localised, water-related disputes and allocation conflicts between communities, mining operations and commercial entities.
- Educating local communities and commercial consumers on sustainable water utilisation practices, water conservation techniques and regulatory requirements.
- Managing departmental staff performance, training and development in line with NDS2 and Vision 2030.
- Liaising with government departments, consultants, contractors and other stakeholders on water management issues.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences, Geography and Environmental Science, Civil or Water Resources Management, Business Management, Commerce or any relevant qualification.
- A qualification in Integrated Water Resources Management or any water-related field is an added advantage.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Project Management (MPM), or Master’s in Environmental Policy or Strategic Management is an added advantage.
- Must have a minimum of 5 years’ working experience in water resources management at the Sub-Catchment level or higher.
How to Apply
Address: hand deliver to our offices at:
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Subcatchment Manager role in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a degree in Water Resources Management, Hydrology, Environmental Science, or Civil Engineering from a recognized Zimbabwean university such as the University of Zimbabwe or NUST. Professional registration with the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers (ZIE) or Institute of Water and Environmental Management is highly advantageous. Additional certifications in GIS, water quality monitoring, or catchment management strengthen your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Subcatchment Manager?
Daily tasks include monitoring water abstraction and usage within the subcatchment, conducting field inspections of rivers and boreholes, and enforcing water permit compliance. You will liaise with farmers, mining companies, and local authorities to resolve water allocation disputes. Administrative duties involve preparing reports for the parent catchment council and maintaining water user databases.
How does local work culture in Zimbabwe's water sector affect this role?
The role demands extensive community engagement and respect for traditional leadership structures, including consulting with chiefs and rural district councils before implementing decisions. Punctuality and relationship-building are valued, as stakeholder trust is essential for effective water regulation. You should expect to travel frequently to remote areas, often on poor road infrastructure, and adapt to seasonal pressures during the rainy season.
What career progression opportunities exist for Subcatchment Managers in Zimbabwe?
With experience, you can advance to Catchment Manager overseeing larger geographic areas or move into senior roles at the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) or the Ministry of Environment. Some professionals transition into consultancy work or academic positions at local universities. Specializing in climate change adaptation or integrated water resources management opens doors to regional and international organizations operating in Southern Africa.
What benefits are typically offered for this type of position in Zimbabwe?
Public sector and council positions usually include pension contributions through the Local Government Pension Fund, modest medical aid schemes, and statutory annual leave of 21 days. Some employers provide housing allowances or official vehicles given the extensive travel requirements. Benefits vary significantly between rural council posts and those with donor-funded projects, which may offer additional allowances.
How should I apply for a Subcatchment Manager position, and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize?
Applications are typically submitted through the Public Service Commission, local authority websites, or newspaper advertisements in The Herald and Chronicle. Employers prioritize candidates with demonstrated field experience, community engagement skills, and knowledge of Zimbabwe's Water Act and relevant regulations. A well-prepared application should include certified academic certificates, a clean driver's license, and references from previous supervisors in the natural resources sector.
