Project: Periodic Maintenance/Rehabilitation of Golomoti-Monkey Bay/Mtakataka Turnoff (M10) Road to Bitumen Standard (30km Lot 1)
Location: Dedza district, Malawi (site based)
Report to: Project Manager
Job Summary
We are looking for an experienced Social Expert to join our M10 road project team. You will be responsible for all community and social related matters on site, ensuring smooth relationship between the project, local communities, government authorities and other stakeholders, and full compliance with Malawi environmental and social regulations as well as Roads Authority requirements.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Dedza
- Category: Community Development
- Closing Date: 2026-08-10
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain regular communication with local village chiefs, community leaders, district council and government authorities (Environmental Affairs Department, District Valuation Office etc.)
- Act as the first point of contact for all community inquiries, complaints and grievances related to the project
- Establish and manage a transparent project grievance mechanism for local communities
- Coordinate with relevant authorities for property and crop compensation for affected communities before construction starts
- Assess and document land, property and crop damages caused by construction activities, and follow up on fair compensation
- Manage temporary land use for construction camps, borrow pits and detour roads, including community consultation and compensation
- Support the development and implementation of the Project Environmental and Social Management Plan (PEMP)
- Monitor construction impacts on local communities (dust, noise, traffic disruption, crop damage, access to water etc.) and work with construction team to put mitigation measures in place
- Ensure compliance with all Malawian laws on social, environmental and labour matters
- Coordinate with local health authorities to implement HIV/AIDS awareness and public health programs for project staff and surrounding communities
- Identify and protect cultural, historical and traditional sites along the road alignment (including graves, sacred sites etc.)
- Follow proper procedures if any archaeological or historical artefactare found during construction
- Prepare regular social performance reports for project management, the Roads Authority and supervision consultants
- Keep proper records of all community meetings, compensation payments, grievances and resolutions
- Conduct social induction training for all new project staff on community relations and local cultural norms
Requirements
- Minimum Diploma/Degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Sociology, Community Development or related field
- At least 2years working experience in social/community relations role on road construction or infrastructure projects in Malawi
- Good understanding of Malawi environmental and social regulations, Roads Authority ESG requirements
- Fluent in English and Chichewa (both written and spoken)
- Strong communication and negotiation skills, ability to work with rural communities and resolve conflicts
- Willing to be based full time on theGolomoti Dedza project site, not Lilongwe office
- Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, grievance management, and compensation processes.
- Proficiency in basic computer skills (Word, Excel) for report preparation and documentation.
How to Apply
Please indicate “Social Expert – M10 Project” in your email subject line.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
About the Company
Unik Construction Engineering (M) Ltd is a prominent civil engineering and infrastructure development firm actively operating within Malawi. Specialising in road construction, bridge building, and other critical infrastructure projects, the company plays a vital role in connecting communities and facilitating economic growth across the nation. They have been instrumental in significant national undertakings, including the rehabilitation of major road networks like the Mzuzu-Nkhata Bay road and various projects for the Mpatamanga Gorge Hydro Power Project. Committed to delivering high-quality and sustainable engineering solutions, Unik Construction Engineering (M) Ltd significantly contributes to Malawi's developmental landscape.
Delivering essential infrastructure and road networks across Malawi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What typical qualifications or educational background is expected for a Social Expert role in Malawi, especially within the construction sector?
A Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Community Development, Environmental Management, or a related field is typically required. Practical experience in community engagement, stakeholder relations, and social impact assessment is highly valued by employers in Malawi.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Social Expert working with a construction engineering company in Malawi?
Daily tasks often involve community liaison, conducting social impact assessments, managing grievance mechanisms, and implementing social management plans. This role requires significant fieldwork to engage directly with local communities and stakeholders affected by construction projects.
What is the local work culture like, and what are the key expectations for a Social Expert within a Malawian construction company?
The work culture emphasizes respect for local customs, strong interpersonal skills, and adaptability when engaging diverse communities. Employers expect professionals to be proactive in problem-solving and adept at cross-cultural communication.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Social Expert working in the community development or construction sector in Malawi?
A Social Expert can advance to Senior Social Expert or Social Manager roles, overseeing larger projects or teams. Opportunities may also arise in environmental and social governance (ESG) leadership or consultancy within the broader development sector.
What typical benefits package can a Social Expert expect from a construction engineering company in Malawi?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave, sick leave, and contributions to a pension scheme as per Malawian labor laws. Many employers also provide medical aid coverage, though the specifics can vary significantly by company.