Location: Dedza
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: 2026-08-08
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 the Golomoti 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical educational qualifications and certifications needed for a Social Expert role in Malawi?
A Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Community Development, Sociology, or a related field is commonly required for this role. Relevant postgraduate qualifications or certifications in project management, monitoring and evaluation, or specific social development areas can also be highly advantageous.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Social Expert working in community development in Malawi?
Daily tasks often involve conducting community needs assessments, facilitating participatory workshops, and engaging with local leaders and community members to understand social dynamics. You would also develop and implement social intervention strategies, monitor project impacts, and prepare progress reports for stakeholders.
What are key aspects of the local work culture and expectations for a Social Expert in Malawi, particularly concerning community engagement?
Malawian work culture emphasizes respect, strong interpersonal relationships, and a collaborative approach, especially when working directly with communities. Building trust and demonstrating cultural sensitivity are paramount, often requiring patience and active listening during community consultations.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Social Expert in Malawi's community development sector?
You can progress to senior roles such as Senior Social Expert, Project Coordinator, Program Manager, or Monitoring and Evaluation Officer within NGOs or government departments. Specialization in areas like gender, youth, or environmental social impact can also open up expert consulting opportunities.
What typical benefits, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, can a Social Expert expect from employers in Malawi?
Most reputable employers offer standard benefits including annual leave, sick leave, and often a basic medical aid package. Some organizations, particularly larger NGOs or government entities, may also provide pension contributions, housing allowances, or transport facilitation depending on the role and project location.