The United States Embassy in Kenya is currently seeking experienced, reliable, and professional chauffeurs to join its motor pool team. This position involves providing exceptional driving services to authorized Embassy personnel and official visitors while ensuring safety, punctuality, and adherence to all operational standards. If you are an experienced driver with a passion for delivering quality service, this opportunity may be perfect for you.
Job Overview
As a chauffeur, you will play a crucial role in the daily operations of the General Services Office at the US Embassy. Your responsibilities will include driving various vehicles, such as passenger cars, light trucks, and buses, to ensure the smooth and secure transportation of Embassy personnel and goods. You will report directly to the Driver Supervisor and Dispatcher, working under their instructions to provide efficient, professional services.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
The role of a chauffeur at the US Embassy comes with diverse responsibilities designed to ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods. Below is an outline of the major duties:
1. Operating Embassy Vehicles
- Transport authorized Embassy employees signed up for ICASS Motor Pool services, as well as official visitors, within Nairobi and surrounding areas.
- Occasionally provide driving services to other regions in Kenya or even beyond Kenyan borders, as required.
- Operate light trucks or pickup trucks to deliver materials and equipment within the city and its environs.
2. Safety and Security
- Adhere to Department of State safety and security protocols at all times.
- Maintain constant vigilance, identifying and avoiding potential threats to ensure the safety of passengers.
- Be prepared to act swiftly in emergency situations, employing evasive driving techniques to protect passengers and direct them to a secure location.
3. Daily Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection
- Conduct thorough inspections of assigned vehicles each day to ensure they are clean and in optimal working condition.
- Check and maintain fluid levels (engine oil, radiator coolant, brake fluid, clutch fluid, and battery water).
- Verify the operational status of seat belts, tools, spare tires, and other essential equipment.
- Perform minor preventive maintenance and report any issues to the Dispatcher or Motor Pool Supervisor.
4. Record-Keeping
- Accurately complete daily motor vehicle usage records (OF-108 forms) for all trips and update the data in the Web-pass database promptly.
- Submit travel vouchers immediately after completing field trips.
5. Policy Compliance and Communication
- Stay informed about the Mission Policy regarding motor pool usage and report any misuse of vehicles by staff or co-workers.
- Remain aware of local driving conditions, such as traffic patterns, road construction, and demonstrations, to ensure safe and efficient routes are chosen.
- Be familiar with the locations of hospitals, police stations, and foreign missions to assist during emergencies.
6. Professionalism
- Wear the designated chauffeur uniform during working hours.
- Strictly avoid using mobile phones while driving.
- Ensure the official radio is functional during trips and is switched off at the end of each journey.
Additional Notes
This job description provides a general overview of the position but is not exhaustive. Additional duties may be assigned as needed by supervisors. Flexibility is crucial, as you may be required to work varying shifts, weekends, holidays, and undertake travel outside Nairobi or Kenya.
Qualifications and Requirements
1. Education
- Completion of high school is required.
2. Experience
- A minimum of three years of driving experience is essential.
- Experience in defensive driving techniques is an added advantage.
Note: Ensure your ERA application explicitly addresses your driving experience under the “Major Duties and Responsibilities” section.
3. Language Proficiency
- English: Level 3 (Good working knowledge) for speaking, reading, and writing.
- Kiswahili: Level 2 (Limited working knowledge) for speaking, reading, and writing.
Your language skills must be clearly outlined in your ERA application.
4. Job Knowledge
- Comprehensive knowledge of Kenyan traffic laws and regulations.
- Familiarity with Nairobi’s road network and traffic patterns.
Detail your understanding of these areas in your ERA application under “Major Duties and Responsibilities.”
Skills and Abilities
To excel in this position, the following skills and abilities are essential:
- Driving Proficiency: Demonstrate excellent skills during a road test, showcasing the ability to handle various vehicle types and drive defensively to prevent accidents.
- Accident-Free Record: Provide evidence of an accident-free driving history in Kenya for at least three years.
- Emergency Response: Possess the ability to communicate effectively via radio or cell phone and administer basic first aid in emergencies.
- Physical Fitness: Be in excellent physical health, with eyesight correctable to 20/20.
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications and basic typing skills are required.
- Background Checks: Pass a comprehensive background investigation and medical examination.
Work Conditions and Expectations
This position requires flexibility and a high level of commitment. You must be willing to:
- Work shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
- Travel to upcountry locations and potentially outside Kenya on official duty.
- Strictly adhere to all Embassy policies and safety guidelines.
Why Work at the US Embassy?
Joining the US Embassy team offers a unique opportunity to serve in a highly professional environment. You will be part of a team dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety, security, and efficiency. In addition, you will gain invaluable experience working within a global organization that values its employees and offers opportunities for growth and development.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications via the official Embassy recruitment portal. Make sure to address all outlined qualifications and requirements in your application, particularly your experience, language proficiency, and knowledge of Kenyan traffic laws.
This is an excellent opportunity to leverage your driving expertise in a professional and rewarding role. Apply now to become part of the US Embassy team in Nairobi and contribute to their vital mission.
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Take your career to the next level by applying for this prestigious position. The US Embassy is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion.