The Hydrogeologist will be responsible for the following key activities, aligned with the project's tasks:

Task 1: Baseline Assessment & Preliminary Feasibility Screening

• Review existing hydrogeological data, groundwater trends, and secondary sources to assess aquifer conditions and vulnerability.
• Develop criteria for water resources vulnerability, incorporating hydrogeological factors such as aquifer depletion and recharge rates.
• Contribute to recharge potential mapping using hydrogeological, topographical, and land use data.
• Support preliminary MAR suitability mapping by integrating hydrogeological datasets with remote sensing and demographic information.
• Identify priority geographic areas based on hydrogeological viability, vulnerability, and population distribution.
• Assist in preliminary water balance assessments for priority areas, estimating aquifer storage and unmet demand.

Task 2: Technical Feasibility Study

• Lead aquifer characterization efforts, including field investigations to delineate unconfined aquifers, understand groundwater flow, storage potential, and hydraulic connectivity.
• Plan and conduct field tests, such as infiltration tests, pumping tests, and geophysical surveys, to validate recharge potential and aquifer suitability.
• Refine and update detailed water balances using verified field data.
• Confirm priority sites for MAR interventions based on hydrogeological, environmental, and social criteria.
• Collaborate on source water assessments, evaluating seasonal variability, pollution risks, and climate resilience impacts on aquifers.
• Support the development of community planning tools by providing hydrogeological insights for local understanding of aquifer recharge and sustainable use.
• Identify suitable MAR techniques (e.g., check dams, infiltration ponds, recharge wells) tailored to the local hydrogeological context.
• Contribute to preliminary engineering designs for MAR infrastructure, ensuring hydrogeological compatibility.

Task 3: MAR Strategy and Planning

• Translate hydrogeological findings into an integrated MAR and water security strategy, including watershed management measures (e.g., erosion control) and long-term hydrological resilience considerations.
• Provide technical proposals for MAR infrastructure adapted to local hydrogeological conditions.
• Participate in cost-benefit analysis and prioritization of hydrogeology-focused interventions.
• Contribute to the final technical report, including all hydrogeological maps, data (e.g., aquifer delineation, water balances), methodologies, field results, and recommendations.