Вакансія: Head Driver
Position Title: Head Driver
Duty Station: Kyiv
Type of Appointment: Employment
Estimated Start Date: ASAP
Closing Date: September 07, 2025 23:59 Ukraine Time
Salary: 68,000 UAH Gross
About APOPO:
APOPO is an award-winning Belgian NGO established in 1997 and currently operating in 11 countries. APOPO’s mission is to protect the people and the planet using scent-detection animals. The organisation trains and deploys rats and dogs in humanitarian missions such as the detection of explosives, diseases, illegal trafficking and search & rescue. APOPO currently has over 300 operational animals, most of which are working in Mine Action, which makes it the largest animal detection operator in the sector.
About APOPO in Ukraine:
Since the Russian invasion of 24th February, Ukraine has been severely affected by landmines, cluster munitions and other explosive remnants of war. The scale of the conflict and the use of high impact and indiscriminate weapons requires an urgent and extensive response. APOPO aims to accelerate the reduction of suspected hazardous areas in Ukraine using its Technical Survey Dog Teams. APOPO registered in Ukraine in 2023. APOPO’s dog training centre is established in Krasylivka, and the operations will be conducted in partnership with Mines Advisory Group, in areas prioritized by the government. The main offices of APOPO Ukraine are in Kyiv.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
Head Driver is responsible for vehicle management which consist of 20 vehicles (including fuel usage, vehicle servicing, and maintenance) and for supervising the drivers of the APOPO Ukraine program. The Head Driver will keep accurate records of all matters related to vehicle management and will be responsible for the procurement of vehicle components in liaison with the APOPO Logistics Department, as well as for vehicle registrations/insurance, incident reports, and other related tasks as needed. Oversee the team of drivers ensuring that standards are maintained across the team. Responsible for the safe transportation of APOPO staff, visitors and materials in line with all APOPO policies and national driving laws.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Fleet & Driver Management
- Manage and coordinate the work of the driving team.
- Address any performance or conduct issues in line with APOPO policies and procedures.
- Ensure that drivers are working in line with APOPO policies and procedures, including servicing their vehicles, logging travel and working to APOPO standards.
- Develop rotas and work plans that ensures that adequate driver cover is available in line with operational requirements.
- Ensure vehicle keys are handed in at the end of each shift.
Driving & Vehicle Maintenance
- Drive assigned vehicles to locations within operational area as instructed in a safe and responsible manner.
- Conduct daily inspections of vehicles and equipment (e.g. by checking oil, water, battery, brakes, tires, etc.) and report any maintenance or safety issues to the Program Manager.
- Maintain assigned vehicles in safe and operational condition and keep the vehicle clean and tidy and ready for use at all times.
- Report any issues affecting the security and road access in the area of operations to the Program Manager as soon as possible.
- Oversee timely repairs of vehicles and equipment.
Administration & Records
- Maintain accurate daily records of vehicle movements: times, passengers, purpose, fuel consumption, and distance travelled.
- Ensure the availability of all required documents and supplies, including vehicle insurance, vehicle logs, first aid kit, and necessary spare parts.
- Handle registration and insurance processes for new vehicles.
- Detailed monitoring of the consumption of fuel purchased on the fuel cards and comparing this to the logbook records for the vehicles.
- Assist with logistics and administrative tasks such as filing, labelling, counting, etc.
Logistics & Stock Control
- Oversee the issuing and receiving of spare parts and equipment.
- Monitor stock levels, anticipate needs, and forecast procurement requirements.
- Support loading and unloading of goods and equipment at base and in the field.
ABOUT YOU:
We are seeking a candidate with:
- Valid driving license.
- At least three years of professional experience in a similar role.
- Experience coordinating a small team.
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and time management skills.
- Good command of English.
- Ability to maintain accurate records and follow administrative procedures.
- Knowledge of basic vehicle mechanics and maintenance standards.
- Reliable, punctual, and flexible in approach to work.
- Ability to work calmly under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Strong sense of responsibility and safety awareness.
- Adaptability to changing operational needs.
- Secondary education required; further training in logistics, fleet management, or related field is an advantage.
How to apply:
This opportunity is available to Ukrainian nationals only. Interested candidates are invited to submit applications by sending a CV and Cover Letter to the email [відгукнутися] by September 07, 2025.
Applications will be reviewed on rolling basis and position could be assigned prior to closing date if we find a suitable candidate.
Due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we are not able to respond to every application. If you have not heard back from us within 3 weeks of applying, it will mean that your application has not been successful.
Please note that this post is subject to background checks before an offer of employment is confirmed.