Water Sanitation and Hygiene Educator

Sanitation specialists, public health workers, and recent graduates are needed to in the highlands of Peru to support safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene improvements.

Access to clean water and proper sanitation is essential for health and well-being, yet many rural communities in Peru face challenges maintaining safe water systems and adopting hygiene practices. Aging infrastructure requires work, but little or no funding is available to make repairs. Training is needed to support local water technicians and rural water service providers so they can effectively carry out water maintenance and management tasks, especially after staff departures. In addition, there is a lack of public awareness about how consumption affects water availability, and the importance of access to safe drinking water.

As a Water Sanitation and Hygiene Educator, you’ll collaborate with local leaders, schools, and health professionals to strengthen the water system management and promote hygiene education. Your work will help communities improve water infrastructure, adopt safe practices like handwashing and water treatment, and build resilience for a healthier future. By equipping families and schools with knowledge and tools, you’ll contribute to breaking cycles of waterborne disease and create lasting change.

Associate degree in any field and at least two years of full-time, post-high school work experience (from any combination of roles).
OR
Bachelor's degree in any field.
OR
High school diploma or GED and four years of full-time, post-high school work experience (from any combination of roles).

All candidates who meet the required skills are encouraged to apply. Additional skills that may make you a more competitive candidate include:

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Lead water system inspections with community leaders to identify potential risks.
Drive actions that guarantee clean water and keep facilities running smoothly.
Deliver hands-on training in the field to local water authorities on system administration operation and maintenance.
Boost processes that strengthen sustainability and improve service efficiency.
Promote smart water use and good hygiene practices among community members.
Support local organizations in launching projects that encourage healthy habits and protect the environment.

You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as English clubs and after-school sports.

As a Water Sanitation and Hygiene Educator, you will be trained to support good water management and sanitary education. Peace Corps Peru will teach you Spanish to help you comfortably live in and connect with the community. You might also receive language resources and learn Quechua, a local language in some Andean communities.

After 10.5 weeks of training, you will move to a rural community where you will collaborate with organizations, such as local governments, local water committees, local public schools, health posts to assess the local needs and develop solutions based on sustainable water management and best hygiene practices.

Volunteers in Peru typically live with a Peruvian host family in very small to mid-sized towns, with access to local organizations and small businesses. Communities may range from 1,000 residents to larger district hubs where Volunteers engage with surrounding rural villages. Volunteers can expect basic amenities, limited internet access, and frequent travel by foot, bicycle, or public transport to reach organizations.

Gain valuable, field-based experience in identifying and improving water and sanitation issues in rural communities.
Sharpen your Spanish language skills through daily conversations and collaborations.
Create a lasting impact while immersed in Peruvian culture.