Senior Project Manager

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS Afghanistan has been operational for over 20 years, focusing on delivering projects and services that enhance the lives of individuals in need across the country. The organization aims to provide efficient and cost-effective implementation services on behalf of various partners, contributing to humanitarian responses and the overall development of Afghanistan. UNOPS Afghanistan Country Office (AFCO) serves as a mechanism for delivering a wide range of projects across sectors such as humanitarian aid, basic human needs, infrastructure, and HR services, with a mission to exceed stakeholder expectations in all circumstances.

Job Overview:
The Senior Project Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Project for Community-led Climate Change Adaptation in Afghanistan, which aims to enhance community resilience against climate change through infrastructure development and capacity building. This role involves managing project outputs within specified tolerances of time, cost, quality, scope, risk, and benefits. The Senior Project Manager will create implementation plans, understand legal agreements, and ensure that project outputs align with the business cases of UNOPS and its partners. The position requires maintaining high standards of quality, health, safety, and sustainability while managing diverse infrastructure projects, including check dams and irrigation systems. The Senior Project Manager will also be responsible for stakeholder engagement, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with various partners and beneficiaries.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and update implementation plans, ensuring milestones are established and adhered to.
• Manage project outputs, ensuring compliance with quality requirements and initiating corrective actions as necessary.
• Liaise with external suppliers and manage acceptance and delivery of work packages.
• Monitor project progress, controlling changes and identifying potential risks, advising senior management accordingly.
• Prepare and adapt plans for approval by the Project Board, managing reporting obligations and maintaining project files.
• Manage budgets and cash flow, ensuring timely payments to contractors and personnel.
• Prepare regular project and financial reports, evaluating performance criteria and maintaining progress diaries.
• Develop stakeholder profiles and engagement strategies, coordinating internal communications and monitoring effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with audit requirements and coordinate quality reviews of project documents. 1
• Lead and motivate the project management team, ensuring performance reviews are conducted fairly and timely.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant discipline such as International Relations, Development Studies, Project Management, Architecture, or Civil Engineering. A Bachelor's degree combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted. Certification in Project Management (e.g., PRINCE2, PMI) is an asset, as is professional certification from an accredited institution. Candidates should also complete UNOPS PMM training within three months of joining.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in a relevant field is required. A Bachelor's degree with additional relevant work experience may be considered. Certification in Project Management is advantageous, and candidates are expected to complete specific UNOPS training upon hiring.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of experience in implementing complex projects or programs is required, with specific experience in managing infrastructure projects being an asset. Experience in developing countries or post-conflict environments is preferred, along with technical acumen in project planning and execution. Familiarity with health and safety procedures, procurement strategies, and risk management is also beneficial.

Languages:
Full working knowledge of English is essential. Knowledge of another official UNOPS language is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as an International Individual Contract Agreement (IICA) at level I-IICA 3, ICS 11, with an ongoing contract duration subject to organizational requirements and satisfactory performance. Kabul is designated as a non-family duty station, and candidates should be aware that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments. UNOPS is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, ensuring an inclusive working environment for all employees.