Infrastructure Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is an operational arm of the United Nations, dedicated to implementing projects and providing services in support of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development efforts. Established in 1973, UNOPS has grown to employ thousands of personnel across various countries, focusing on delivering sustainable solutions in infrastructure, procurement, and project management. The organization operates in over 80 countries, working closely with governments, international organizations, and local communities to enhance their capacities and improve the quality of life for people in need. UNOPS is committed to promoting peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and sustainable development through its projects, ensuring that they align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Infrastructure Specialist will play a crucial role in the ongoing peace project in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), specifically focusing on the 'Fund for Peacebuilding - FCP' initiative. This position involves providing technical support for the planning, implementation, monitoring, and closure of infrastructure projects funded by KfW (German Development Bank). The Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the Senior Project Manager and will coordinate closely with national partners, local authorities, and UNOPS technical teams. The primary expectation is to ensure that infrastructure projects, such as schools, health centers, and community facilities, are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with quality standards and contractual commitments. The role also emphasizes the importance of building social cohesion and preventing youth violence through improved infrastructure and access to social services.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Planning, Implementation and Management of Infrastructure Projects: The Infrastructure Specialist will support the technical and operational planning of various infrastructure projects, including reviewing or preparing project documents, schedules, procurement plans, and cost estimates. They will participate in the preparation of tender documents and contribute to the technical evaluation of bids in coordination with the procurement team. Monitoring the performance of contractors and service providers is essential to ensure adherence to contractual obligations. Regular site visits will be conducted to monitor construction progress and ensure compliance with technical, environmental, and social standards. The Specialist will also facilitate technical coordination with local stakeholders to ensure smooth project implementation.
• Quality Assurance, Technical Monitoring and Project Closure: The Specialist will ensure the application of quality and safety standards during construction works in line with UNOPS and KfW requirements. They will support the implementation of quality control plans, environmental and social management plans (ESMPs), and HSSE measures. Contributing to the technical review and validation of deliverables, such as technical drawings and site reports, is also part of the role. The Specialist will assist in documenting technical and administrative project components and participate in the handover process of completed infrastructure to beneficiaries.
• Coordination, Technical Communication and Capacity Building: Providing technical advice to the Senior Project Manager and stakeholders on construction options and cost optimization is a key responsibility. The Specialist will participate in technical coordination meetings and contribute to the training and capacity building of national staff or local partners in infrastructure project management and quality standards.
• Cross-Cutting Contributions and Organizational Compliance: The Specialist will mainstream resilience, accessibility, environmental sustainability, and gender sensitivity in the design and implementation of infrastructure projects. They will ensure compliance with UNOPS policies related to project management, procurement, and environmental and social safeguards, and contribute to the preparation of technical and narrative reports for the donor and other stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master’s degree in an infrastructure-related field such as engineering, architecture, or construction management. Alternatively, an additional 2 years of relevant work experience, preferably in combination with certification in project management or infrastructure management, may substitute for the master’s degree. Additional qualifications in project management, such as PRINCE2® Foundation or PMP®, are highly desired. Candidates should possess a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in coordination, planning, and managing works in the design and construction field, with management experience of large-scale infrastructure projects in complex environments being preferable. Experience administering FIDIC contract documents is an asset, as is previous experience in developing countries.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in an infrastructure-related field such as engineering, architecture, or construction management is required. Candidates with additional relevant work experience and certifications in project management may be considered in lieu of a master’s degree. Additional qualifications in project management methodologies, such as PRINCE2® or PMP®, are highly desired and will enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the coordination, planning, and management of works in the design and construction field. Management experience of large-scale infrastructure projects in complex environments is preferable. Experience with administering FIDIC contract documents is an asset, and previous experience in developing countries is also beneficial. Proficiency in Gsuite, databases, and the internet is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in French (both oral and written) is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Proficiency in English is also necessary. Knowledge of Lingala or other local languages is considered an asset and may enhance communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA), specifically at the International Individual Contractor Agreement level (IICA2). The contract duration is ongoing and open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. The position is based in Kinshasa, which is designated as a family duty station. Candidates should be aware that UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post. Additionally, all UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions.