Construction Manager

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF has a workforce that reflects the diversity of the children it serves and is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Job Overview:
The Construction Manager will oversee the construction activities of the Burkina Faso country office, managing projects that include planning, procurement support, and monitoring of construction works on-site. This role involves collaboration with UNICEF Programme/Operations to define construction interventions that meet programmatic needs and provide technical support to government and partners. The Construction Manager will also be responsible for developing annual work plans, ensuring effective management of human and financial resources, and fostering knowledge sharing within the team. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances in the field of construction management.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Management of the construction unit, including developing annual work plans, determining priorities, and monitoring progress to ensure results are achieved.
• Supervision and coaching of unit staff, conducting weekly meetings, and ensuring clarity of roles.
• Collaboration with UNICEF Programme sections and government counterparts to provide technical support in construction project management.
• Preparation of design and technical documents, ensuring compliance with UNICEF norms and standards.
• Support to the procurement process by liaising with the Supply section and preparing tender documents.
• Monitoring of construction projects through regular site visits, technical meetings, and ensuring compliance with norms and standards.
• Certifying payments and variations, monitoring expenditures, and submitting financial status reports.
• Organizing and participating in the reception of works and ensuring contract close-out in VISION.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced university degree (Master's degree) in civil engineering, construction engineering, or architecture.
• A minimum of eight years of relevant experience in project management, site supervision, and quality assurance at national and/or international levels.
• Fluency in French (written and oral) is required, with good working knowledge of English being an asset. Knowledge of another official UN language is also desirable.
• Understanding of development and humanitarian work, with emergency experience considered an advantage.
• Prior experience with the United Nations System is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree) in civil engineering, construction engineering, or architecture. This educational background is essential for understanding the technical aspects of construction management and ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of eight years of relevant experience in project management, site supervision, quality assurance, or other directly related technical fields. This experience should ideally be gained at both national and international levels, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of construction processes and project management principles.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication in Burkina Faso. A good working knowledge of English is also required, as it may be necessary for communication with international partners and stakeholders. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary assignment, and candidates may be required to resign from their government positions if selected. UNICEF promotes a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and abuse. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and medical clearance is required. The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive workforce and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. UNICEF does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process.