Engineering Oversight & Quality Assurance Services - International Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and sustainable development, making it a key player in international development efforts.

Job Overview:
The primary objective of this position is to provide engineering oversight and quality assurance services for civil works projects. The consultant will be responsible for offering technical support during the tender process to select a general contractor, which includes attending pre-bid meetings and evaluating technical bids. The consultant will also provide expert recommendations to the AMOS-RD project management unit and identify potential implementation risks along with mitigation strategies. Furthermore, the consultant will execute the project’s quality assurance/control (QA/QC) plan, ensuring that construction works comply with prescribed procedures, protocols, technical specifications, and industry standards. Regular site inspections will be conducted to monitor progress and adherence to approved plans and safety regulations, and the consultant will be required to submit monthly progress reports to the AMOS-RD management. The role also involves managing non-conformances, coordinating quality-related communications, maintaining comprehensive quality records, and verifying completed works for acceptance before project handover.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Providing technical support during the tender process, including attending pre-bid meetings and evaluating technical bids.
• Offering expert recommendations to the AMOS-RD project management unit.
• Identifying potential implementation risks and developing mitigation strategies.
• Executing the project’s QA/QC plan to ensure compliance with technical specifications and industry standards.
• Processing contractor submittals and verifying documentation such as method statements and inspection and test plans (ITP).
• Conducting regular site inspections to monitor construction activities and adherence to safety regulations.
• Submitting monthly progress reports to the AMOS-RD management.
• Identifying and managing non-conformances, issuing reports for deviations from project specifications, and tracking resolutions.
• Coordinating quality-related communications with project stakeholders. 1
• Maintaining meticulous documentation of all QA/QC activities, including inspection reports and certifications. 1
• Participating in final inspections and preparing snag/punch lists before project handover.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a set of specific qualifications, including:

• A degree in civil engineering or a related field.
• Professional certification in quality assurance or project management is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in engineering oversight and quality assurance in construction projects.
• Strong understanding of construction processes, standards, and regulations.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively convey technical information.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant educational background, specifically a degree in civil engineering or a closely related field. Advanced degrees or additional certifications in quality assurance, project management, or construction management will be considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have significant experience in engineering oversight and quality assurance, particularly in civil works projects. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the construction industry is preferred, with a proven track record of managing quality assurance processes and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Experience working with international organizations or in a consulting capacity will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all communications and documentation will be conducted in English. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the Solomon Islands or the Pacific region, would be considered a plus and may enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as an individual contractor role with a contract duration of 120 days over a period of 6 months. The consultant will be expected to work full-time during this period. The role is open to both national and international candidates, and compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Interested candidates must submit their proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline.