Construction Specialist

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 employs a passionate workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, fostering a culture of inclusivity and growth, and providing attractive compensation and benefits.

Job Overview:
The Construction Specialist will play a crucial role in managing and overseeing construction activities within UNICEF's programs. This position involves preparing annual work plans for construction, collaborating with UNICEF programs and government counterparts, and ensuring the effective execution of construction projects. The specialist will be responsible for preparing design and technical documents, supporting procurement processes, and monitoring construction projects to ensure compliance with UNICEF standards and project timelines. The role requires a strategic approach to project management, with a focus on achieving programmatic goals that directly impact children's lives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Preparation of Construction Annual Workplan: Develop and monitor the annual work plan for construction activities, ensuring alignment with UNICEF's goals and performance standards. Coordinate human and financial resources within the construction unit, supervise staff, and facilitate knowledge sharing.
• Collaboration with UNICEF Programs: Provide technical support for construction project management, assist in developing community infrastructure proposals, and ensure integration of construction activities into program plans.
• Preparation of Design and Technical Documents: Create scopes of work, apply UNICEF norms to construction projects, and ensure compliance with local regulations and standards.
• Support to Procurement Process: Assist in preparing procurement documents, conduct market surveys for potential contractors, and evaluate technical proposals.
• Monitoring of Construction Projects: Conduct site visits, monitor project progress, ensure compliance with safety standards, and manage contract administration.
• Impact Assessment: Evaluate the effectiveness of construction activities in achieving UNICEF's programmatic goals and maintaining the organization's credibility as a responsible fund manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in civil engineering, construction engineering, architecture, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with relevant professional certification is acceptable. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in project management, site supervision, and quality assurance is required, along with a strong understanding of development and humanitarian work. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to manage complex situations, communicate effectively, and supervise teams.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in civil engineering, construction engineering, architecture, or a related area is required. A first-level university degree in conjunction with a valid professional certification may be accepted. Candidates with a first-level degree and two additional years of relevant experience may also qualify in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience at national or international levels in project management, site supervision, and quality assurance is essential. Candidates should have a solid understanding of construction project cycles and experience in development and humanitarian contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in French and English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international recruitment. UNICEF offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must adhere to UNICEF's zero-tolerance policy on misconduct and undergo rigorous background checks. Mobility is a condition of employment, and all staff may be called upon to support humanitarian responses.