Structural Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is dedicated to promoting sustainable development of human settlements and policies that ensure adequate housing for all. Established to address urbanization challenges, UN-Habitat collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to foster urban development that is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The organization operates globally, with a significant focus on Latin America and the Caribbean through its Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. UN-Habitat has expanded its portfolio in Brazil, working with multiple government tiers to implement effective urban policies that are socially equitable and environmentally sustainable. The agency emphasizes the importance of community engagement and aims to transform urban areas into safer and more integrated spaces for all residents.

Job Overview:
The Structural Engineer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of UN-Habitat's projects, particularly focusing on the urban development of informal settlements. This position requires collaboration with operational and technical teams to ensure that structural engineering projects meet established standards and guidelines. The engineer will be responsible for evaluating and reviewing structural designs, preparing technical reports, and providing guidance to various stakeholders involved in the project. The role is vital in addressing the urgent needs of communities like Izidora, where the aim is to improve infrastructure and housing conditions for vulnerable populations. The engineer will also be expected to apply advanced analysis techniques to propose innovative solutions to architectural and engineering challenges, ensuring that the projects align with the principles of sustainability and resilience outlined in the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Structural Engineer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: 1) Setting parameters, standards, and requirements for structural engineering projects; 2) Establishing guidelines for evaluating technical studies and structural projects for buildings and bridges; 3) Evaluating and reviewing basic structural engineering projects, focusing on structural systems, sizing, executive techniques, materials specifications, and control; 4) Reviewing program layouts, 3D modeling, façade elements, and preliminary architectural designs; 5) Preparing reports and technical analyses on architectural and engineering projects; 6) Applying advanced analysis techniques to propose solutions to architectural and engineering problems; 7) Analyzing and proposing changes to technical drawings to ensure quality standards; 8) Providing technical guidance to designers, planners, engineers, and architects; 9) Collaborating with team members to prepare necessary technical documents; 10) Participating in meetings with the technical team; 11) Performing any other technical support tasks as required; 12) Completing all required training and courses, including the BSAFE security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security course from UNDSS during the first month of employment; 13) Ensuring compliance with United Nations security mechanisms and maintaining personal security.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree in Structural Engineering or related fields, or have an additional four years of relevant experience beyond the basic requirements. A bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related fields is also required. The position demands a minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in structural projects, with experience in urbanization of informal settlements being desirable. Previous experience within the UN System is also considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in computer skills, including Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, and specialized software for modeling and simulation of structures. Familiarity with AutoCAD Civil 3D and Building Information Modeling (BIM) is advantageous. Competencies such as professionalism, planning and organization, communication, teamwork, and knowledge management are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a postgraduate degree (lato or stricto sensu) in Structural Engineering or a related field. Alternatively, candidates may qualify with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field, combined with additional relevant experience. The emphasis is on advanced knowledge and skills in structural engineering principles and practices, as well as familiarity with urban development issues, particularly in informal settlements.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in structural engineering projects. Candidates should have a strong background in evaluating and implementing structural designs, particularly in the context of urbanization and informal settlements. Experience working within the UN System is desirable, as it provides insight into the organization's operational frameworks and project management strategies.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, given the local context of the projects. Additionally, working knowledge of English or Spanish is desirable, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, while Spanish is used in the Regional Office. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is expected to last for six months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funds. The consultant will be appointed on a local basis, and only nationals from Brazil or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The remuneration for this role is set at LICA 3 (7.5% part-time), totaling BRL 5,744, with payments structured around the delivery and approval of specific project outputs. The consultant must be available for travel related to project activities, with travel coordinated and financed by UN-Habitat according to United Nations travel guidelines. All applications must be submitted in English through the Inspira system, including a cover memo, educational background, professional experience, and other relevant information. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and all applications will be treated confidentially.