Electrical 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 and civil society, to implement the Habitat Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 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 local governments to formulate and implement effective urban policies that are socially equitable and environmentally sustainable. The agency emphasizes the importance of transforming cities into safer, more inclusive, and resilient places, particularly for the urban poor.

Job Overview:
The Electrical Engineer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of projects aimed at improving urban infrastructure and housing in the Izidora neighborhood of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. This position involves close collaboration with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams to ensure the successful execution of electrical and telecommunication projects. The engineer will be responsible for analyzing and reviewing architectural and engineering designs, setting standards for electrical projects, and providing technical guidance to project teams. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. The engineer will also be expected to participate in meetings, prepare technical reports, and ensure compliance with quality standards throughout the project lifecycle.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Electrical Engineer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Analyzing and reviewing architectural and engineering projects related to electrical facilities and telecommunication systems.
• Establishing parameters and standards for electrical projects and atmospheric discharge protection systems.
• Evaluating technical studies and designs to ensure they meet required specifications.
• Reviewing preliminary designs and basic projects for electrical facilities, ensuring they adhere to structural and material specifications.
• Preparing detailed reports and technical analyses on project designs.
• Applying advanced analysis techniques to propose innovative solutions to engineering challenges.
• Collaborating with designers, planners, and architects to produce necessary technical documentation.
• Participating in team meetings and providing technical support as needed.
• Completing required training and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security courses as mandated by UN-Habitat. 1
• Ensuring all produced materials are organized and accessible for future reference.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or have an equivalent of four years of relevant experience beyond the basic educational requirement. A bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering is also necessary. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in electrical and atmospheric discharge protection system projects. Experience in urbanization of informal settlements and previous work within the UN System is highly desirable. Strong computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, and familiarity with BIM and AutoCAD Civil 3D, are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a postgraduate degree (lato or stricto sensu) in Electrical Engineering or a related field. A bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering is also mandatory. Candidates with additional relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal educational qualifications, particularly if they have significant experience in the field.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least six years of progressively responsible experience in electrical engineering, specifically in projects related to electrical systems and atmospheric discharge protection. Experience working in the context of urbanization of informal settlements is preferred, as is prior experience within the UN System, which would provide valuable insights into the organization's operational frameworks and project management methodologies.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is required for this position, as it is the primary working language in Brazil. Additionally, a working knowledge of English or Spanish is desirable, given that English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, while Spanish is used in the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
This position is based locally in Brazil, and only nationals or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The contract is expected to last for six months, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability and performance. The consultant will be compensated at a rate of BRL 6,126, with payments structured based on the successful delivery of project milestones. The consultant must also be available for travel within Brazil as required by the Head of the Brazil Office, with travel expenses covered by UN-Habitat according to UN travel guidelines. All applications must be submitted in English and include a cover memo, educational background, and professional experience details. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.