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 is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of building careers that contribute to the welfare of children and communities globally.

Job Overview:
The Construction Specialist position at UNICEF involves providing technical expertise and coordination support for large construction initiatives, particularly focusing on the construction of the Center of Excellence in Baghdad. This role requires collaboration with the Ministry of Health and encompasses the full cycle of construction project management, including planning, design, technical oversight, procurement support, and on-site monitoring of works. The incumbent will work closely with UNICEF Programme/Operations to define construction interventions that meet programmatic needs and achieve results for children. The role is critical in ensuring that construction projects align with UNICEF's mission to promote child health and development, and it requires a proactive approach to managing relationships with government counterparts and other stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Construction Specialist include:

• Preparation of a comprehensive construction plan of action that aligns with UNICEF's objectives.
• Collaborating with UNICEF Programme teams and coordinating with government counterparts, particularly the Ministry of Health and KIMADIA.
• Preparing design and technical documents that adhere to approved standards and specifications.
• Following the design of the Center of Excellence as approved by KIMADIA and ensuring compliance with technical construction documents.
• Supporting the procurement process to ensure timely and efficient acquisition of necessary resources.
• Monitoring construction projects to ensure they are executed according to plans, timelines, and quality standards.
• Providing technical and advisory support to government and partners on construction project management, ensuring that all interventions are effective and sustainable.
• Engaging in regular communication with stakeholders to report on progress and address any challenges that arise during the construction process.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Construction Specialist position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• An advanced university degree (master’s degree) in civil engineering, construction engineering, architecture, or a relevant technical field is required.
• Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's) in a relevant technical field, combined with two (2) years of additional relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• A minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in construction project management, site supervision, quality assurance, or related technical fields is required.
• Proven experience in managing construction projects specifically for medical facilities and/or vaccines warehouses is essential.
• A solid understanding of development and humanitarian work is necessary to navigate the complexities of the role effectively.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced university degree (master’s degree) in civil engineering, construction engineering, architecture, or another relevant technical field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's) in a relevant technical field, along with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be considered equivalent to an advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the technical aspects of construction and project management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience at national and/or international levels in construction project management, site supervision, quality assurance, or other directly related technical fields. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing construction projects, particularly in the context of medical facilities or vaccines warehouses, demonstrating their ability to handle complex projects effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in both English and Arabic is required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate strong communication skills in both languages to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders. Additionally, knowledge of another official UN language (such as Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to work in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary assignment with specific conditions regarding contract duration and seniority level. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with the organization's aims, including discrimination and harassment. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and medical clearance is required for appointments. Additionally, candidates must comply with any vaccination requirements set by UNICEF, including those related to COVID-19.