Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization supports the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems, contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice and support to countries, ensuring effective operations and adequate resources while adhering to international standards of accountability.

Job Overview:
The Engineer position is integral to the FAO's project aimed at improving countries' preparedness and response to emerging health threats, particularly in the context of veterinary and zoonotic pathogens. The role involves designing the physical infrastructure and technical specifications for the construction of a laboratory for the Ministry of Agriculture in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The Engineer will work under the supervision of the FAO Livestock Development Officer and will be responsible for conducting site assessments, preparing designs and layouts, developing technical specifications, and coordinating with stakeholders to ensure that the laboratory meets functional needs. This position requires a strong understanding of laboratory workflow, biosafety, and compliance with national and international standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Engineer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities including: conducting site assessments to evaluate existing infrastructure and logistical aspects relevant to laboratory operations; preparing design and layout plans that comply with laboratory workflow and biosafety requirements; developing technical specifications and producing drawings, bills of quantities (BoQs), and technical descriptions of materials; coordinating with the Ministry of Agriculture and FAO to ensure that designs meet functional needs; providing engineering support throughout the design and development phases; preparing and reviewing detailed engineering drawings and specifications; ensuring compliance with national building codes and FAO environmental and safety requirements; advising on construction materials and engineering solutions; contributing to cost estimates and procurement documentation; reviewing architectural and engineering submissions for technical accuracy; and collaborating with project managers and multidisciplinary teams to integrate technical requirements into design outputs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a graduate degree in Architecture from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO, along with at least five years of experience in building or laboratory design. Alternatively, an undergraduate degree with an additional two years of relevant professional experience may be considered. A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory. Candidates should also demonstrate familiarity with the work of international organizations and possess strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Educational Background:
The position requires a graduate degree in Architecture from an accredited institution. Candidates with an undergraduate degree may be considered if they have additional relevant professional experience. The educational background should include a strong foundation in design principles, engineering standards, and sustainable construction practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in the design of buildings or laboratories. Experience in preparing engineering drawings for construction projects, particularly in laboratory or specialized facilities, is highly desirable. Familiarity with national building codes and international engineering standards is also important, along with experience in cost estimation and procurement processes.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if relevant to the regions in which FAO operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The contract duration and seniority level may vary based on the specific project requirements and organizational needs. Candidates should be prepared to work independently with minimal supervision in a results-oriented environment, demonstrating professionalism and adaptability. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.