SSA Project Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO aims to achieve universal health coverage, protect people from health emergencies, and promote healthier populations.

Job Overview:
The SSA engineer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Project Engineer will work under the supervision of the Technical Officer for Climate Change and Health at the WHO Kiribati Country Liaison Office. This role involves implementing Climate Resilient and Environmentally Sustainable Healthcare Facilities (CRESHCF) interventions in target healthcare facilities located in the outer islands of Kiribati. The engineer will provide technical inputs for planning, ensure compliance with building codes and quality standards, and oversee the monitoring and evaluation of the CRESHCF implementation. The incumbent is expected to work independently while having the ability to escalate complex issues to the supervisor and the Country Liaison Officer (CLO). The position requires a proactive approach to project management, including conducting needs assessments, developing work plans, and coordinating with local ministries to ensure successful project execution.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide overall technical support in planning, coordinating, and monitoring the implementation of CRESHCF interventions, including renovations of healthcare facilities, installation of solar energy systems, and retrofitting rainwater harvesting systems.
• Conduct needs assessments for planned CRESHCF interventions and develop detailed work plans that include tasks, timelines, resources, and budgets.
• Assist the project team in drafting the Agreement for Performance Work (APW) and Request for Proposal (RFP) for tender advertisements, providing technical advice to the WHO Procurement Committee during the evaluation of tender documents.
• Coordinate with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy (MISE) to conduct scoping assessments, review Bills of Quantities (BOQ), and carry out periodic quality assurance inspections.
• Prepare progress and completion reports for healthcare facility refurbishments, ensuring alignment with approved designs and quality standards.
• Conduct training on the Environmental and Social Risk Management Plan (ESRMP) to build capacity among stakeholders for effective implementation and compliance with environmental and social safeguards.
• Submit timely and accurate progress and completion reports to enable effective monitoring and ensure all works are delivered within agreed timelines.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a university degree in civil or structural engineering, building engineering, or a related field. A master's degree or professional qualification in a related field is desirable. Candidates should possess at least two years of relevant experience working on government projects related to the construction and maintenance of healthcare facilities, particularly in outer island construction projects. Experience in project management and procurement is considered an added advantage. Technical skills required include project management experience, knowledge of Social and Environmental Safeguards (SES), and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Good personal communication, organization, coordination, and planning skills are essential, along with a solid understanding of WHO's mandate and goals or experience in UN organizations, international institutions, or NGOs.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a university degree in civil or structural engineering, building engineering, or a related field. A master's degree or professional qualification in a related field is advantageous and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in government projects, specifically in the construction and maintenance of healthcare facilities. Experience working on outer island construction projects is particularly valuable. Additional experience in project management and procurement will be considered a plus.

Languages:
Fluency in English is essential, along with proficiency in the local language. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication with stakeholders and project participants.

Additional Notes:
The salary for this role will range from AUD 24,646.96 to AUD 25,042.42, depending on qualifications and experience. The initial contract duration is 12 months, with the possibility of extension. This position is subject to local recruitment and is intended for Kiribati nationals residing in the local commuting area of the duty station. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or interview may be used as part of the screening process. Candidates must provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications in advance if selected for an interview. WHO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and other forms of abusive conduct. All candidates must adhere to WHO's ethical standards and are required to confirm their vaccination status as part of the recruitment process.