Project Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. With 194 member states, FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide, including Zambia, where it has been operational since 197

• The organization's mission is to assist governments in developing policies, programs, and projects aimed at achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and reducing hunger and malnutrition. FAO's country office in Zambia focuses on enhancing agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors while promoting sustainable use of environmental and natural resources. The current Country Programming Framework (CPF) for Zambia emphasizes four priority areas: improving production and productivity, sustainable management of natural resources, enhancing food security and nutrition, and improving market access and sanitary measures. The incumbent's role will primarily contribute to the first priority area, which is crucial for the nation's agricultural development and food security.

Job Overview:
The engineer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Project Engineer will play a critical role in the implementation of the Zambia Multisectoral Pandemic Preparedness and Response Project (ZaMPPR), which is funded by the World Bank under the Pandemic Fund. This project aims to enhance the nation's readiness and response capabilities to public health threats. The Project Engineer will be responsible for coordinating various technical aspects of the project, including the rehabilitation and upgrading of essential infrastructure, which is vital for strengthening national preparedness and response capacity. The role requires close collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including government authorities, contractors, and consultants, to ensure effective project execution. The incumbent will provide strategic and technical advice, ensuring that project activities align with FAO's corporate strategies and national frameworks. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and compliance throughout the project lifecycle.

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

• Assessment and Planning: Planning and coordinating technical workplans, conducting multidisciplinary condition assessments, identifying risks, and preparing implementation plans.
• Design Review: Reviewing architectural, civil/structural, electrical, and mechanical designs for compliance with FAO standards.
• Specifications, BOQs, and Procurement Support: Reviewing technical specifications and Bills of Quantities (BOQs), providing inputs for bid evaluations, and supporting contract management.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Coordinating with end-users, contractors, and relevant authorities, organizing project meetings, and ensuring effective communication among stakeholders.
• Construction Supervision and Contract Management: Monitoring construction progress, ensuring compliance with safety requirements, and resolving technical issues.
• Payments, Completion, and Close-Out: Verifying quantities for payment certifications, reviewing variation orders, and supporting project close-out processes. The role requires meticulous attention to detail and a strong commitment to achieving project objectives within established timelines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Engineering (Civil, Structural, Electrical, Mechanical, or related discipline). A minimum of eight years of relevant professional experience in infrastructure rehabilitation, building construction, site supervision, or construction/project management is required. Additionally, candidates must have a working knowledge of English and be nationals of Zambia. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, and building effective relationships are essential for success in this role. Technical and functional skills, including problem-solving abilities, relationship management, and familiarity with UN administrative procedures, are also critical.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant engineering discipline, such as Civil, Structural, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering. Candidates must have obtained their qualifications from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). This ensures that the educational qualifications meet international standards and are recognized by FAO.

Experience:
The position requires at least eight years of relevant professional experience in areas such as infrastructure rehabilitation, building construction, site supervision, or construction/project management. Experience working with a UN agency is considered an advantage, as is having worked in multiple locations or areas of work. Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record of managing complex projects and ensuring compliance with technical standards and safety regulations.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, speaking fluency in two or more of the seven major Zambian languages is considered an added advantage, as it enhances communication with local stakeholders and communities involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and the successful candidate will be expected to adhere to FAO's standards of conduct and operational procedures.