Junior Roads Maintenance Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote social justice and fair labor practices. Established in 1919, the ILO has a mission to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection, and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues. The organization operates in over 180 countries and has a diverse workforce committed to improving labor standards and working conditions globally. The ILO values diversity and inclusivity in its workforce, encouraging applications from women and individuals with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The Junior Roads Maintenance Engineer will play a crucial role in the implementation of the Rural Access and Agriculture Marketing Project (RAAMP) in Nigeria, specifically focusing on road maintenance activities. This position is integral to ensuring that rural roads are maintained effectively, which is vital for enhancing access to markets and services for rural communities. The engineer will work closely with the State Project Implementation Units (SPIUs) and will be responsible for routine maintenance and spot improvements of road infrastructure. The role requires a proactive approach to promoting decent work principles and ensuring that maintenance activities are carried out in a sustainable manner. The engineer will also be involved in capacity building for local staff and contractors, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to maintain roads effectively. The position demands a significant amount of fieldwork, with the engineer expected to spend nearly half of their time on-site, providing technical support and oversight to project teams and contractors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist SPIUs in data collection, including supporting road condition surveys and updating rural roads inventory in the states.
• Support the preparation and follow-up of annual and multi-year road maintenance plans with computerized information systems.
• Organize technical field trainings and assist in the development of Road Maintenance Groups and Spot Improvement maintenance contractors.
• Prepare basic documentation related to routine and spot maintenance works, including cost estimates and bidding documents.
• Facilitate community consultations with counterpart agencies, contractors, and local communities to ensure local involvement in project planning and implementation.
• Collect and organize information related to contractors’ work programmes and contribute to design recommendations.
• Prepare work drawings and review setting out works, ensuring quality control and compliance with technical specifications.
• Monitor working conditions at construction sites, focusing on occupational health and safety practices.
• Conduct field inspections during extreme weather to assess the resilience of rehabilitated infrastructure. 1
• Undertake missions to project sites and assist in project implementation and follow-up activities. 1
• Organize conferences, seminars, workshops, and training sessions, supporting the monitoring of project activities. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of civil or highway engineering principles, particularly in the context of rural road maintenance. They should demonstrate the ability to support the management and evaluation of road maintenance projects and possess sound technical knowledge in the field. Strong communication skills are essential, as the role involves explaining technical issues to various stakeholders. Additionally, candidates should have a demonstrated ability to work in teams and adapt to changing demands and multiple tasks.

Educational Background:
Completion of secondary school education is required, with a preference for candidates who have pursued further education in civil or highway engineering. Relevant certifications or training in road maintenance and construction will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 4 years of experience in the field of employment-intensive rural road rehabilitation, construction, or maintenance. Extensive experience in developing and implementing labor-based public works is essential, along with a solid understanding of the ILO's decent work agenda. Experience in training local contractors and engaging with community stakeholders is also highly valued.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English is mandatory, and good knowledge of a Nigerian local language is preferred. This bilingual capability will enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and performance. The role is based in Abuja, Nigeria, but will require significant travel to various project sites across the country. The ILO emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The recruitment process is open to both internal and external candidates, with specific local recruitment criteria for external applicants. The ILO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and maintains strict confidentiality regarding applicants' personal information.