Field Office Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Field Office in Odesa. UNHCR is a global organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, providing assistance and support to millions of people worldwide. The organization focuses on ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, as well as working towards durable solutions for those who are displaced. The Odesa Field Office specifically addresses the needs of individuals affected by conflict in the region, coordinating with local authorities and partners to implement emergency shelter and housing activities.

Job Overview:
The Field Office Engineer will play a crucial role in the UNHCR's Emergency Shelter and Housing activities in the Odesa region, which includes the Odeska, Mykholaivska, and Khersonska oblasts. This position involves overseeing the implementation of emergency shelter repairs, the renovation of war-damaged houses, and the repair of homes for internally displaced persons (IDPs). The successful candidate will join a team of engineers and architects, working closely with national NGOs and local authorities to ensure effective project management and compliance with UNHCR's standards. The role requires a sound technical understanding of construction processes and project management, although detailed design work will not be a primary responsibility. The incumbent will be expected to monitor emergency and winter-related activities, maintain close relationships with stakeholders, and ensure the safe and accurate execution of agreed activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Field Office Engineer will be responsible for a variety of duties, including: coordinating with government and local authorities to identify and assess construction projects; estimating project costs for repairs and rehabilitation; liaising with contractors, design service providers, and housing teams; monitoring and reporting on the activities and outputs of various stakeholders; assisting with procurement processes by providing inputs for design solutions and coordinating with the Supply Unit; supervising construction and renovation works; reviewing and approving technical documentation; ensuring compliance with technical requirements; writing regular reports on project aspects; participating in duty travel teams for project implementation; and performing other assigned duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Engineering, or a related field. A minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience is required, with a preference for candidates who have experience in the humanitarian sector. Strong technical knowledge of construction practices in Ukraine and familiarity with Ukrainian construction legislation are essential. Excellent communication skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and proficiency in MS Office applications, particularly Excel, are also required. The ability to work effectively in a multi-task environment and contribute to a multinational team is crucial.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Engineering, or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background provides the necessary technical foundation for understanding construction processes and project management principles relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in the field of civil engineering, architecture, or construction management. Candidates with experience in the humanitarian sector will be given preference, as this background is highly desirable for understanding the unique challenges faced in emergency situations.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Ukrainian and English is required for this position. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary focus will be on effective communication in these two languages to facilitate collaboration with local authorities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with official working hours from Monday to Friday, totaling 40 hours per week. The initial appointment is for a period of six months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The position is not remote and requires regular travel within the Khersonska and Mykholaivska oblasts, including overnight stays in remote locations. Candidates should be prepared for the demands of fieldwork and the challenges associated with working in a humanitarian context.