Irrigation Engineer Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims 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. FAO's mission is to support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems, contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda.

Job Overview:
The Irrigation Engineer Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the design, rehabilitation, expansion, and sustainable management of the Aweil Rice Irrigation Scheme in Aweil, South Sudan. This position is vital for enhancing rice production and improving water use efficiency in the region. The incumbent will work closely with the Infrastructure Engineer and the FAO Country Representative, focusing on technical planning, design, supervision, and quality assurance of irrigation and water control infrastructure. The role requires a strong understanding of irrigation systems and the ability to integrate these systems with agricultural practices to improve productivity and food security.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Irrigation Engineer Specialist include preparing engineering drawings, Bills of Quantities (BoQs), and detailed Scopes of Work (SoWs) for irrigation and construction projects. The specialist will also prepare tender documents and technical specifications, participate in the evaluation of bids, conduct field assessments, and provide technical support on irrigation water management. Additional responsibilities include advising on crop water requirements, supporting demonstration activities, collaborating with agronomists and farmer groups, supervising construction works, implementing quality control measures, and preparing technical progress reports. The specialist will also be responsible for certifying completed works and providing updates on project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Irrigation Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Agriculture Engineering, or a closely related field. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in irrigation and civil engineering infrastructure projects is required, along with a working knowledge of English at Level C. Candidates should demonstrate strong technical and functional skills, including experience in conducting field surveys, preparing irrigation plans, and managing contracts for civil works.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in a relevant field. For those with a bachelor's degree, additional professional experience is necessary to meet the qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of relevant experience in irrigation and civil engineering infrastructure projects. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing irrigation systems, conducting field assessments, and preparing technical documentation related to irrigation and water management.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Limited knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication in the local context.

Additional Notes:
The job is based in Aweil, South Sudan, and candidates will be assessed against the specified minimum requirements. The position may involve working in a multi-cultural team and complex emergency contexts, which is an asset. The FAO emphasizes the importance of results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing in its core competencies.