Civil Engineer (Design)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) was established in 2002 as a Political/Peacebuilding Mission, directed and supported by the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO). UNAMA's mission is to support the Afghan people in their quest for peace, stability, and development, and it operates under the mandate of the United Nations security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council. The organization has evolved over the years, adapting its mandate to meet the changing needs of Afghanistan, with its most recent extension occurring on 16 March 2026, under UN Security Council Resolution 2818 (2026). UNAMA plays a crucial role in facilitating dialogue among Afghan stakeholders and providing assistance in various sectors, including governance, human rights, and humanitarian aid. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in various regions across Afghanistan, contributing to the overall mission of fostering peace and development in the country.

Job Overview:
The engineer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Civil Engineer (Design) position at UNAMA involves a range of responsibilities centered around the design and implementation of construction projects within the mission area. The role requires the application of complex engineering principles and practices to initiate and complete project designs, including the preparation of drawings and specifications for new constructions or repairs of existing structures. The successful candidate will be expected to produce concept designs, final design reports, and detailed engineering drawings, utilizing software such as AutoCAD. Additionally, the engineer will oversee the execution of projects, ensuring that all designs integrate modern technologies and environmental considerations while maintaining economic and functional value. The position also entails supervising construction work, preparing technical specifications, and managing contractual issues, making it essential for the candidate to possess strong project management skills and a thorough understanding of engineering practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Civil Engineer (Design) will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Applying complex engineering principles to initiate and complete project designs, including drawings and specifications for new construction or repairs.
• Producing concept designs, final design reports, and detailed engineering drawings, ensuring proficiency in AutoCAD.
• Implementing projects by updating maps and plans as necessary.
• Executing detailed engineering activities for construction and renovation projects, including preparation of design drawings, sections, and technical details.
• Integrating environmental initiatives and modern technologies into designs while ensuring economic and functional value.
• Preparing detailed scopes of work, technical specifications, Bill of Quantities, cost estimates, and bid documents.
• Furnishing detailed construction drawings as required during the contract period.
• Supervising and monitoring construction work to achieve expected project outputs.
• Recording work measurements and certifying contractor payments. 1
• Assisting in resolving contractual issues, including examining contractor claims and preparing recommendations for client approval. 1
• Assisting in the technical evaluation of projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• A thorough understanding of civil engineering principles and practices.
• Proficiency in design software, particularly AutoCAD.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with contractors, clients, and team members.
• A solid understanding of environmental considerations in engineering design.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing project requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address engineering challenges.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant educational background, typically including:

• A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
• Advanced degrees or certifications in civil engineering or project management may be advantageous.
• Continuous professional development and training in engineering practices and technologies are encouraged.

Experience:
Candidates should have a significant level of experience, typically including:

• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in civil engineering, with a focus on design and project management.
• Experience working in challenging environments or hardship duty stations is preferred.
• Proven track record of successfully managing construction projects from inception to completion.
• Familiarity with UN or international development projects is a plus.

Languages:
The position requires proficiency in English, as it is the working language of UNAMA. Knowledge of local languages, such as Dari or Pashto, is considered an asset and may enhance communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a hardship duty station, and living conditions in Afghanistan may be challenging. UN volunteers will be provided with safe accommodation in a well-equipped compound in Kabul, which includes amenities such as cafeterias, a supermarket, and recreational facilities. The contract duration is subject to the mission's needs, and the position may involve full-time commitments. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UN standards, and the organization is open to recruiting both nationally and internationally.