Senior Programme Associate - School Kitchen/Eating hall Construction

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries and employs thousands of staff members who are committed to its mission of achieving Zero Hunger by 203

• WFP is recognized for its efforts in providing food assistance and improving nutrition, and it has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace. WFP values diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for positions within the organization.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Associate position focuses on overseeing the construction of school kitchens and eating halls as part of the School Feeding Programme in Cambodia. This role is critical in ensuring that the infrastructure meets the necessary standards and is completed on time. The successful candidate will work closely with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS), local authorities, and construction companies, to ensure that the school feeding infrastructure is adequately developed and maintained. The position requires a strong understanding of civil engineering principles, project management skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups. The Senior Programme Associate will be responsible for conducting assessments, preparing technical reports, and ensuring quality assurance throughout the construction process. This role is vital in supporting WFP's mission to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and improve educational outcomes for children in Cambodia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Associate include conducting detailed assessments and preparing technical reports related to school kitchen and eating hall construction. The associate will develop designs, including drawings, scope of works, technical specifications, and Bill of Quantities (BoQ). They will assist schools in implementing kitchen construction, ensuring quality assurance throughout the process, and contribute to the technical and analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis of partner bids. The associate will facilitate communication between construction companies, schools, and relevant authorities, monitor construction processes, and provide weekly progress updates. Additionally, they will document challenges and best practices, undertake administrative tasks, provide project management services, and support the commissioning and final handover process of the constructed facilities. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a University Degree (BSc) in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or Construction Management. A training certificate in a related functional area is considered an added value. Additionally, candidates should have a strong understanding of health and safety regulations related to construction projects. The role requires fluency in both oral and written communication in English, and knowledge of the local language is beneficial. Candidates should also have experience with infrastructure construction projects and be proficient in using standard software packages for project management and reporting.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a minimum of a University Degree (BSc) in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or Construction Management. Additional training or certifications in related fields will be considered advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of construction principles, project management, and relevant regulations to effectively oversee the construction of school kitchens and eating halls.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant work experience in civil engineering projects and vertical infrastructure design projects. Candidates should have experience with infrastructure construction, collecting program output and outcome data, conducting analyses, and reporting findings to stakeholders. Experience working with communities, schools, and local authorities on infrastructure or community-based programs is essential. Familiarity with the government procurement process, especially in construction tendering, is also required. Candidates should be adept at using project planning and design tools, such as Microsoft Project or similar software.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of the local language is considered beneficial and may enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities involved in the school feeding program.

Additional Notes:
This position is a WFP Service Contract with a duration from as soon as possible until December 2026, with no expectation of contract extension upon completion of project tasks. The role is based in the Country Office in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and is open to nationals from Cambodia only. The position offers an attractive compensation package, and WFP is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment. Candidates are encouraged to apply through the online recruiting system, and all applications must be submitted exclusively through this platform.