Senior Associate Construction Management Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) operates in 23 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on delivering high-impact solutions that drive sustainable development. Established to enhance the quality of life and promote inclusive growth, UNOPS emphasizes building resilient infrastructure, including roads, bridges, public facilities, sanitation systems, and housing. The organization also plays a crucial role in public health by procuring essential medicines and medical equipment, ensuring broader access to healthcare services. UNOPS is committed to transparent, efficient, and equitable public management, aligning its interventions with national priorities to help countries advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Senior Associate Construction Management Engineer will be responsible for overseeing construction projects within the framework of the UNOPS Technical Cooperation Project aimed at strengthening educational infrastructure for traditional communities in Brazil. This role involves ensuring that construction activities adhere to UNOPS policies and standards, managing the technical, administrative, and financial aspects of projects, and providing technical advisory on construction contracts. The position requires a strong focus on quality control, effective communication with stakeholders, and the ability to work in challenging environments, including remote and indigenous areas. The engineer will also be expected to participate in fieldwork, ensuring that all construction activities are executed according to the established plans and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical advisory on construction and supervision contracts, ensuring compliance with UNOPS policies and standards.
• Actively monitor and participate in infrastructure works and services, including construction and civil works.
• Support procurement processes and the hiring of consultants.
• Manage technical, administrative, and financial controls of the projects.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, environmental, and quality standards during construction.
• Collaborate with the Works Supervision Unit to analyze inspection results and quality control documentation.
• Prepare monthly reports and documentation related to project progress and quality control.
• Participate in project meetings and field inspections, providing updates on construction activities.
• Assist in the preparation of budgets and financial analyses for construction projects. 1
• Support the development of work plans and ensure timely delivery of project milestones. 1
• Engage with local communities and stakeholders to ensure project alignment with their needs and expectations. 1
• Maintain accurate records of project performance and costs, facilitating effective project management.

Required Qualifications:

• Completion of secondary education is required.
• A degree in architecture, engineering, or a related field is necessary, with active registration in the relevant professional council (CREA-CONFEA or CAU).
• A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in works supervision or infrastructure execution is required, or three years in combination with a bachelor's degree.
• Knowledge of material quality control is mandatory.
• Proficiency in using computer tools for reporting, such as Google Sheets and Google Docs.
• Certification in Project Management (e.g., PRINCE2®) is desirable.
• Experience with FIDIC contract management is an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires a minimum of secondary education, with a preference for candidates holding a degree in architecture, engineering, or a related field. Active registration with the relevant professional council (CREA-CONFEA or CAU) is mandatory. Candidates with a degree may substitute some years of experience, and certifications in project management methodologies such as PRINCE2® are considered advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least seven years of relevant experience in works supervision or execution of infrastructure projects, or three years of experience combined with a bachelor's degree. Experience in quality control of materials and familiarity with FIDIC contracts are highly desirable. Previous experience within the United Nations system or other international organizations is also preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is required, with basic proficiency in English and Spanish considered beneficial. The ability to communicate effectively in Portuguese is essential for engaging with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at the Associate seniority level (ICS 07) and is offered as a retainer contract for a duration of 12 months. The role requires the ability to work from home with a suitable environment, including a personal laptop and internet connection. Candidates must be available for fieldwork and travel to remote locations, including indigenous and quilombola communities. The selection process includes a technical assessment followed by a competency-based interview, and the timeline for recruitment may vary from one to three months. UNOPS is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.