Civil Engineering Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established to promote sustainable development of human settlements and policies conducive to adequate housing for all. It operates globally, with a focus on urban development and improvement of living conditions, particularly in informal settlements. UN-Habitat collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to implement the Habitat Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where it has expanded its portfolio to support effective, sustainable, and socially equitable urban policies. The organization emphasizes grassroots initiatives and public policy coordination, particularly through programs like Periferia Viva, aimed at improving urban infrastructure and community empowerment in peripheral territories.

Job Overview:
The Civil Engineering Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of various projects under the Periferia Viva Program, which focuses on urban infrastructure and community development in Brazil. This position requires close collaboration with program, operations, and project teams to achieve project objectives and organizational priorities. The consultant will provide technical guidance and support to local teams, ensuring that urban projects align with the needs of the communities and adhere to UN-Habitat's quality standards. The role involves assessing existing infrastructure, advising on urban planning strategies, and ensuring that projects are executed efficiently and effectively. The consultant will also be responsible for documenting project progress and outcomes, contributing to knowledge sharing, and ensuring compliance with ethical principles throughout the consultancy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Civil Engineering Consultant will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: 1) Participating in and guiding technical teams on local Periferia Viva projects during planning and development phases. 2) Providing technical contributions for studies assessing territories to propose appropriate interventions in peripheral areas. 3) Analyzing urban projects developed by local governments and advising on necessary adjustments. 4) Conducting studies to define action plans for territories, ensuring alignment with contemporary strategies and suitability for municipal operations. 5) Designing elements for the Consolidated Action Plan and Institutional Arrangements. 6) Documenting expert group meetings and preparing various reports. 7) Ensuring project deadlines and objectives are met. 8) Identifying and mitigating risks that may affect project development. 9) Participating in missions and attending meetings as required. 10) Complying with UN-Habitat quality standards and ethical principles throughout the consultancy.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, with a preference for candidates holding a postgraduate degree in Civil Engineering or related fields. Candidates must have a minimum of four years of experience in urban-related project management, particularly in Brazil. Experience in social housing policies, sustainable urban development, geometric design, and cost estimation for urban infrastructure projects is essential. Familiarity with the United Nations System is desirable, along with good computer skills and knowledge of project management methodologies.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a Bachelor's degree in Engineering. A postgraduate degree (Lato Sensu or Stricto Sensu) in Civil Engineering or related fields is desirable, indicating a higher level of specialization and knowledge in the field.

Experience:
A minimum of four years of relevant experience in urban-related projects and program management is required. This includes experience in social housing policies, sustainable urban development, and technical assessments of urban infrastructure. Previous experience with the United Nations System is considered an asset, as it demonstrates familiarity with international standards and practices.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, given the local context of the projects. Additionally, working knowledge of English and Spanish is desirable, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat and the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based with an expected duration of six months, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. The consultant is expected to commit to a part-time schedule, averaging at least 20 hours per week. All official travel within Brazil will be subject to project requirements and prior authorization. The appointment is on a local basis, and only nationals from Brazil or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The remuneration will be determined according to the applicable UNOPS Local ICA or UNDP salary scale.