Biomedical Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS, the operational arm of the United Nations, was established to support the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects globally. It operates in 23 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on delivering sustainable solutions that enhance infrastructure, public health, and institutional capacities. UNOPS aims to align its interventions with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that its projects contribute to inclusive growth and improved quality of life.

Job Overview:
The Biomedical Engineer position at UNOPS involves providing technical expertise in biomedical engineering to support infrastructure upgrades at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Barbados. The role requires leading the review of technical specifications, procurement evaluations, and layout coordination for specialized hospital systems, particularly in medical waste treatment and morgue facilities. The engineer will oversee site inspections, factory and site acceptance testing, commissioning, and handover processes, ensuring compatibility with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems and architectural utilities. This position is crucial for enhancing the hospital's operational capabilities and ensuring quality healthcare delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Medical Equipment Planning and Technical Specifications: Review and prepare technical specifications for new medical and specialized equipment, ensuring compliance with operational requirements and technical standards. Assess compatibility with hospital infrastructure and identify potential installation risks.
• Procurement and Technical Evaluation Support: Assist in preparing technical specifications and evaluation criteria for procurement documents. Review suppliers' proposals for compliance and provide technical inputs for procurement evaluations.
• Design Review and Equipment Coordination: Review medical equipment requirements and their interfaces with architectural and engineering designs. Assess installation clearances and utility requirements.
• Medical and Specialized Equipment Technical Support: Provide technical support for procurement, installation, and commissioning of mortuary refrigeration systems and medical waste treatment equipment.
• Equipment Installation, Testing, and Commissioning: Review installation plans and conduct site visits to verify compliance with specifications. Participate in testing and commissioning activities.
• Equipment Handover and Maintenance Support: Review operation manuals and maintenance requirements, ensuring readiness for acceptance and handover.
• Risk Management, Coordination, and Reporting: Identify technical risks and monitor potential delays, coordinating with stakeholders to resolve issues and maintain accurate records of technical reviews and recommendations.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Biomedical Engineering or a related field, combined with two years of relevant professional experience; or a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the same fields with four years of relevant experience. Professional certification or specialized training in biomedical engineering or medical equipment management is advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess either a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering or a related field, or a Bachelor’s degree with additional years of experience. Specialized training in biomedical engineering or medical equipment management is preferred.

Experience:
Relevant professional experience in biomedical engineering is required, particularly in medical equipment management, installation, testing, and maintenance. Experience in reviewing equipment requirements and coordinating with hospital infrastructure is essential. Additional experience in preparing technical specifications and supporting procurement processes is desired, along with familiarity with international medical equipment standards and safety requirements.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, while proficiency in Spanish is desirable.

Additional Notes:
This position is a mid-level retainer contract with a duration until December 31, 2026, subject to budget availability and satisfactory performance. The role involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government health departments and international development organizations. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.