Project Manager (Infrastructure)

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. The organization focuses on helping people build better lives and countries achieve sustainable development. UNOPS operates in various areas of expertise, including infrastructure, procurement, project management, financial management, and human resources. The Sri Lanka office is part of the Sri Lanka Multi Country Office in the Asia Region, providing technical, operational, and administrative support to multiple countries, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. UNOPS Sri Lanka aligns its operations with the UN Sustainable Development Framework (UNSDF) and collaborates with UN Agencies to support the Government of Sri Lanka in key focus areas. The office currently manages infrastructure projects in health and solid waste management, contributing to public institution governance.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager (Infrastructure) will lead the project management team responsible for delivering impactful infrastructure solutions in Sri Lanka, specifically focusing on integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) projects in the Badulla and Vavuniya districts. This role involves overseeing the construction of new sanitary landfills, Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), and composting facilities, as well as improving existing facilities and building capacity for local authorities and communities. The Project Manager will ensure that project outputs are delivered within established tolerances of time, cost, scope, quality, risk, and social/environmental impact, while embedding sustainability principles throughout the project lifecycle. The position requires effective coordination with various stakeholders, including donors, local government authorities, and community representatives, to ensure smooth operations and consensus building.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Manager will be responsible for the following key tasks:

• Project Delivery & Management: Develop, update, and implement comprehensive project implementation plans and baselines in alignment with UNOPS standards. Oversee the design and construction of sanitary landfills, MRFs, and composting facilities. Ensure project outputs are delivered within established tolerances of time, cost, scope, quality, risk, and social/environmental impact. Embed sustainability, including gender equality, social inclusion, and environmental considerations, throughout the project life span.
• Monitoring, Risk & Quality Assurance: Maintain a robust Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) framework with clear indicators and targets. Identify, anticipate, and manage project risks in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment, implementing appropriate mitigation measures. Coordinate quality reviews of technical designs, specifications, and construction deliverables. Prepare regular technical, narrative, and financial reports for the Project Board, donors, and UNOPS management.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Governance: Act as the primary focal point for coordination with donors, local government authorities, community representatives, and contractors. Develop and execute stakeholder engagement and communication plans to build consensus and ensure smooth operations.
• Team & Operations Management: Lead, structure, and supervise the project team, ensuring high performance, adherence to health and safety standards, and UNDSS security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security compliance. Facilitate knowledge sharing, capture lessons learned, and foster capacity-building initiatives for local partners.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess strong project management skills, with a proven track record in managing infrastructure projects, particularly in the context of solid waste management. The candidate should demonstrate a deep understanding of project delivery methodologies, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Additionally, the candidate should have experience in embedding sustainability principles in project execution, including gender equality and social inclusion. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively in a multi-stakeholder environment.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in civil engineering, environmental science, project management, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in project management or related disciplines will be considered an asset. The candidate should have a solid understanding of infrastructure development processes and relevant regulations.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, with a focus on infrastructure projects. Experience in solid waste management projects is highly desirable. The candidate should have demonstrated experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams and working with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages such as Sinhala or Tamil would be an advantage, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UN Volunteer assignment, and the successful candidate will be based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with potential relocation to field locations during the construction period. The role is full-time and involves working in a stable and safe living environment. The cost of living in Colombo is relatively high, and the city offers a range of accommodation, transportation, medical, banking, and other services. The security level in Colombo is classified as UNDSS Level 1 (Low), indicating a safe environment for expatriates.