Chief of Section, Engineering

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Engineering Section of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). The UNMISS was established to support peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in South Sudan, which has faced significant challenges since its independence in 201

• The mission aims to protect civilians, monitor human rights, and support the delivery of humanitarian assistance. The UNMISS operates with a diverse team of international and local staff, working collaboratively to achieve its objectives in a complex and often volatile environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the inclusion of women in all areas of its work, reflecting its commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section, Engineering is responsible for overseeing engineering operations within the UNMISS, ensuring that all engineering-related activities align with the mission's objectives. This role requires a high level of expertise in civil engineering and project management, as the Chief Engineer will be involved in the planning, execution, and monitoring of various construction and maintenance projects across the mission area. The position demands strong leadership skills to manage a diverse team and coordinate with various stakeholders, including mission officials and external partners. The Chief Engineer will also be tasked with developing strategic plans for engineering support, ensuring that all projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Additionally, the role involves responding to audit observations and implementing improvements in engineering management practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Section, Engineering will perform a wide range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Administration: Collaborate with the Chief Service Delivery and Director of Mission Support to develop engineering guidance and procedures; prepare communication management plans; liaise with officials to ensure effective information exchange; respond to audit observations; and enhance overall engineering management.
• Planning: Establish work requirements and priorities based on mission deployment; plan and implement complex construction projects; develop short and long-range plans for mission facilities; create annual engineering budgets; monitor costs and schedules; manage engineering resources; and prepare staffing management plans.
• Implementation: Provide expert technical advice on engineering policies; monitor progress of construction projects; support mission liquidation phases; identify outsourcing opportunities; and perform other related duties as assigned. The Chief Engineer must ensure that all engineering activities adhere to best practices in quality and risk management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess advanced professional qualifications in civil engineering or related fields, with a strong emphasis on practical experience in engineering management. The role requires a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in facilities and infrastructure management, including planning, designing, and supervising engineering projects. Additionally, candidates should have at least seven years of supervisory experience at the international level, particularly in project and contract management for large-scale construction projects. Experience in conflict or post-conflict environments is highly desirable, as is familiarity with physical security enhancement projects and data analytics.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background ensures that candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in engineering management, particularly in facilities and infrastructure planning and execution. Candidates should have substantial experience in supervising engineering projects, managing maintenance and repairs, and leading teams in complex environments. Experience in international organizations and familiarity with the unique challenges of working in conflict zones are highly valued. Candidates with a background in managing multi-million dollar construction contracts and those who have led engineering asset management activities in field missions will be particularly competitive.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Proficiency in French is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the mission's operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a 'Recruit from Roster' job opening, meaning it is only open to applicants who are already on pre-approved rosters. Eligible candidates will receive an email invitation to apply. The United Nations encourages qualified women to apply, particularly in line with its commitment to increasing women's participation in its workforce. The organization emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices. Candidates should be aware that the recruitment process does not involve any fees, and the UN does not request personal banking information from applicants.