Engineer for Emergency Preparedness and Response Hub

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO has a mission to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO operates in various regions to address health emergencies, disease outbreaks, and health system strengthening. The organization is committed to ensuring that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to public health emergencies, particularly in the African region through initiatives like the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) program.

Job Overview:
The position of Engineer for the Emergency Preparedness and Response Hub in Nairobi is critical to the establishment and operationalization of a fully functional facility that will enhance WHO's capacity to respond to health emergencies in Eastern and Southern Africa. The Engineer will oversee the construction and development of the Hub, which includes a dedicated warehouse and office space, an infectious disease unit, a training facility, and an emergency camp. This role involves ensuring that all construction activities comply with WHO's safety, quality, and environmental standards while coordinating with contractors and government bodies. The Engineer will be responsible for monitoring progress, reviewing engineering plans, and ensuring that the Hub is built on time and within budget, ultimately contributing to WHO's operational readiness and emergency response capabilities in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Engineer will be tasked with a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing terms of reference (TORs) and evaluation criteria for selecting architectural and construction firms; liaising with government regulatory bodies to secure necessary permits; ensuring compliance with WHO's environmental safeguards; coordinating with the WHO Geneva engineering team on design and material selection; conducting topographic and geotechnical surveys; managing the construction process to ensure adherence to WHO standards; preparing detailed project management documentation; supervising construction activities and ensuring safety protocols are followed; preparing progress reports; reviewing and recommending payments based on work completed; leading coordination meetings with stakeholders; resolving technical issues on-site; and ensuring efficient management of WHO resources used in the operation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a University Degree in civil engineering or construction management. Registration with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) is essential, with a requirement for the engineer to be a Registered Professional Engineer (PE) or Consulting Engineer. A valid annual practicing license issued by the EBK is also necessary. Knowledge of local regulations, including the National Construction Authority (NCA) regulations and the Occupational Health & Safety Act (OSHA), is required. Familiarity with building codes and zoning laws applicable in Kenya is also essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a University Degree in civil engineering or construction management. An advanced degree is desirable for managing complex or large-scale projects. Candidates must also be registered with the Engineers Board of Kenya and hold a valid practicing license.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 1 year of proven experience working as a Civil Engineer in the humanitarian or construction industry. Familiarity with WHO policies and procedures is preferred, and experience working in a UN agency or humanitarian/non-profit organization is desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and Swahili is essential for this role. Knowledge of another UN official language would be considered an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the international context of the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is critical for the establishment of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Hub in Nairobi, which serves 20 Member States in Eastern and Southern Africa. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities in project management and oversight of construction activities. The Engineer will work closely with various stakeholders, including contractors and government bodies, to ensure the successful completion of the Hub infrastructure. The position may involve travel within the region as necessary to fulfill the responsibilities effectively.