Project Engineering Specialist [Open to internal and external applicants]

UNDP is seeking a Project Engineering Specialist to support the Flood Reconstruction and Coordination Programme (FRP) in Quetta, Pakistan. This role involves planning, designing, implementing, and monitoring civil works projects focused on reconstructing houses and rehabilitating community infrastructure. The specialist will lead technical activities, oversee contractors, manage a team of engineers, and ensure quality, timeliness, and compliance with UNDP standards and donor requirements. The position requires close coordination with stakeholders and contribution to donor engagement through technical inputs and reporting.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead the planning, assessment, and design of civil works projects, including conducting site assessments, preparing feasibility studies, designs, Bills of Quantities (BoQs), cost estimates, and ensuring alignment with UNDP policies and local standards.
- Facilitate procurement processes by preparing high-quality Terms of Reference, technical specifications, and bidding documents, coordinating with procurement units, and participating in bid evaluations.
- Oversee contract management and supervise construction works, ensuring contractors comply with contract terms, quality standards, and timelines. Provide real-time monitoring and guidance to field engineers and third-party supervisors.
- Certify contractor invoices by verifying the accuracy of work completed against contractual obligations and manage final inspections and project completion documentation.
- Promote knowledge management by maintaining comprehensive project documentation, contributing to reporting for donors and stakeholders, and providing training on construction best practices, environmental management, and health and safety standards.
- Provide leadership and technical guidance to the engineering team, fostering collaboration and capacity building while ensuring adherence to UNDP rules and regulations.

Required Qualifications

- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree with additional qualifying experience may be considered.
- Minimum of 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) of relevant engineering experience in building construction and civil works project management at national or international levels.
- Proven experience managing and leading engineering teams.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Fluency in English and Urdu is required; knowledge of Pushto is an advantage.
- CIPS Level 4 certification is highly desirable or must be obtained within one year of recruitment.
- Familiarity with UNDP policies, procurement procedures, and contract management is preferred.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Experience preparing tender documents and technical specifications for sizable engineering works.
- Prior experience supervising construction activities and managing project delivery in line with donor requirements.
- Previous work experience in Quetta or similar contexts is an asset.
- Certification in project management methodologies such as PMP or PRINCE2 is desirable.
- UNDP offers an inclusive work environment committed to diversity, equal opportunity, and professional development.

UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization maintains a strict policy against harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority. Candidates will undergo relevant checks and are expected to uphold UNDP’s ethical standards. Multiple candidates may be selected from this recruitment process, and applications may be considered for similar roles within UNDP.

Applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with UNDP’s guidance on the responsible use of AI in recruitment. UNDP does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and warns against scams.

This position reports to the FRP Programme Manager and Operations Specialist and is based in Quetta, Pakistan.