Project Engineering Specialist [Open to internal and external applicants]

UNDP is seeking a Project Engineering Specialist to lead the planning, design, implementation, and monitoring of civil works projects under the Flood Reconstruction and Coordination Programme (FRP) in Quetta, Pakistan. This role involves managing reconstruction efforts for approximately 1,000 houses and community infrastructure damaged by floods, ensuring quality, timeliness, and compliance with UNDP standards. The specialist will oversee a team of field engineers, coordinate with contractors, support procurement processes, and provide technical inputs for donor engagement. The position requires close collaboration with project stakeholders to deliver resilient and sustainable infrastructure solutions.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead the planning, assessment, and design of civil works projects, including feasibility studies, site assessments, preparation of designs, Bills of Quantities (BoQs), and cost estimates in line with UNDP policies and local standards.
- Facilitate procurement by preparing high-quality Terms of Reference, bidding documents, and technical specifications, and participate in bid evaluations.
- Oversee contract management and supervise construction activities to ensure adherence to scope, budget, timelines, and quality standards. Provide real-time updates and guidance to field engineers and contractors.
- Review and certify contractor invoices based on completed work, conduct final inspections, and prepare project completion reports.
- Ensure effective knowledge management by archiving project documentation, providing inputs for donor reports, and facilitating training on construction best practices, environmental management, and health and safety standards.
- Provide leadership and technical expertise to the engineering team, resolving field issues, ensuring compliance with UNDP rules, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Required Qualifications

- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field. A Bachelor’s degree with additional qualifying experience will also be considered.
- Minimum of 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) of experience in building construction and civil works project management at national or international levels.
- Proven experience managing and leading engineering teams.
- Strong computer skills, including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and computer-aided design 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.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Experience preparing tender documents and technical specifications for sizeable engineering projects.
- Familiarity with UNDP policies, procurement rules, and contract management.
- Experience supervising construction activities and leading project teams to achieve targets.
- Previous work experience in Quetta is preferred.
- Certification in project management methodologies such as PMP or PRINCE2 is desirable.

UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization promotes a respectful workplace free from harassment and abuse of authority. Selected candidates will undergo relevant checks and are expected to uphold UNDP’s ethical standards. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates and may consider applicants for similar roles within the organization.

Candidates are encouraged to review 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.