Project Engineering Specialist [Open to internal and external applicants]

The Project Engineering Specialist will play a critical role in planning, designing, implementing, and monitoring civil works projects under the Flood Reconstruction and Coordination Programme (FRP) in Quetta, Pakistan. This position involves conducting feasibility studies, preparing designs, bills of quantities, and cost estimates, supporting procurement processes, overseeing construction activities, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. The specialist will lead communication with stakeholders, manage contractors, and supervise a team of field engineers to ensure timely and effective project delivery. Additionally, the role includes providing technical support for donor engagement, preparing briefing materials, and responding to technical queries related to civil works progress and quality.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead the planning, assessment, and design of civil works and infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with UNDP policies and local standards.
- Conduct site assessments, supervise preparation of reports, and manage feasibility studies to recommend optimal solutions.
- Develop detailed project designs, technical specifications, and cost estimates for civil, structural, electrical, and mechanical systems.
- Prepare technical documentation for procurement, including terms of reference, scope of work, and bills of quantities, ensuring compliance with UNDP procurement procedures.
- Collaborate with procurement teams to finalize bidding documents, evaluate bids, and select qualified contractors.
- Oversee contract management, monitor construction progress, and ensure contractors adhere to scope, budget, timelines, and quality standards.
- Provide real-time updates and guidance to the FRP technical team and supervise third-party engineering firms involved in construction oversight.
- Manage variation orders, contract amendments, and certification of invoices based on completed work.
- Conduct inspections during construction and defect liability periods to ensure quality and timely resolution of issues.
- Facilitate knowledge management by maintaining comprehensive project documentation, reporting to donors, and archiving records.
- Deliver training and knowledge transfer on construction best practices, environmental management, and health and safety standards.
- Perform other duties as required to support the efficient functioning of the project and organization.

Required Qualifications

- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with an additional two years of relevant experience will be considered.
- Minimum of 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) of professional experience in building construction and civil works project management at national or international levels.
- Proven experience in managing and leading engineering teams.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Fluency in English and Urdu is mandatory; knowledge of Pushto is an advantage.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- CIPS Level 4 certification is highly desirable; candidates without it at recruitment must obtain it within one year. Partial certification will be considered an advantage.
- Experience preparing tender documents and technical specifications for large engineering projects.
- Familiarity with UNDP policies, procurement rules, and regulations.
- Experience in supervising construction activities and leading project teams.
- Prior work experience in Quetta or similar contexts is preferred.
- Certification in project management methodologies such as PMP or PRINCE2 is an asset.

UNDP is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. The organization values merit-based recruitment and fosters a workplace free from harassment, exploitation, and discrimination. Candidates are expected to adhere to UNDP’s ethical standards and principles throughout the recruitment process and employment. Multiple candidates may be selected from this vacancy, and applications may be retained for consideration for similar roles. UNDP encourages responsible use of AI tools during the application process and does not charge any fees at any recruitment stage.