Lead Construction Management Engineer (Architect/Urban)

Contract

This is a LICA Specialist-10 contract. This kind of contract is known as Local Individual Contractor Agreements. It is normally only for nationals. It's an external contract. It usually requires 5 years of experience, depending on education. More about LICA Specialist-10 contracts.

Background Information - Job-specific

The UNOPS Hub in Amman implements projects on behalf of UN agencies and bilateral donors and in close coordination with the Government and national authorities. With an established presence across the region, the office runs operations including large-scale procurement, project development and technical management, and provides financial, human resources and infrastructure-related services.

The functional objective of UNOPS Hub in Amman is to deliver its projects in an efficient and effective manner and in line with the principles, rules, and regulations of UNOPS, to achieve the outcomes sought by the clients. UNOPS has been active in Lebanon since 2015, delivering projects in support of the Government of Lebanon and partners. Since the explosion at the Beirut Port on 4 August 2020, UNOPS has significantly scaled up its presence in the country to support the humanitarian response and both its presence and portfolio have undergone expansion.

The incumbent is responsible to abide by security policies, administrative instructions, plans and procedures of the UN Security Management System and that of UNOPS.

UNOPS is committed to achieving a fully diverse workforce.

Project Information:

UNOPS is undertaking a project that aims at improving access to critical municipal services and increasing the resilience of the Beirut and Bourj Hammoud municipalities which were affected by the Beirut Port explosion, through the rehabilitation of damaged municipal infrastructure and assets as well as restoration of critical urban services, such as water and sanitation, roads, waste management, and energy, including renewable energy, in an integrated and gender-sensitive manner, contributing to improved quality of life as well as by creating local economic activities for all. Besides the improved public service delivery, the project entails undertaking accompanying tension-mitigation measures, extensive community engagement activities, and grants support to local CSO/NGOs that aims at reducing tensions in the targeted communities, enhancing community resilience, and helping rebuild the trust in the local authorities.

The project has a duration of 48 months (including 12 months for the Defect Notification Period), and will be implemented in coordination with the governmental, municipal, and relevant community stakeholders in Lebanon, to ensure that projects activities are designed in consultation with relevant governmental authorities and to reflect community needs.

Functional Responsibilities

The Lead Construction Management Architect/Urban - LCMA/U is a member of the Project Team responsible for the survey, design, engineering, rehabilitation and construction supervision of buildings and infrastructure projects to be executed under the Project. Under the direct supervision of the Senior Project Manager-SPM and the overall leadership of the Head of Programme- HoP, the LCMA/U coordinates the day-to-day design and implementation of rehabilitation, construction, and infrastructure activities across all projects under the engagement, in coordination with Project Team Members- PTM.

The LCMA/U demonstrates to the Engineering Staff (ES) of the PTM best practices and techniques of key technical and construction management work areas, extensive practical experience in performing practical rehabilitation,construction and infrastructure activities and supervising works in compliance with quality assurance requirements, ensuring the synergy, efficiency and effectiveness of parallel implemented projects under the lens of urban development, and extensive skills in the mobilization and management of resources, ensure that Health, Safety, Social and Environmental- HSSE management and Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) practices are implemented within the design and implementation of rehabilitation, construction and infrastructure activities of the projects.

Monitoring and Progress Controls - Tracking of project-plan metrics that include performance indicators on management of project team, project budget, project activities duration and project deliverables quality. - Tracking of project issues and implementation of corrective actions. - Tracking of project risks and implementation of risks mitigations plan. - Managing quality of service as agreed with partners. - Preparing timely project-related reports, including project highlight report, project plan progress report, project issues report, project risks report and project quality management report.

Summary of Key Functions:

Under the direct supervision of and in coordination with the SPM, the LCMA/U will perform the below functions and responsibilities:

• Technical Support
• General Construction Management
• Governance, Monitoring, and Reporting
• Knowledge Building and Knowledge Sharing

1) Technical Support: - Develops a comprehensive Project Implementation Plan- PIP, clearly defining objectives, expected outputs, including milestone achievements and detailed work plans, roles and responsibilities, and inputs required. - Plans, supervises, and manages all tasks pertaining to the preparation of design and implementation of rehabilitation, construction, and infrastructure activities; and overseeing and coordinating the synergy between these activities. - Plans, supervises, and manages the preparation of conducting site inspection of rehabilitation, construction, and infrastructure activities. - Plans, supervises, and manages the implementation of quality controls (QC) procedures, to ensure all design, rehabilitation, construction, and infrastructure activities are correctly initiated, managed, monitored, reported, and closed in accordance with UNOPS policies and procedures. - Monitors, controls and assesses designs produced by consultants and ensures compliance with the UNOPS Design Planning Manual for Buildings and UNOPS Design Planning Manual for Transport Infrastructure as applicable. - Plans, supervises, and manages preparation by consultants/designers, and submission of detailed designs and technical documentation to the UNOPS Infrastructure Project Management Group- Design Review department (IPMG-DR) and follow up with the PTM, Consultants/Designers to respond to IPMG-DR comments and clarifications. - Supervises and manages the elaboration and finalization of the bidding documents for the solicitation of proposals for consultancy services, supply of goods, as well as works construction. - Liaises with the Procurement Officials and the pertinent PTM to schedule and coordinate all the necessary activities related to the procurement activities and to ensure that the Consultants Terms of Reference as well as technical sections of the supply of goods and works implementation tender documents are prepared in compliance with UNOPS Procurement Manuals and standard bidding documents. - Participates in proposals evaluation committees. - Provides overall technical guidance to the design and implementation of the grants and capacity building activities.

2) General Construction Management: - Provides oversight, advice and guidance on the planning and implementation of all sub-projects to the ES, QA, and HSSE personnel, as well as identifying and solving construction issues in a timely manner, keeping the SPM informed. - In close consultation with the SPM, plans, supervises and manages the performance by the ES, QA, and HSSE staff of their respective tasks. - In close consultation with the SPM, plan, supervises and manages the engagement of retainers and support staff in the rehabilitation, construction, and infrastructure activities (Review of consultants’ and contractors’ deliverables, sites visit, receiving and inspection of goods, testing and commissioning of works and installations, etc.). - Reviews surveys, field inspections, designs, drawings, and specifications, recommending required changes needed to provide cost-effective solutions, where required. - Supervises and manages the monitoring of consultants, suppliers, and contractors’ performance, including compliance with contracts conditions and specifications, work plans, completion of work in accordance with the specified scope of work, time frame, and budget, and takes corrective action, when necessary, to ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of project outputs. - Monitors contracts obligations, develops management systems and accountabilities to ensure all contracts obligations are tracked and met. - Ensures that work methods as proposed by contractors including those of labor-intensive work methods are satisfactory, with reference to the UNOPS management systems, Local and International standards, and sound technical requirements, UNOPS HSSE requirements as well as local laws and regulations. - Advises on Contract Management of design and implementation of rehabilitation, construction and infrastructure activities and makes recommendations on applications for extensions of time, claims for additional payment and other contractual disputes between UNOPS and the Consultants/Contractors. - Supports the SPM to evaluate and assess works schedules and programmes as well as expenditure forecasts, including the comparison with the schedule/forecast’s baselines and report to the SPM accordingly. - Supports the SPM to ensure the highest possible quality of delivery and devise strategies for increased project delivery and quality programming. - Ensures strict and consistent application of UNOPS rules and regulations and ensures the implementation of clear accountability mechanisms across all projects. - Ensures that UNOPS HSSE and Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse- PSEA measures are implemented within the design and the implementation of rehabilitation, construction, and infrastructure activities.

3) Governance, Monitoring, and Reporting: - Plans, supervises and manages the ES- Engineering Staff activities. - Engages the Communication, Community Engagement, and Social Staff (CESS) with tasks relevant to the implementation of the design and the implementation of rehabilitation, construction, and infrastructure activities as per the project requirements, assess and incorporate the extent of their input into the projects (Community engagements, focus group discussions, social assessments, etc.). - Plans, supervises, and manages the preparation of progress reports on rehabilitation, construction, and infrastructure activities, according to the agreed timeframe of works and submission of such on a weekly basis to the Project Manager. - Plans, supervises, and manages the checking, verification of the quantity survey, payment requests submitted by Consultants/ Suppliers/ Contractors, and submit detailed reports in this respect with recommendations to the SPM. - Plans, supervises, and manages projects closure plans, and reports back to the SPM. - Participates in site meetings as and when needed. - Liaises, coordinates, develops and maintains good working relationships with the municipal authorities, ministries, and other governmental entities, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and targeted communities as needed such as for obtaining necessary permits and approvals. - Ensures compliance with relevant laws, codes, and regulations throughout the project lifecycle. - Ensures compliance with UNOPS Organizational Directives, Administrative Instructions, Project Management Manual and UNOPS Construction Templates. - Assists in the management of the project information flows and oversees change controls, risk and issue registers by conducting oversight procedures. - Liaises with and supports the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer in the preparation of reports. - Maintains effective communication and coordination with the PTM. - Ensures accurate and timely reporting of progress and conditions on site through daily site records prepared and submitted by the PT in accordance with UNOPS procedures and practices. - Assists the SPM in the timely preparation of various types of reports (Monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, annual, ad-hoc, etc..) and presentations pertaining to the implementation of the projects. - Supports QA, HSSE, and PSEA inspections and reporting, follow up with PTM to prepare reports on incidents and provide information for daily/ weekly/ monthly/ quarterly assurance and yearly reporting to the Head of Programme and the Project Management Office. - Liaises and cooperates with the CESS PTM on all projects related matters (e.g. Grievance and Redress, Social aspects, community engagements, etc.). - Assists the SPM in the close coordination with the Programme Management Advisor and the Partnerships Specialist, support in stakeholders’ relationship building, promoting a collaborative, client focused, quality and results-oriented approach as would be engaged by the Programme Management Advisor. - Performs any project management activities in coordination with and as delegated by the SPM.

4) Knowledge Building and Knowledge Sharing: - Contributes to the project evaluation process, highlighting challenges associated with the project and feedback into a continuous improvement cycle. - Provides training and knowledge transfer to the PTM, consultant/contractor personnel, including advice on sound construction and engineering practices, and appropriate HSSE requirements during construction. - Contributes to the dissemination and sharing of best practices and lessons learned for development planning and knowledge building. - Participates in the relevant Communities of Practice, actively interacting with other PMs and the PM community to share case studies, lessons learned, and best practices. - Provides feedback to Practice Leads on policy and supporting guidance, with an aim towards continuous improvement of UNOPS policies.

Competencies

Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization.(for levels IICA-2, IICA-3, LICA Specialist- 10, LICA Specialist-11, NOC, NOD, P3, P4 and above) Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.

Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles. Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role). Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries. Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements. Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving. Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

Education:- Advanced University degree (Master's Degree), preferably in Architecture or Urban planning, or related Engineering discipline, is required. - First level university degree (Bachelor's Degree) in the above disciplines, with two (2) years additional experience, can be considered in lieu of the Master's Degree.

Experience:- A minimum of five (5) years of experience in managing and supervising works’ execution of infrastructure projects, such as construction and rehabilitation of urban development projects, public spaces and buildings, or utilities (Water or Electricity) is required. - Demonstrated experience in managing and supervising works’ execution of multiple projects simultaneously across different disciplines (Architecture, Urban, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.), and leading construction teams of diverse professionals is required. - Demonstrated experience in managing and supervising works’ execution involving urban infrastructure systems, including transportation networks, and new/ renewable energy projects is highly desirable. - Knowledge and skills in using AutoCAD is an advantage. - Knowledge of UNOPS/UN rules and regulations is an asset.

Computer Skills: - Proficiency in the use of computers and cloud-based office software packages (Google Suite) is desirable. - Proficiency in project scheduling software (Primavera, MS Projects, etc.) is an asset. - Experience in handling web-based management systems is highly valued.

Language Requirements: - Fluency (oral and written) in English and Arabic is required.

Contract type, level and duration

Contract type: Local Individual Contractor Agreement (LICA) Contract level: LICA Specialist-10 Contract duration: Open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds and satisfactory performance.

For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link: https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx

Additional Information

• Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
• Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
• UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
• Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
• We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.
• This position is stationed in Beirut, Lebanon, which is a family duty station.

Terms and Conditions

• For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.
• For retainer contracts, you must complete a few Mandatory Courses (they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. For more information on a retainer contract here.
• All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
• It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.