Structural Engineer – Earthquake Damage Assessment
Conduct rapid structural assessments and recommend recovery interventions.
Overview
Conduct rapid structural assessments and recommend recovery interventions.
You have:
- Bachelor Degree with Minimum 5 years of experience in structural assessments and post-disaster evaluations or Master Degree with minimum 3 years experience.
- Previous experience in structural assessments processes is strongly preferred; experience in post disaster is an asset.
Contract
This is a UNV National Specialist contract. This kind of contract is known as National UN Volunteer. It is normally only for nationals. More about UNV National Specialist contracts.
The recent earthquake in the Sagaing Region has resulted in significant damage to residential housing, public buildings, and critical public infrastructure. As part of the early recovery and reconstruction efforts, a rapid structural integrity and damage assessment is required to guide humanitarian response, prioritize interventions, and inform planning for rebuilding and repair.
Under the direct supervision of UNDP focal person and in close collaboration with UNDP’s team of technical experts, the UN Volunteer will take the following key responsibilities:
a. Structural Integrity Assessments • Conduct visual and technical assessments of buildings for safety and structural soundness. • Classify buildings into different categories (eg safe, repairable, or unsafe/demolition categories), by applying international best practices and standard. • Identify immediate hazards or risks to occupants and recommend mitigation measures.
b. Housing and Building Assessments • Collect data on the number, type, and condition of damaged buildings (residential, schools, hospital and clinics, etc.). • Categorize damage using standard classifications (e.g., minor, moderate, severe, total collapse). • Map affected areas using GIS or other tools, as applicable. • Prepare documentation including photographs, building sketches, and GPS coordinates records.
c. Reporting and Recommendations • Submit detailed assessment reports with prioritized recommendations for repair and reconstruction. • Provide technical inputs to the recovery planning team. • Present findings to relevant stakeholders including local authorities and humanitarian actors. • Participation in coordination meetings and debrief sessions
☒ Accountability ☒ Adaptability and Flexibility ☒ Client Orientation ☒ Commitment and Motivation ☒ Communication ☒ Creativity ☒ Integrity ☒ Knowledge Sharing ☒ Leadership ☒ Managing Performance ☒ Planning and Organizing ☒ Professionalism ☒ Respect for Diversity ☒ Self-Management ☒ Technological Awareness ☒ Working in Teams
Bachelor Degree with Minimum 5 years of experience in structural assessments and post-disaster evaluations or Master Degree with minimum 3 years experience. Previous experience in structural assessments processes is strongly preferred; experience in post disaster is an asset.
Myanmar have been significantly affected by ongoing political instability, economic challenges, and natural disasters. Many communities face limited access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and electricity—especially in rural and conflict-affected areas. The economic situation has worsened, leading to rising prices and job insecurity. Recent natural disasters, like the March 2025 earthquake, have further strained already vulnerable communities, damaging homes, infrastructure, and essential services.
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe your experience with structural assessments in post-disaster scenarios? | The interviewer wants to understand your practical experience in challenging environments. | Discuss specific projects, the types of assessments performed, and the outcomes. |
| What methods do you use for data collection during structural assessments? | This question evaluates your technical approach to data gathering. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you prioritize recommendations in your assessment reports? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe a time you identified a critical safety hazard during an assessment. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you ensure effective communication with local authorities after conducting assessments? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What challenges have you faced during structural assessments, and how did you overcome them? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you explain how you use GIS tools in damage assessments? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you stay updated on best practices in structural integrity assessments? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |