Dutystation: Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Functional responsibilities
Under the direct supervision of the Senior Project Manager, and in close coordination with national partners, local authorities, and UNOPS technical teams, the Infrastructure Specialist will provide technical support in the planning, implementation, monitoring, and closure of infrastructure projects funded by KfW. The Specialist will ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with quality standards, contractual commitments, and UNOPS procedures.
1. Planning, Implementation and Management of Infrastructure ProjectsSupport the technical and operational planning of infrastructure projects (schools, health centers, community facilities, etc.), including reviewing or preparing project documents, schedules, procurement plans, and cost estimates.
Participate in the preparation of tender documents and contribute to the technical evaluation of bids, in coordination with the procurement team.
Monitor the performance of contractors and service providers involved in project execution, ensuring adherence to contractual obligations.
Support technical risk analysis and the monitoring of mitigation measures throughout the project cycle.
Conduct regular site visits to monitor construction progress and ensure compliance with technical, environmental, and social standards.
Facilitate technical coordination with local stakeholders (authorities, engineering offices, beneficiaries) to ensure smooth project implementation.
2. Quality Assurance, Technical Monitoring and Project Closure
Ensure the application of quality and safety standards during construction works in line with UNOPS and KfW requirements.
Support the implementation of quality control plans, environmental and social management plans (ESMPs), and HSSE measures.
Contribute to the technical review and validation of deliverables: technical drawings, site reports, provisional and final handovers.
Participate in documenting technical and administrative project components: progress reports, completion reports, technical datasheets, and maintenance plans.
Assist in the handover process of completed infrastructure to beneficiaries and in preparing for technical or financial audits if required.
3. Coordination, Technical Communication and Capacity Building
Provide technical advice to the Senior Project Manager and stakeholders on construction options, technical innovations, or cost optimization.
Participate in technical coordination meetings, project review sessions, and stakeholder consultations.
Contribute to the training and capacity building of national staff or local partners in areas such as infrastructure project management, site supervision, and quality standards.
Support the sharing of best practices and lessons learned to foster continuous improvement.
4. Cross-Cutting Contributions and Organizational Compliance
Mainstream resilience, accessibility, environmental sustainability, and gender sensitivity in the design and implementation of infrastructure projects.
Ensure compliance with UNOPS policies related to project management, procurement, financial oversight, safety, and environmental and social safeguards.
Contribute to the preparation of technical and narrative reports for the donor (KfW) and other stakeholders.
Education/Experience/Language requirements
Education:
A Master’s degree in an infrastructure related field such as engineering, architecture, and construction management or similar is required.
Additional 2 years of relevant work experience, preferably in combination with certification in project management or infrastructure, construction or engineering management, may substitute for the master’s degree
Additional qualifications in project management, e.g. PRINCE2® Foundation or PMP®, are highly desired.
Experience:
Minimum 5 years relevant experience in coordination, planning and managing of works in design and construction field is required.
Management experience of large scale infrastructure projects in complex environments is preferable.
Experience of administering FIDIC contract documents, preferably certified through FIDIC training courses is an asset.
Previous experiences in developing countries is an asset
Experience in the development of projects is preferable
Proficiency in Gsuite , databases, and the internet is an asset.
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations. For this position, fluency in French (both oral and written) is required.
Knowledge of Lingala or other local languages is an asset
TOGETHER, WE BUILD THE FUTURE
UNOPS – an operational arm of the United Nations – supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by successfully implementing its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world.
Our mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development.
We are proud of our people and embrace diversity and are committed to equal employment opportunities. Our workforce brings together approximately 160 nationalities, represented by over 5,000 UNOPS personnel as well as some 7,800 personnel recruited on behalf of our partners. Spread across 80 countries from a range of backgrounds, and languages and have different gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities.
We encourage women and candidates from underrepresented groups in UNOPS to apply. These include candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.