Job Description
This is an excellent opportunity to lead architectural design and supervision for impactful infrastructure projects, contributing to sustainable development across the Horn of Africa. The position offers exposure to diverse projects, multidisciplinary collaboration, and professional growth within a leading UN organization.
The Lead Architect will report to the Senior Project Manager and operates within a dynamic project environment, leading the design and supervision of architectural works for buildings and infrastructure projects across the Horn of Africa. The role is crucial for ensuring the quality, functionality, and compliance of designs with national and international standards, contributing to the successful implementation of impactful development initiatives.
The Lead Architect will lead the design, review, and supervision of architectural works for buildings and infrastructure projects in line with UNOPS guidelines, the National Building Code, standards set by relevant government agencies, and recognized international practices. The Lead Architect will ensure the quality, functionality, and compliance of designs throughout project implementation.
1. Site Assessment
- Lead the assessment and review of site conditions, existing buildings and infrastructure to identify rehabilitation needs and opportunities for improvement.
- Lead site assessment activities and conduct assessment before commencement of design works.
- Conduct on-site inspections to verify structural, architectural, and functional conditions, preparing detailed assessment reports with actionable recommendations.
- Participate in feasibility studies and support the evaluation of project requirements in line with national and international standards.
2. Design Works and Design Review
- Lead the preparation and revision of design briefs, drawings, and documentation for new and rehabilitated infrastructure projects.
- Develop technical specifications, detailed Bills of Quantities (BoQs), and design documentation to guide project implementation.
- Ensure design compliance with national and international standards and guidelines, including Ethiopian Standards (ES/EN), UNOPS Guidelines, ISO standards, FIDIC conditions of contract, and other relevant local or international codes of practice for building and infrastructure projects.
- Prepare 3D models and presentations of building and infrastructure projects.
- Coordinate the development of conceptual, preliminary, detailed, and working drawings, as well as design review certificates and construction permits.
- Prepare a complete design package for design review and respond to design review comments.
- Support the procurement team by preparing bidding documents, participating in pre-bid meetings, providing clarifications to bidders, and evaluating technical and financial proposals.
3. Construction Supervision and Quality Control
- Lead the review and coordination of construction details and working drawings during the project lifecycle, ensuring quality and compliance with design specifications.
- Provide technical advice on project management, construction practices, and environmental safeguards, mitigating potential impacts during construction.
- Maintain accurate construction records and contribute to the preparation of “As Built” drawings.
- Generate regular progress and project reports in line with contractual obligations and UNOPS standard procedures.
4. Leadership, Coordination, and Stakeholder Engagement
- Organize and lead project design teams, ensuring timely, cost-effective, and high-quality delivery of architectural services.
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers, to ensure integrated infrastructure solutions.
- Actively liaise with UNOPS staff, authorities, contractors, and stakeholders to facilitate smooth project implementation and compliance with regulatory requirements.
5. Knowledge Management and Capacity Building
- Maintain design and construction documentation, including technical specifications, BoQs, and reports.
- Participate in knowledge sharing initiatives and continuously improve professional skills to keep abreast of industry best practices.
- Contribute to the development of guidelines, manuals, and lessons learned for institutional capacity building.
- Provide mentorship, guidance, and leadership to junior architects and technical staff, fostering professional development and knowledge transfer.
