Associate Civil Engineer, LICA-6, Philippines

UNOPS in the Philippines
Established in 2016, UNOPS Philippines provides expert support to ensure sustainable project management, procurement and infrastructure activities in projects. With funds from the European Union (EU), UNOPS supports the Supreme Court, the Department of Justice, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government under the Governance in Justice (GOJUST) Programme (GOJUST2) through procurement, logistics, and grants management to push forward the justice reform agenda of the Philippine government through innovations and interventions; as well as providing grants to civil society organisations to improve access to justice of marginalised groups. In the Support to the Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA) Programme, UNOPS is working with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Government strengthening capacities of the executive, legislative and judicial branches to ensure a smooth transition, also with funds from the EU.

In the health sector, UNOPS works with the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) for the construction of health facilities in Eastern Samar, and with the DOH / ADB in the HEAL project (Health System Enhancement to Address and Limit COVID-19).

The UNOPS Philippines Office is part of the UNOPS Cambodia Multi-Country Officer (KHOH), which provides oversight, support and services to UNOPS operations in the country offices.

UNOPS Philippines is in the process of expanding its area of engagement in cooperation with its development partners, focusing mainly on a portfolio of projects and programs in the infrastructure, logistics management, procurement in health, rule of law, and governance sectors and subsequently is looking for qualified and committed experts.

SUBATRA Project

The Support to Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA) (The Action) aims to contribute to the smooth and timely undertaking of the transitional government process through strengthening of the capabilities and capacities of the 3 branches of the Bangsamoro Government. Promoting a good enabling and governance environment will ensure the efficient development and implementation of policies consistent with the transition plan, focusing on the enhancement of capacities that are critical for a sound functioning of interim institutions.

The overall EU Action is specifically focused upon 4 defined lines of effort:

1. Strengthening the capacity of the BTA’s (Bangsamoro Transition Authority) executive branch superstructure to drive and coordinate key transitional policies;
2. Strengthening the capacity of the Parliament to exercise its law making and oversight functions;
3. Strengthening the capacity of the Justice System to adjudicate litigations and improve access to justice;
4. Strengthening the capacity of civil society to contribute to a peaceful transition to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao.

These 4 lines of effort are in turn focused upon delivering 4 Results from the overall EU Action:

• Result 1: enhanced capacity of the BTA’s Executive Branch to efficiently handle the transition through improved institutional superstructure to plan, impulse and monitor transitional policies as well as enhanced capacity of the administrative machinery, especially key governance ministries, to implement policies and deliver basic social services.
• Result 2: enhanced capacity of the Bangsamoro Parliament to exercise its law making, oversight and representation functions.
• Result 3: enhanced capacity of the multifaceted Bangsamoro Justice System to adjudicate.
• Result 4: enhanced capacity of the civil society to contribute to a peaceful transition to BARMM.

The EU Action was signed with UNOPS in August 2020 and has a duration of five years, with an ongoing inception phase in Q1 of 2021 (and a further planned transition period to last until 2022, when the new elections for the new Bangsamoro Government is held at the same time as the national elections). The EU Action will be implemented not only during the transition, but also during the post-transition phase as well, thus ensuring a seamless crossover to the elected Bangsamoro Government.

UNOPS has been contracted as an Implementing Partner to provide support to specific and necessary components of the Action, namely Procurement, Logistical and Administrative Support Services, Communications and Visibility, and Infrastructure Management, as well as overall Project Management backstopping and oversight.

The Action will contribute to improving the capacity of the BTA to efficiently implement the transition, according to the provisions of the BOL – the latter being essential for peace consolidation in Mindanao. This is the cornerstone of the core Bangsamoro self-reliance and self-determination for effective autonomy during the transition.

Functional Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Construction Management Engineer, the Associate Civil Engineer is expected to support the implementation of the project activities through the provision of technical expertise and the application of best practices in the project implementation. The Associate Civil Engineer, who is expected to be working in the Project Site office, will assist the Construction Management Engineer to oversee implementation of contracted works in conforming to the technical specifications of UNOPS. Any situation that may require decision making which will involve changes in the designs and plan will be brought to the notice of the Project Manager with details of issues encountered at site and appropriate recommendations.

Specifically, the Associate Civil Engineer will be responsible to support Construction Management Engineer for supervision of contractors and other tasks on several construction sites and shall perform the following duties and responsibilities:

1. Technical Assistance

• Study the scope of civil works/minor upgrade works/Infrastructure works and support the Construction Management Engineer in planning, implementation of these variety of infrastructure activities.
• Provide support in reviewing minor upgrade work plans/drawings presented by the contractor during the planning and procurement phases
• Support the Construction Management Engineer in overseeing the construction quality at assigned sites and ensure the work is performed as per specifications by the contractors. Support in the planning of timely delivery of site progress reports, preparation of reports, update work plans if needed, keeping track of progress in between reporting moments.
• Coordinate with the end user at field level and resolve any issues proactively which might arise due to contractors operation.
• Provide support and guidance to the contractors and assists in resolving site problems, as necessary, in coordination with the Construction Management Engineer.
• Attend the project site daily in order to monitor the works as per UNOPS HSSE and Quality Assurance Policies.
• Report technical issues to the Construction Management Engineer in a timely manner and ensure that the solution is implemented as per technical standards.
• Check and verify the variation orders/claims submitted by the contractor and ensure the claim is accurate and as per the variation order. Ensure all technical inputs and cost estimates are accurate, provided in a timely manner and included in the project proposals and budgets.
• Coordinate with end-users, inspect and report to the Construction Management Engineer on minor upgrade works requirements on all project sites.
• Inspect and report to the Construction Management Engineer on the Contractor’s works in progress, ensuring that the Contractor meets the high-quality standards expected by UNOPS.
• Check and verify the interim payments submitted by the Contractor/s and submit detailed reports to the Project Manager.
• Check the Contractor’s set out and works, including compliance with Contract Specifications and ensure that the contractor comply with their work plans to complete work within the specified timeframe.

2. Monitoring

• Provide support to ensure UNOPS’ Health, Safety, Social and Environmental management systems are implemented on site.
• Closely monitor the progress of works and prepare reports which include details of work done, difficulties and delays in the work, their causes, the proposed remedial measures and financial status of the works contracts; develop inspection and test plans and update them regularly with the contractor.

3. Knowledge sharing and management

• Contribute to the project evaluation process; highlight challenges associated with the project and feedback into a continuous improvement cycle.
• Contribute to the dissemination and sharing of best practices and lessons learned for development planning and knowledge building.
• Participate in the relevant Communities of Practice, actively interact with other Engineers and the Engineering community to share case studies, lessons learned and best practice on the Knowledge System.
• Provide feedback to Practice Leads on policy, supporting guidance with an aim towards continuous improvement of UNOPS policies.

4. Reporting

• Ensure accurate and timely reporting of progress and conditions on site through daily site records prepared and submitted by the engineering team.
• Produce any appropriate documentation identified by the Project Manager and Construction Management Engineer in a professional and accurate manner.

Impact of results

The effective and successful achievement of results by the Associate Civil Engineer directly impacts the successful delivery of the project on time, budget and quality above the expectations of all stakeholders. This consequently reinforces the visibility and image of UNOPS as an effective service provider in project services and management and strengthens its competitive position as a partner of choice in sustainable development and project services.

Competencies

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:

• Completion of Secondary education or equivalent is required.
• A University Degree, preferably in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management or another relevant technical discipline, is an advantage and can substitute for some of the required years of experience.
• License/Board Certification in Engineering is desirable.
• Prince2, PMP or similar project management certification is an asset.

Experience:

• Minimum 6 years of experience in civil works design, quality assurance/ control, supervision or implementation of buildings construction projects in the Philippines with secondary/high school education; 2 years of relevant experience is required in combination with a Bachelor’s degree and no experience is required in combination with a Master’s.
• Comprehensive knowledge in computer software, particularly “AutoCAD” (latest Versions – 2009 and higher), MS Project scheduling or Primavera Project Planner is desirable.
• Familiarity with EU and other International Organizations funded projects (and their management and reporting requirements) is highly desirable.
• High proficiency with computers, and other software/ platforms related to the position’s field of expertise is desirable
• Experience in working with the G-Suite platform including, Google Drive, Google Calendar, Gmail, Google Sheets, Docs, and Slides is desired.

Language:

• Fluency in both written and spoken English is desired.

Contract type, level and duration

• Contract type: Local Individual Contract Agreement (LICA)
• Contract level: ICS-6/LICA-6
• Contract duration: Open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds and satisfactory performance.
• Duty Station: Cotabato City, Philippines. Cotabato City is a non-family duty station

The position is open for application only for Philippines nationals.

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.

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.