Background Information – Job specific UNOPS manages a range of infrastructure projects in Zimbabwe in different sectors including education, health, agriculture, and transport applying different implementation approaches such as labor-based and outsourced designers/contractors but always with direct supervision from UNOPS.
The Republic of Zimbabwe, through its Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development (MLAFWRD), is actively spearheading the implementation of the Smallholder Irrigation Revitalisation Program (SIRP), with the invaluable backing of funding provided by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The overarching mission of the SIRP resonates with the imperative of ensuring that rural households not only attain but also sustain food and nutrition security, fortified against the unpredictable impacts of climate change and the oscillations of economic shocks across various program districts. This transformative program is underpinned by the resolute objective of empowering rural households to chart a trajectory of enduring income growth, not only within the confines of SIRP-supported schemes but also in the contiguous rainfed areas.
The MLAFWRD invited the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to provide advisory support to the implementation of the SIRP in order to expedite its rate of implementation especially at 10 irrigation schemes across 3 provinces. This has been necessitated by the fact that the rate of implementation at these particular sites encountered challenges primarily related to the delayed completion. UNOPS will be utilising elements of its Back on Track (BOT) methodology. Leveraging UNOPS’s distinct proficiency, the forthcoming eight months are poised to witness a proactive infusion of BOT advisory services, thereby serving as a bedrock for elevated project delivery standards and the holistic advancement in the completion of affected irrigation schemes. Ultimately, this BOT approach strengthens the SIRP’s resilience and effectiveness, ensuring its positive impact on rural livelihoods, food security, and climate adaptation.
Functional Responsibilities
Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Project Manager, the Lead Construction Management engineer (Advisory) is responsible for supporting the Project Manager in providing sound advice on aspects of the day-to-day construction/contract management and timely delivery of the project and associated outputs in accordance with agreed timelines, standards, and budget of the Government of Zimbabwe contracts.
This list is not representative of all the duties required but indicate typical duties and responsibilities:
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- Provide sound advice on the development and management of the existing Contract Management Plan developed by the PCU (Project Coordination Unit) and the DOI (department of Irrigation) including, but not limited to, insurance and goods procured, subcontractor’s personnel qualifications, delivery of contractual terms, reports and payments, services delivered against contractual requirements and specifications and standards.
- Provide sound advice to the senior management of the PCU and DOI through the Project Manager on any potential issues and recommend remedial actions or solutions.
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- Advise the PCU and DOI on the appropriate existing contract management tools, guidelines, and manuals for standardization and knowledge-sharing purposes.
- Advise the PCU and DOI in monitoring cash flows on regular basis with regards to the ongoing projects and financial agreements.
- Advises the PCU with the evaluation of the contractors’ performance against the agreed performance measurement criteria.
- Support and advise on reviewing and processing variations.
- As needed, provide advisory support on contract matters to the PCU project manager and the DOI Director or other operational staff.
- Provides advice and guidance on the maintenance of contractual records and documentation.
- Assist the Project Manager in the preparation of Stage Plans and End Stage Reports;
- Maintain and update issue and risk registers.
- Attend procurement/ Contract related workshops/ discussions.
- Carry out research and identify appropriate technologies/techniques/designs that can be incorporated in the infrastructure projects monitoring systems.
- Actively engage in knowledge sharing and also improve one’s professional skills.
Ready To lead In Construction Management? UNOPS Has An Opening For You
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:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Contract Management, Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Project Management or related field from an accredited university is required.
- A Masters degree in Construction Contract Management,Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Project management or any other related field will be an added advantage and will be accepted in lieu of the respective years of experience.
Certification:
- PRINCE2 Foundation Certification is an added advantage.
- Membership of a related professional association is an added advantage.
Experience:
- A Minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience with bachelor’s degree, or a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience with master’s degree in Engineering and/or Construction Management and contract management environment, is required.
- Experience working in project teams and working in a multi-project environment is required.
- Experience working in remote locations is highly desired.
- Experience in FIDIC contracts management is highly valued.
Language requirements:
- Full working knowledge of English is required.
- Working knowledge of another official UN Language is an asset.To Apply Click HERE