Construction Officer, NO-2, Fixed Term Position, Fiji (Pacific Islands) - MCP, Pacific Office, Suva, Fiji, #00137795

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. In the Pacific, UNICEF's Multi-Country Office (MCO) supports 14 island countries, focusing on health, nutrition, education, child protection, climate resilience, and social policy to address challenges like climate change and service delivery constraints.

Job Purpose

The Construction Officer will be responsible for overseeing and managing construction projects related to WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) infrastructure in the Pacific region. This role involves ensuring that projects are implemented efficiently, effectively, and in accordance with UNICEF standards and best practices. The officer will contribute to improving children's access to safe water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene promotion through the development and execution of construction plans. This includes site selection, design review, contractor management, quality control, and budget monitoring. The position aims to strengthen essential services and build resilience for children and communities across the Pacific island countries, addressing the unique challenges faced by these vulnerable populations.

Responsibilities

Develop and manage construction project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, for WASH infrastructure in the Pacific. Oversee the design, procurement, and implementation phases of construction projects, ensuring compliance with UNICEF standards, local regulations, and international best practices. Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and needs analyses to inform project design and planning. Manage and supervise contractors and consultants, ensuring quality of work, adherence to schedules, and efficient use of resources. Monitor project progress, identify potential risks and challenges, and implement mitigation strategies. Ensure effective quality assurance and quality control measures are in place throughout the construction process. Prepare regular progress reports, financial statements, and other project documentation for UNICEF management and stakeholders. Facilitate community engagement and participation in construction projects, ensuring local needs and perspectives are considered. Contribute to the development of capacity-building initiatives for local partners and staff in construction management and WASH infrastructure. Support the integration of climate resilience and sustainability principles into construction projects. Ensure adherence to safety and environmental standards on all construction sites. Collaborate with government counterparts, UN agencies, and other partners to ensure coordinated and effective project delivery.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of professional experience in construction project management, civil engineering, or a related field. Experience in WASH infrastructure projects is highly desirable. Experience working in developing countries or small island developing states is an asset.

Skills

Construction Project Management, WASH Infrastructure Development, Civil Engineering, Budget Management, Contractor Supervision, Quality Assurance, Risk Management, Site Assessment, Report Writing, Stakeholder Engagement, Climate Resilience, UNICEF Procedures

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