Mechanical Engineer

Organizational Context

UNOPS operates in 23 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on delivering high-impact solutions for sustainable development. The organization builds and improves resilient infrastructure, supports public health through procurement, and strengthens institutional capacities. In Guatemala since 1997, UNOPS partners with national institutions to enhance public systems, foster inclusive growth, and improve service delivery, aligning with national development plans and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Job Purpose

The Mechanical Engineer (Construction Site Resident) provides essential technical expertise and supervision for the planning, implementation, and oversight of infrastructure construction projects. This role ensures all construction activities adhere to required quality standards, remain within defined budgets, and meet established timelines. Key responsibilities include supervising construction in the mechanical engineering specialty, coordinating with other disciplines, managing quality assurance, administering contracts, ensuring health and safety compliance, and contributing to capacity building. The ultimate goal is to deliver resilient, safe, and sustainable infrastructure that aligns with UNOPS and donor standards, thereby enhancing the quality of life for the Guatemalan population.

Responsibilities

The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for overseeing daily construction activities within their specialty, ensuring adherence to project specifications, approved plans, and contractual obligations. This includes monitoring progress, managing contractor performance for timely and quality delivery, and identifying/reporting potential delays, risks, and cost overruns, recommending corrective actions. The role involves supervising construction work according to contractual terms, verifying consistency with Bills of Quantities and schedules, and reviewing contractor payment claims and variation orders. Maintaining adequate project documentation, representing UNOPS in site meetings, and ensuring effective communication with contractors and stakeholders are crucial. Quality management involves enforcing UNOPS standards, conducting inspections, verifying contractor quality control procedures, and analyzing designs for consistency and potential improvements. The engineer also contributes to Health, Safety, Social, and Environmental (HSSE) management by supporting inspections, risk assessments, and promoting sustainable practices. Regular progress monitoring, detailed reporting (weekly/monthly), and supporting payment certifications and contract closure are also key duties. Finally, the role involves supporting knowledge management through training and sharing lessons learned.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of relevant experience in construction, supervision, or infrastructure project management within mechanical engineering is required. Experience in quality control, monitoring, and reporting for construction projects is essential. Proficiency in collaboration tools (MS Office, G-Suite), design software (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM), and web-based management systems is necessary. Experience in healthcare facility design, construction, and supervision, as well as working in multicultural or UN environments in developing countries, is desirable.

Skills

Construction Management, Data Analysis, Inventory Management, Logistics Management, Mechanical Engineering, Project Management

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