Lead Construction Management Engineer

Organizational Context

UNOPS Africa Regional Office, based in Nairobi, supports over 250 projects across 40 countries, focusing on fragile and conflict-affected settings. The West Africa Multi-Country Office (WAMCO), based in Dakar, manages infrastructure and project delivery across 16 countries. This role supports a project in Guinea-Bissau focused on rehabilitating rural roads to improve agricultural access and economic integration.

Job Purpose

The Lead Construction Management Engineer provides essential technical leadership throughout the infrastructure delivery lifecycle, from initial planning and design review to site supervision, quality assurance, and final handover. This role is critical for ensuring that UNOPS projects are executed efficiently, meeting stringent timelines, budget constraints, and technical specifications. The incumbent is responsible for overseeing engineering teams, contractors, and consultants, ensuring strict adherence to UNOPS' quality standards and Health, Safety, Social, and Environment (HSSE) protocols. The position directly contributes to the successful implementation of infrastructure development initiatives, aligning with national priorities and sustainable development goals.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning and technical execution of infrastructure activities, ensuring alignment with UNOPS standards and project objectives. Conduct site investigations, review design documentation, and provide expert technical advice. Oversee day-to-day construction supervision, ensuring contractor compliance with designs, contracts, and specifications. Implement and monitor Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) systems, and enforce HSSE standards. Track project progress against schedules and budgets, proactively identifying and mitigating risks, delays, and cost overruns. Support contract administration, including the verification of interim payments and variation orders. Maintain comprehensive project documentation, including site records, inspection reports, and photographic evidence. Prepare detailed progress reports and contribute to project close-out documentation. Supervise junior engineers and facilitate capacity-building activities for project personnel and local authorities on construction supervision and HSSE.

Work Experience

Required experience includes building construction, site supervision, or infrastructure project management. Proven experience in quality control, monitoring, and reporting within construction projects is essential. Proficiency in collaboration and productivity tools (e.g., MS Office, G-Suite) and web-based management systems is also required. Experience in multicultural or UN system environments in developing countries, humanitarian contexts, and technical communication is desirable.

Skills

Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Data Analysis, Inventory Management, Logistics Management, Project Management, Quality Assurance, Quality Control, HSSE Standards, Contract Administration, Reporting, Technical Supervision.

Explore related opportunities