Mechanical Engineer

Organizational Context

UNOPS operates in Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on delivering high-impact solutions for sustainable development through resilient infrastructure and strengthened public systems. In Guatemala, UNOPS has partnered with national institutions since 1997 to modernize public administration, close infrastructure gaps, and enhance 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 UNOPS quality standards, remain within budget, and meet established timelines. Key responsibilities include supervising construction and contracted supervision in the mechanical engineering specialty, coordinating with other disciplines, managing quality, administering contracts, ensuring health and safety compliance, and contributing to capacity building. The ultimate goal is to deliver resilient, safe, and sustainable infrastructure aligned with UNOPS and donor standards.

Responsibilities

The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for overseeing daily construction and supervision activities within their specialty, ensuring adherence to project specifications, approved plans, and contractual obligations. This includes monitoring progress, managing contractor and supervisor performance, identifying and mitigating delays, risks, and cost overruns, and recommending corrective actions. The role involves reviewing contractor payment claims, variation orders, and extension requests, maintaining comprehensive project documentation, and representing UNOPS in site meetings. Quality management is crucial, involving the enforcement of UNOPS quality standards, conducting inspections, verifying quality control procedures, and ensuring compliance with design specifications. Furthermore, the engineer contributes to the implementation of Health, Safety, Social, and Environmental (HSSE) management systems, promotes sustainable practices, and monitors/reports incidents. Progress monitoring, detailed reporting (weekly/monthly), and supporting payment certifications are also key duties, alongside contributing to knowledge management and training initiatives.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of relevant experience in construction, supervision, or project management of vertical infrastructure projects within mechanical engineering is required. Experience in project documentation, report writing, and technical communication is essential. Proficiency with collaboration tools (e.g., MS Office, G-Suite) and web-based management systems is necessary. Experience in hospital infrastructure design, construction, and supervision, as well as BIM and construction management tools, is desirable.

Skills

Construction Administration Services, Construction Site Management, Data Analysis, Logistics Management, Mechanical Engineering, Project Management

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