Design Review Engineer - Hydraulic Works and Irrigation Structures
Organizational Context
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Asia Pacific Regional Office oversees operations in 17 countries, focusing on infrastructure, health, procurement, and project management to support sustainable development. The Afghanistan Country Office (AFCO) specifically supports life-saving initiatives and basic human needs through large-scale cash-for-work programs and emergency supply procurement.
Job Purpose
This role provides independent technical assurance for Group 2B site-specific designs related to hydraulic works and irrigation structures. The primary purpose is to verify that these designs comply with approved model parameters, relevant codes, and standards, and are supported by adequate site-specific information and calculations. The engineer ensures designs are coordinated, safe, functional, practical for construction, and suitable for the Afghan operating context, ultimately recommending acceptance, revision, or escalation. This role offers assurance without assuming the designer's responsibility.
Responsibilities
The Design Review Engineer is responsible for conducting independent technical reviews of hydraulic and irrigation structure designs. This includes verifying compliance with model design parameters, codes, and standards, and assessing the completeness and reliability of site-specific information. The engineer will review calculations, drawings, specifications, and Bills of Quantities for accuracy, consistency, safety, functionality, and constructability, considering local conditions. Responsibilities also involve identifying safety-critical issues, omissions, and departures from approved models, recommending additional investigations or escalations as needed. The role requires clear communication of review comments, evaluation of designer responses, and final recommendations for design outcomes. Coordination with focal points, attendance at technical meetings, and potential site visits for verification are also key duties.
Work Experience
A minimum of three years of direct design experience relevant to the technical category is required, with independent design-review experience counting towards overall experience. Demonstrated responsibility for engineering calculations, design decisions, or technical reviews is essential. Experience with at least three comparable assignments, including one within the last three years, and familiarity with the Afghan or similar regional contexts are necessary.
Skills
Document Review, Engineering Design, Hydrologic Engineering Center Hydrologic Modeling System, Hydraulic Systems, Seismic Design, Stress Analysis, Structural Engineering, Professional Judgment, Technical Assurance, Conflict of Interest Declaration.