Education Infrastructure Engineer
Organizational Context
UNICEF Syria is actively engaged in supporting children and families through integrated, multi-sectoral programming, aiming to improve access to critical basic services in areas of highest need. In response to the protracted crisis, which has severely damaged education infrastructure, UNICEF, in coordination with the Ministry of Education and partners, supports school rehabilitation and upgrading. This initiative focuses on creating safe, inclusive, climate-resilient, and accessible learning environments, strengthening the Ministry's capacity in planning, coordination, and infrastructure management.
Job Purpose
The UN Volunteer Specialist (Engineer) will provide crucial technical expertise to the Ministry of Education in Syria for the rehabilitation and upgrading of approximately 6,000 damaged schools. This role is vital for strengthening the Ministry's capacity in planning, implementation, quality assurance, and monitoring of school infrastructure projects. The assignment involves conducting assessments, reviewing designs, supporting implementation, ensuring quality control, and developing standardized methodologies and tools. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the restoration of safe, inclusive, and functional learning environments, ensuring children have access to quality education despite the ongoing crisis.
Responsibilities
The UN Volunteer Specialist (Engineer) will support the Ministry of Education in several key areas. This includes conducting technical assessments of school infrastructure, developing standardized tools for evaluation, and verifying rehabilitation needs through site visits. The role involves supporting the development of rehabilitation plans, cost estimates, and prioritization criteria based on safety and equity. Additionally, the volunteer will assist in developing and applying standards for safe and inclusive school rehabilitation, reviewing technical designs, and ensuring compliance with national and international standards. The position requires regular site supervision, monitoring of rehabilitation works, and ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards. The role also entails developing and maintaining infrastructure databases, tracking rehabilitation progress, and preparing regular reports. Furthermore, the volunteer will support coordination among stakeholders, facilitate information sharing, and contribute to capacity strengthening of Ministry personnel through training and on-the-job coaching, focusing on sustainable infrastructure management.
Work Experience
A minimum of 3 years of progressive professional experience in infrastructure planning, construction, or rehabilitation is required, preferably including school or public building projects. Experience in construction supervision, quality assurance, infrastructure project monitoring, and conducting condition assessments is essential. Experience working in conflict-affected contexts and coordinating with government ministries and partners is also required. Desirable experience includes work in education infrastructure, assessing conflict-damaged structures, and familiarity with child-friendly design standards.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment, decision-making, planning, organizing, professionalism, and self-management. Technical skills in engineering and construction are essential. Experience with relevant software such as AutoCAD or REVIT, and knowledge of project management tools are considered advantageous.