About United Nations Development Programme

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories. 

UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet. UNDP has been working in Afghanistan for more than 50 years on climate change and resilience, gender, governance, health, livelihoods, and rule of law. Under the broader framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in close coordination with other UN agencies, UNDP is supporting the Afghan people’s aspiration for peace, prosperity, and sustainability. UNDP is currently implementing its flagship crisis response programme, ABADEI (Area Based Approach to Development Emergency Initiatives), as part of the ongoing UN-led response to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe and the breakdown of Afghanistan’s economy following the August 2021 shift in power. 

Job Description: Project Engineer

Job Summary

The Area-Based Approach to Development Emergency Initiatives (ABADEI) Project is a response to the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan, designed to support basic human needs while enhancing community resilience. The Project Engineer will be responsible for the design, planning, and execution of engineering structures and tools, working closely with the PMU and Regional Project Office teams. The role includes frequent field visits and coordination with various stakeholders.

Duties & Responsibilities

Implementation and Quality Assurance:

• Support the implementation and monitoring of ABADEI project infrastructure activities.
• Conduct detailed analyses on multi-hazard impacts and propose appropriate design structures.
• Prepare a database of engineering-specific baseline conditions and monitor the quality of activities during and after project completion.
• Inspect and supervise project works to ensure compliance with approved standards.

Project Management:

• Conduct field visits to assess project locations and recommend solutions for implementation and contract management.
• Prepare/review budget estimates and Terms of References for reconstruction/rehabilitation of structures.
• Review and refine technical documentation, including Bill of Quantities (BoQ) and design specifications.
• Ensure proper documentation for final handover of project engineering works.

Reporting and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with reporting requirements and proper documentation for tendering and payment processing.
• Participate in bid evaluations and provide written reports on compliance with UNDP procurement procedures.
• Provide periodic feedback to PMU and Regional Project Office teams based on evidence-driven facts.

Knowledge Building and Sharing:

• Develop knowledge management products and generate awareness among local communities and professionals.
• Organize and facilitate training and exposure visits related to project activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned for the efficient functioning of the office.

Competencies

Core Competencies:

• Achieve Results: Plans and monitors work, pays attention to detail, and delivers quality work by deadlines.
• Think Innovatively: Open to creative ideas and pragmatic problem-solving.
• Learn Continuously: Open-minded, shares knowledge, and learns from mistakes.
• Adapt with Agility: Adapts to change and handles ambiguity constructively.
• Act with Determination: Shows drive and motivation, delivering calmly under pressure.
• Engage and Partner: Demonstrates compassion and forms positive relationships.
• Enable Diversity and Inclusion: Appreciates and respects differences, confronting discrimination.

Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies:

• Human-centered Design: Develops solutions by involving the human perspective in problem-solving.
• Project Management: Plans, organizes, prioritizes, and controls resources to achieve specific goals.
• Communication: Communicates clearly and concisely, tailoring messages to the audience.
• Digital & Innovation: Ability to design and build innovative solutions.

Job Requirements

Education:

• Advanced university degree (master's degree) in Civil Engineering or related area, or
• A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in Civil Engineering with an additional two years of qualifying experience.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years (with master’s degree) or 4 years (with bachelor’s degree) in Civil Engineering.
• Demonstrated experience in water conservation structural design and implementation.
• Experience in project implementation, monitoring, and quality assurance.
• Ability to work in a challenging, rapidly changing environment with a diverse team.

Skills:

• Excellent analytical, writing, presentation, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of international standards for civil works related to infrastructure construction/rehabilitation.
• Previous experience within UN would be an asset.

Languages:

• Proficiency in English (written and oral) is required.
• Fluency in Dari and/or Pashto is required.

Equal Opportunity Statement

UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination.

Submission Guideline

Interested applicants can apply by clicking the link below or by copying and pasting the link into their browsers:
Online Application Form

Important Information for US Permanent Residents:

Acceptance of a staff position with UNDP may have implications for US Permanent Residents. Applicants are advised to seek legal advice regarding their status.