Contract Enginnering Associate

Background

UNDP in Cyprus provides a diverse package of programmatic services to a range of partners which contribute to building a conducive environment for the peace process. In collaboration with the European Union and other partners, UNDP has earned a reputation as an independent, trusted and experienced partner in the area of peacebuilding, working with Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots on confidence-building measures, encouraging dialogue and cooperation, and supporting the development of environmental, economic and social infrastructure of the island. In particular, the implementation of the confidence-building measures contributes to the building of trust between the two communities while demonstrating to the public at large that the two communities can work together on critical issues that are of importance to all inhabitants of Cyprus.

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. 

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 in 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 planet. Learn more at undp.org or follow at @UNDP.

The Agreement of 21 March 2008 reached between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots under the auspices of the United Nations (UN), paved the way for the establishment of the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage (TCCH), dedicated to the identification, promotion and protection of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Cyprus. The TCCH is composed of an equal number of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot experts. The TCCH works to provide a mutually acceptable mechanism for the implementation of practical measures for the proper preservation, physical protection and restoration (including research, study and survey) of the immovable cultural heritage of Cyprus. The TCCH is operating under the UN auspices and its work is an important tool for building confidence between the Turkish Cypriots and the Greek Cypriots. The TCCH is supported in its work by an Advisory Board (AB), which was established in 2009 and is composed of archaeologists, architects, art historians and town planners from both communities. 

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the general guidance and direct supervision of the Project Analyst (CW), the Contract Engineer Associate assists in the supervision of works contract/s for several Cultural Heritage projects located in Cyprus to ensure the smooth support for the project/s in close consultation with the site teams. 

The following responsibilities present the key areas of focus under this assignment:

1.) Provide technical and contractual supervision and coordination for restoration / conservation activities in compliance with the technical specifications, bills of quantities, drawings, and guidelines established by the UNDP.

• Review and understand all project contract requirements, technical specifications, drawings, and related documents to ensure a thorough understanding of project scope, requirements, and expectations.
• Provide technical expertise and oversight to ensure that all construction activities are performed in accordance with the contract documents, applicable standards, and best practices.
• Conduct regular site visits and inspections to monitor the progress and quality of site activities, and identify and resolve any issues that arise.
• Collaborate with project teams to ensure that all work activities are properly coordinated and scheduled, and that resources are effectively managed.
• Check and verify quantities of works done, review and approve interm and final payments in accordance with contract requirements, and ensure that all necessary documentation is provided to support payment requests.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of project activities, including daily site reports and other documentation in electronic library format.
• Review and assess any proposed variations to the project scope or design, provide recommendations and cost estimates, and assist in obtaining approvals from the relevant parties.
• Report any deviations or non-conformities promptly and provide regular progress updates to project teams. Take appropriate actions to address these issues.
• Establish and maintain relationships with designers and other parties involved in the project to facilitate coordination and ensure the project is implemented smoothly.
• Foster a culture of safety by ensuring contractor fully understands that all work activities should be conducted in accordance with relevant health and safety regulations and standards.
• Support in preparing  terms of reference and specifications for the civil works and services when required. 
• Conduct visits and prepare terms of reference and specifications for the preventative works scope when required.
• The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

2.)  Contribute to facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing in the area of work, focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Support project staff in identification, documentation, drafting of best practices and lessons learned.
• Effectively showcase to external stakeholders on progress made and impacts delivered; and
• Participate in supervision of works contracts training efforts as required.

Competencies

Cross-Functional & Technical competencies 

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Secondary Education is required. 
• University Degree in Architecture and/or Structural/Civil Engineering, or equivalent field will be given due consideration, but it is not a requirement.

Experience:

• Minimum of six (6) years (with secondary education) or three (3) years (with bachelor's degree) of relevant experience in architectural/structural design and/or site supervision would be required. 

Required Skills: 

• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and experience in handling of web-based management systems.

Desired Skills:

• Previous experience working for cultural heritage projects is considered an asset. 
• Site supervision experiences of projects similar to restoration/conservation /repair of stone buildings and similar architectural/cultural heritage buildings/structures is an asset.
• Proven experience in the civil works contract management is an asset.
• Proven experience in designs of restoration/conservation projects of stone buildings is desired. 
• Previous experience working in projects with multiple stakeholders involved is considered an asset.
• Previous working experience with UNDP is considered as an asset.
• Familiarity with the bi-communal / multi-cultural working environment is highly desired. 

Required Languages:

• Fluency in English is required.
• Fluency in Greek and/or Turkish is required. 

Professional Certificates:

• Valid driver’s license is a requirement.

Other:

• Nationals or others legally authorized to work in Cyprus.

Equal opportunity

As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination. 

UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles. 

Right to select multiple candidates

UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Scam alert

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