Engineer – Civil Works Supervision and Contract Management at United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) – Tanzania
Recruiter: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
About United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization mandated to protect refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people, and to assist in their voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement. Founded in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, working to ensure that everybody has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge.
Job Summary
This mid-level position at United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) offers a compelling opportunity for an professional to contribute to administrative management . Based in Tanzania, you will apply your expertise to advance United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)’s mission and support the United Nations system’s work on critical global priorities. This role offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic, multicultural environment while contributing to meaningful outcomes that benefit communities worldwide. This role is well-suited to an professional with demonstrated expertise in administrative management and a commitment to the values and principles of the United Nations.
Full Job Description
Deadline for Applications March 9, 2026 Hardship Level (not applicable for home-based) D Family Type (not applicable for home-based) Non Family with Residential Location Staff Member / Affiliate Type UNOPS IICA2 Target Start Date 2026-04-01 Terms of Reference TERMS OF REFERENCE (Individual Contractor Agreement) Functional Title: Engineer Civil Works Supervision and Contract Management Project: [0000001443] Duty station: Pemba, Mozambique Section/Unit: Programme ICA Level: IICA – II ICA Type: Regular Corresponding level: P3 Duration: from 01/04/2026 to 31/12/2026 Supervisor: Head of Sub Office, Kahilo Jose Katunda 1. General Background The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is an international organization with the mandate to assist persons in need of international protection; asylum seekers; refugees; statelessness; and internally displaced persons. The UNHCR operation in Mozambique has its main office in Maputo, sub-office in Pemba, field unit in Nampula, and two field units in districts of Cabo Delgado (Mocimboa da Praia and Mueda). The working language in the UNHCR offices in Mozambique is English. The project involves analysis, elaboration and implementation of civil works including contractor site establishment, earthworks, structural and masonry works, roofing, plastering, painting, ceiling installation, doors and windows installation, and associated finishing works in accordance with approved drawings, technical specifications, and Bill of Quantities (BoQ). The Engineer shall ensure proper management of the civil construction project cycle, as well as provide technical supervision and contract monitoring to ensure that all works are executed in compliance with UNHCR engineering standards, contractual requirements, and accepted construction practices. 2. Purpose and Scope of Assignment The purpose of this assignment is to ensure:
- Strengthen construction project cycle management to enhance local capacity to respond to and cope with the impacts of climate change.
- Proper execution of construction works in accordance with approved designs and specifications.
- Compliance with quality standards and contractual obligations.
- Effective monitoring of contractor performance.
- Timely completion of works within approved scope, budget, and schedule.
- Proper certification and documentation of completed works.
- Perform any other duties related to the position as required, under the guidance of UNHCR. 3. Scope of Work and Responsibilities 3.1 Contract, Supervision and Site Management
- Support, review drawings, BOQs, and technical specifications.
- Support preparation of tender documents.
- Supervise contractor mobilization and site establishment activities.
- Ensure contractor compliance with contractual obligations, technical specifications, and approved work methodology.
- Issue technical instructions and clarification where required.
- Coordinate with project management, contractor, and relevant stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation.
- Ensure works are implemented according to approved drawings and engineering instructions. 3.2 Technical Supervision of Civil Works The Engineer shall supervise and verify execution of: a) Earthworks
- Site clearing, removal of vegetation, debris, and preparation of construction areas.
- Excavation works including levels, alignment, and dimensions.
- Backfilling and compaction in layers as specified.
- Proper drainage and site preparation prior to construction. b) Masonry and Concrete Works
- Foundation works and block masonry construction.
- Verification of mortar ratios and materials quality.
- Reinforcement installation prior to concrete pouring.
- Concrete mixing, placing, compaction, and curing.
- Compliance with structural drawings and specifications. c) Metal and Roofing Works
- Reinforcement steel placement and fixing.
- Roof truss fabrication and installation.
- Installation of roofing materials including UPVC sheets.
- Verification of structural alignment and finishing quality. d) Finishing Works
- Internal and external plastering works.
- Ceramic tile installation in wet areas.
- Painting works including surface preparation and finishing.
- Ceiling installation in accordance with manufacturer specifications. e) Doors, Windows and Metal Works
- Installation of wooden and metal doors and windows.
- Verification of fittings, alignment, and operational functionality.
- Inspection of finishing and protective coatings. 3.3 Quality Assurance and Certification
- Conduct regular inspections to verify quality of materials and workmanship.
- Ensure compliance with technical specifications and engineering standards.
- Approve works at key construction stages prior to continuation.
- Prepare snag lists and monitor defect rectification.
- Verify quantities executed prior to payment certification.
- Recommend approval or rejection of works based on compliance. 3.4 Monitoring and Reporting
- Monitor progress against approved work schedule.
- Prepare periodic site progress reports.
- Maintain site records including inspection reports and instructions.
- Report technical issues, delays, and risks with proposed mitigation measures.
- Support preparation of completion and handover documentation. 3.5 Health, Safety and Environmental Compliance
- Ensure contractor compliance with safety procedures and safe working practices.
- Ensure integration of climate-resilient and protection considerations.
- Monitor site cleanliness and environmental protection measures.
- Ensure safe storage and handling of materials and equipment.
- Report incidents and ensure corrective measures are implemented. 3.6 Risk Management and Compliance
- Identify technical and operational risks affecting quality, cost, or timeline.
- Recommend corrective measures to maintain compliance with project objectives.
- Ensure implementation remains within approved scope and contractual framework. 4. Deliverables The Engineer shall provide:
- Weekly or bi-weekly site supervision reports.
- Inspection and quality control records.
- Interim payment verification reports.
- Snag list and completion reports.
- Final technical completion certificate. 5. Required Qualifications
- Bachelors degree in architecture, Civil Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum 57 years of experience in construction supervision or infrastructure implementation.
- Experience in humanitarian or UN projects is an advantage.
- Knowledge of construction quality control and contract supervision Knowledge of Portuguese language is desirable. Functional Skills IT-Computer Literacy SP-Environment Planning SP-Design tools such as Global Positioning System (GPS) SP-Shelter and Site Planning Technical Guidelines and Standards SP-Infrastructure Development/Construction Management/Property Management EX-Field experience in emergency and/or large-scale settings SP-AutoCAD software PR-Global Shelter Cluster Strategy SP-Shelter Assessment including survey/implementation/monitoring/evaluation/coordination SP-Environmental Assessment/Planning/Monitoring/Evaluation of integrated projects/programs c. Key Competencies Core Competencies Accountability Communication Organizational Awareness Teamwork & Collaboration Commitment to Continuous Learning Client & Result Orientation Managerial Competencies Empowering and Building Trust Managing Resources Judgement and Decision Making Cross-Functional Competencies Analytical Thinking Technological Awareness Stakeholder Management Standard Job Description Required Languages , , Desired Languages , , Additional Qualifications Skills Education Certifications Work Experience Other information This position doesn’t require a functional clearance Remote No Important notice: Please note that UNHCR does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, meeting, travelling, processing or training). Read about how to avoid scams and fraudulent job offers. Please note that applications are only accepted via the UNHCR online recruitment platform. CVs and/or application requests sent via email will not be answered, reviewed…
Key Details
- Job Title: Engineer – Civil Works Supervision and Contract Management
- Grade: P-3
- Location: Pemba, Tanzania
- Department: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
- Contract Type: Professional Staff
- Salary Range:$70,212.0 – $90,676.0 USD annually
Qualifications
- Not specified in the official posting
Skills
- Not specified in the official posting
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package
- Professional development opportunities
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
- Inclusive and collaborative work environment
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official UN careers portal. Female candidates and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
