UNHCR

Engineer - Civil Works Supervision and Contract Management

Pemba, Mozambique Full time

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
• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5–7 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