About the opportunity
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Gabon is recruiting a Chief Engineering Specialist to accelerate the implementation of infrastructure projects under the Programme d’Urgence et de Développement Communautaire (PUDC). The incumbent will lead the engineering team, manage project workplans and budgets, engage with government counterparts, and oversee the full lifecycle of infrastructure projects, including civil, electrical, water, and energy works. This role involves significant contractor management, quality assurance, risk mitigation, and partnership development to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget. The specialist will work within a multidisciplinary team to support Gabon’s economic and social development, reporting to the PUDC Programme Manager.
Salary and benefits
- One-year contract duration
- International Personnel Service Agreement (IPSA-11) grade
- Opportunity to lead large-scale infrastructure projects within a UN framework
- Professional development through multidisciplinary collaboration and portfolio management
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree (master's) in engineering (civil, infrastructure, electrical, hydraulics, agronomy, or related) with 7 years of relevant experience
- OR a first-level university degree (bachelor's) in the same fields with 9 years of relevant experience
- Proven experience in managing large-scale infrastructure projects (buildings, roads, electricity, drilling, agricultural equipment)
- Experience in infrastructure design, supervision, and contract administration
- Fluency in written and spoken French is required
- Good knowledge of English is desirable
Required documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic credentials/degrees
- Proof of relevant work experience
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 2026-10-20
How to apply
- Visit the official UNDP job portal
- Review the guidance on using AI in recruitment
- Submit the application through the online portal before the deadline
Additional information
- UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this announcement
- Candidates may be considered for similar positions at the same grade level
- UNDP does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process
- The role is subject to standard UN background checks regarding harassment and abuse of authority
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Experienced infrastructure project managers with a background in civil or electrical engineering who are comfortable navigating government and international stakeholder landscapes.
- Professionals with a strong track record in contract administration and quality assurance who can manage both technical teams and external vendors.
- Candidates who are fluent in French and have experience working within UN agencies, NGOs, or public international organizations.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a fixed-term, one-year contract; applicants should be prepared for the temporary nature of the assignment.
- The role requires significant on-site presence and travel to project sites, necessitating a high degree of mobility within Gabon.
- The selection process is tiered, prioritizing existing UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff, which may impact the competitiveness for external applicants.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent fit for senior engineers looking to transition into high-impact international development work. It offers a unique opportunity to lead a flagship national program, providing significant experience in managing large-scale infrastructure portfolios and complex stakeholder relationships within the UN system.
Our take
This position is highly suitable for experienced engineering professionals seeking to apply their technical expertise to humanitarian and development goals. Those with extensive experience in rural infrastructure and a desire to work in a high-responsibility, international environment should apply, provided they meet the strict language and experience requirements.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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