Engineer/Project Manager

Job Description

WFP Ethiopia is looking for a Project Manager/Civil Engineer to manage Construction works around the country. The position is located in WFP Ethiopia based in Addis Ababa Country Office.

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Technical Development
  • Lead the preparation of conceptual, preliminary and detailed engineering designs for WFP construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with WFP engineering standards, national/international codes and international best practices.
  • Develop, review and validate architectural, structural, civil, electrical and mechanical drawings, specifications, Bills of Quantities (BoQs), technical schedules and supporting documentation.
  • Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies to inform design requirements, including geotechnical, environmental, hydrological or climatic considerations.
  • Integrate safety‑by‑design, sustainability, regenerative‑resilience and cost‑efficiency principles into all engineering designs.
  • Review and approve design submissions from consultants, ensuring technical accuracy, adequacy, buildability and compliance with project objectives.
  • Provide expert guidance on engineering design modifications required due to unforeseen site conditions, value engineering opportunities, programme limitations or operational needs.
  • Lead or support the development of standard design templates, typical details, and engineering guidance materials for the country office.
  • Ensure coordination between design disciplines (architecture, civil works, electrical, mechanical) and resolve design clashes or inconsistencies before issuing construction documents.
  • Evaluate innovative technologies, construction methods and materials suitable for emergency, low‑resource or remote environments.
  • Ensure all issued-for-construction drawings and specifications are complete, coordinated and approved prior to construction start.
• Project Management and Supervision
  • Provide full engineering and project management services throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Develop and maintain the project programme, budget, cash flow, and associated control mechanisms.
  • Lead coordination with internal WFP units (Admin, ICT, Security, Supply Chain, Programme, etc.) and ensure all requirements are incorporated into engineering deliverables.
  • Liaise with government authorities and external stakeholders to secure permits, ensure compliance, and maintain alignment throughout project execution.
  • Provide strategic advice to the Head of Engineering on project risks, access issues, sequencing, handover planning, and mitigation measures.
  • Documenting lessons learned and contributing to guidance, SOPs or best practices.
• Procurement and Contract Administration
  • Prepare complete tender documentation for construction and refurbishment works.
  • Support procurement processes, ensuring technical compliance during evaluation and award stages.
  • Administer contract provisions, including performance management, claims, interpretation of contract terms, and audit follow-up.
  • Prepare and review variation orders, technical justifications, revised drawings, and implementation schedules.
  • Manage contractor bonds, warranties, guarantees and maintain permanent contractual records.
  • Process interim and final payments, certify quantities, and prepare final accounts.
  • Systematic review of cost‑effectiveness, optimizations, and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Construction Supervision & Technical Assurance
  • Provide direct supervision of contractors and consultants, ensuring delivery within the approved programme, budget, quality, and safety standards.
  • Compliance with WFP engineering standards, policies, and donor requirements.
  • Review and approve construction methodologies, site supervision teams, subcontractors, equipment, and material sources.
  • Conduct regular inspections of works, facilities, equipment, and laboratories to ensure compliance with specifications and contract requirements.
  • Monitor progress against the workplan and intervene proactively in cases of slippage, risks or deviations.
  • Ensure full compliance with national laws, including labour standards and prohibition of child labour.
  • Review, validate and approve "as-built" documentation and support formal handover and takeover processes.
  • Monitor performance during the defects notification period and advise on retention release or required remedial actions.
• Quality Management
  • Establish and implement project quality assurance systems aligned with WFP standards.
  • Oversee all testing, verification, measurements and certification of works and materials.
  • Maintain accurate, permanent quality records, including laboratory results, inspection findings and corrective actions.
  • Identify defects, issue corrective instructions and ensure full rectification in accordance with the contract.
• Health, Safety & Security
  • Ensure contractors apply internationally recognized health and safety standards for personnel, works and adjacent properties.
  • Review and approve contractor security provisions in coordination with the WFP Security Unit.
  • Report safety incidents and non-compliance to the Head of Engineering and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Reporting & Documentation
  • Establish and maintain a comprehensive system for site documentation, including correspondence, surveys, inspection records, diaries, financial data, and progress reports.
  • Prepare inception, monthly, quarterly and completion reports in line with WFP requirements.
  • Produce technical appraisals, contract documentation, and additional reports as requested by the Head of Engineering or management.
• Other Duties
  • Perform additional tasks assigned by the Head of Engineering, DCD or CD as required for successful delivery of engineering activities.