Quantity Surveyor Engineer - Retainer at United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)

Job Highlight

• The Quantity Surveyor (retainer) shall be called on on an ad-hoc basis to support various projects in assessments by providing a mix of costing, market intelligence and production of bills of quantity.

Role Purpose

• Under the overall supervision of the TSU Quantity Surveyor, the Quantity Surveyor will give his/her technical expertise as required to provide input to bills of quantities, estimates, local insights and evaluations for infrastructure works, conduct assessments and or monitor site works, evaluate variations and provide high-quality related documentation. 

Functions / Key Results Expected

• Specifically, the incumbent will be responsible for the following substantive tasks. The tasks would involve the following, but not limited to:
• Work closely with Architects, Engineers, Draftsmen and other professionals in the Planning of projects, scheduling of tasks and developing integrated design documentation.
• Responsible for the timely preparation and review of the BoQs, specifications and related documents and ensuring they meet the quality standard requirements.
• Responsible for the preparation of preliminary cost estimates for project proposals
• Responsible for the preparation of the engineer’s estimates and will be responsible for withholding this from contractors to avoid collusion.
• Providing advice during the post-tender and construction stage when requested by the Client.
• Carrying out site inspections and assessments as needed and preparing subsequent reports.
• Carrying out valuations of works and preparing subsequent reports.
• Carrying out any relevant administrative and operational efforts of the project as requested by the Unit Manager.
• Responsible for carrying out financial evaluations of tenders.
• Responsible for developing the unit rate systems for the project area. He/she shall maintain a register of unit rates of materials and labour for the preparation of cost estimates.
• Actively engage in knowledge sharing and improving professional skills.

• An agreed task order including the scope, deliverables and the maximum time duration will be agreed upon by the Technical Services Unit and the Quantity Surveyor prior to commencement of each and every assignment. He/she is responsible for ensuring timeous delivery of services as defined in the task order.

Skills

• Bill Of Quantities, Construction Estimating, Sanitation, Site Supervision, Tender Management

Competencies
Respect

• Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organisational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.

Collaboration

• Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles.

Partnerships

• Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role).

Excellence

• Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.

Adaptability

• Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.

Decision-making

• Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.

Communication

• Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Education Requirements

Required

• A bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying / Building Economics from an accredited university with related fields, with 4 years of relevant experience or other related field, is required.

Experience Requirements

Required

• At least a minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience is required.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in QS Software, as well as  (Google Workspace or MS Office), is required

Desired

• Experience of working in multicultural environments or UN system organizations in a developing country is desired.
• Previous experience in sanitation and hygiene projects will be an added advantage.
• Previous experience in developing countries and knowledge in the East African context an asset
• Experience in development or humanitarian contexts is desired.
• Experience in project documentation, report writing and technical communication is desired.