🇸🇱 Job Vacancies @ UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) – 3 Positions

UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is recruiting to fill the following positions:

1.) Project Manager
2.) Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Senior Associate
3.) Deputy Project Manager

See job details and how to apply below.

1.) Project Manager

Organisational Context The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners' peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. Mandated as a central resource of the United Nations, UNOPS provides sustainable project management, procurement and infrastructure services to a wide range of governments, donors and United Nations organisations. With over 6,000 personnel spread across 80 countries, UNOPS offers its partners the logistical, technical and management knowledge they need, where they need it. By implementing around 1,000 projects for our partners at any given time, UNOPS makes significant contributions to results on the ground, often in the most challenging environments.

Diversity

With over 5,000 UNOPS personnel and approximately 7,000 personnel recruited on behalf of UNOPS partners spread across 80 countries, our workforce represents a wide range of nationalities and cultures. We promote a balanced, diverse workforce — a strength that helps us better understand and address our partners' needs, and continually strive to improve our gender balance through initiatives and policies that encourage recruitment of qualified female candidates.

Project Information: Freetown's water supply system has been hugely impacted by a disproportionate trend in water supply as against the number of consumers. This has resulted in an intermittent water supply system to be able to serve consumers through rationing. Even though this is the most viable option to sustainably carry out the mandate of the GVWC, potential downsides to this include the risk of waterborne diseases through potential intrusion of contaminants into the distribution system from pressure transients during off-supply hours when the pipes are empty and pressures below atmospheric.

With funding from the Japanese government, the project ending in March 2025 covers technical studies including mapping of customer databases, validation and update of the existing network, procurement of pipes and fittings for leakage management, and establishment of well-defined DMAs to enable GVWC to carry out proper water balance. The main focus on leakage management will be the prevention of water ingress into the water supply system thereby improving the water quality reaching the consumers and subsequently incidences of waterborne and water-related diseases. Interventions will be developed taking into consideration the priorities for people in Freetown in collaboration with the Guma Valley Water Company. This intervention will benefit 250,000 people directly and 15,000 meter connections in Freetown

Overall objective

The project aims at increasing access to safe water and reducing waterborne diseases in Freetown.

Outcome

•  Improved and increased access to safe water in priority areas (beneficiaries: 250,000 people in Freetown)
•  Reduced Non-Revenue water (water loss, from current 45% to 35%, 10% reduction)
•  Improved network system resilience

Job Specific Information

Project Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the project(s) and provides services to the different donors, partners and beneficiaries. Project Manager acts on behalf of the Project Board to manage the project on an ongoing basis during the Implementation Stage. The main responsibility of a Project Manager is to ensure that the project outputs are delivered within the specified project tolerances of time, cost, quality, scope, risk and benefits. He/she is expected to meet the organization's performance and delivery goals.

Project Manager has the authority to assign, as per the Project Plan, work packages to Team Managers and approve deliverables produced by them.

Project Manager is responsible for creating the Implementation Plan, using the Project Initiation Document (PID), Legal Agreement and having a thorough understanding of the terms, conditions, and the respective roles and responsibilities of the partners/stakeholders, to ensure the project(s) outputs are capable of meeting the business cases for both UNOPS and the partner(s). Success of the project(s) and hence of the Project Manager will be based on the defined Success Criteria.

S/he must be able to apply, independently, the below duties and responsibilities of the project success criteria:

Functional Responsibilities

Summary of functions:

•  Project Delivery and Performance
•  Procedures
•  Monitoring and reporting
•  Stakeholder engagement
•  Quality assurance
•  Knowledge management and innovation
•  Personnel management
•  Project Delivery and Performance
•  Develop, complete and update implementation plan(s)
•  Implement the approved plan (including the establishment of milestones) within tolerances set by the Project Board.
•  Embed sustainability dimensions including social and gender inclusion, environmental and economic aspects into project life span.
•  Manage the production of the required outputs, taking responsibility for overall progress and use of resources and initiating corrective action where necessary.
•  Ensure that quality of work packages and deliverables complies with the quality requirements defined in the Implementation Plan.
•  Liaise with any external suppliers or account managers
•  Manage acceptance and delivery of work packages
•  Monitor project progress ensuring that work packages are being executed properly
•  Control project and work packages changes
•  Accept goods, services or works delivered by suppliers.
•  Lead contract management duties including supplier performance evaluation.
•  Act as the Employer's Representative within the FIDIC works contracts.
•  Identify, and anticipate in a timely manner, potential risks and issues and advises mitigating measures to senior management/ Project Board so that maximum benefit to partner(s) and other stakeholders is achieved
•  Identify and report to the supervisor potential business opportunities for UNOPS

2. Procedures

•  Comply with all organizational policy and specifically the Project Management Manual
•  Prepare/adapt all relevant plans for approval by the Project Board.
•  Manage the reporting obligations defined in the Legal Agreement(s) and in the Implementation Plan
•  Draft the requirements definitions for procurement processes. Approving requisitions and requests for non-purchase order payments; Evaluating submissions received, if appointed to the evaluation team.
•  Ensure maintenance of the project files and lessons learned are recorded
•  Ensure the development and implementation of project financial management guidelines and control mechanisms, in conformity with UNOPS rules and regulations.
•  Manage budgets, cash flow and obligations to ensure that deliverables are met and payments to contractors and personnel are received on time.
•  Understand and manage UNOPS overheads, allocable charges, and related corporate charges as they apply to the project
•  Understand the unique structures of the UN and budget appropriately for personnel
•  Manage expenditures against the budget (based on accurate financial reports)
•  Where the Project Manager has no delegation as a committing officer, s/he retains these responsibilities and will monitor and instruct/request others to carry out the relevant commitments and disbursements.
•  For project closure purposes, provide a formal handover of the project to the closure manager
•  Support project audit activities, including planning, preparation and coordination during the audits and follow up on audit observations/recommendations

3. Monitoring and reporting

•  Prepare and issue regular project and/or financial reports in accordance with Partner and UNOPS requirements for reporting.
•  Regularly review project status, evaluating performance criteria (scope, cost, schedule and quality).
•  Maintain diaries and progress reports as required by the organization's standard procedures.
•  Provide routine oversight and analysis of delivery data within the dashboard system. eLCV1Jq C0zk15
•  Ensure all project team members track and regularly update milestones and targets for the duration of projects' life span

4. Stakeholder engagement

•  Develop stakeholder profiles and facilitate the formulation of stakeholder engagement strategies
•  Establish solid working relationships with the Project Board (Executive, Senior Users and Senior Suppliers), client and key stakeholders
•  Enable the formulation of project communications plans. Coordinate internal project communications. Monitor the effectiveness of project communications
•  Coordinate stakeholder engagement and communication, ensuring effective timing and interdependency management of communications. Ensure stakeholders are aware of project activities, progress, exceptions and are in a position to accept handover outputs

5. Quality assurance

•  Work with internal stakeholders to ensure projects comply with audit requirements
•  Work with procurement/purchasing staff to ensure effective interface with suppliers' quality systems
•  Coordinate quality reviews of project documents and deliverables
•  Provide quality control for management outputs (project documents, reports, etc.)

6. Knowledge management and innovation

•  Encourage routine and effective capacity building activities are conducted in order to build the long-term and sustainable capacity of staff.
•  Actively interact with other Project Managers and the wider PM community to share case studies, lessons learned and best practices
•  Contribute to the oversight of lessons learned procedures, ensuring that lessons learnt are shared in a timely and appropriate manner. Participate in the relevant Communities of Practice
•  Research and logging of lessons learned throughout the project life span.
•  Provide feedback to Practice Groups on policy, supporting guidance with an aim towards continuous improvement of UNOPS policies

7. Personnel Management

•  Lead and motivate the project management team
•  Ensure that behavioural expectations of team members are established
•  Ensure that performance reviews are conducted fairly, accurately and timely
•  Select, recruit and train team as required and take into account gender parity and diversity objectives.
•  Ensure safety and security for all project personnel and comply with UNDSS standards
•  Create, foster and role model a culture of respect and zero tolerance for discrimination, abuse of authority, harrasement, sexual harrasement and sexual exploitation and abuse. Ensure accountability for actions and perform duties in accordance with protection mechanisms and action plans, as expected by UNOPS policies, standards and commitments.

Impact of Results Project Manager directly impacts on achievement of project results by adhering to project management methods and strategies, reducing risks, cutting costs and improving success rates. This consequently reinforces the visibility and image of UNOPS as an effective service provider in project services and management and strengthens its competitive position as a partner of choice in sustainable development and project services.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

A. Education

•  Master's Degree (Advanced University Degree) in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Water Resources Project Management, or other relevant disciplines is required.
•  Bachelor's Degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Water Resources, Project Management, or other relevant disciplines with a combination of additional two (2) years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a Master's Degree.

B. Work Experience

•  A minimum of five (5) years' relevant work experience in Project Management in a large International and/or corporate organization is required.
•  Experience working on Japanese government funded projects is a distinct advantage.
•  Experience in budget management, construction management monitoring & evaluation is a distinct advantage.
•  Experience with management of operations in remote locations is an asset.
•  Experience with the UN and/or private sector infrastructure development is an asset.
•  Experience managing projects with multiple sites and complex logistical dimensions in remote locations is an asset.
•  Experience with the design, procurement stages of the infrastructure life cycle is a distinct advantage.
•  Knowledge of the UN system and familiarity with UNOPS procedures is a distinct advantage.

C. Language Requirement

•  Full working knowledge of English is required.

D. Certification

•  PRINCE2® Practitioner Certification is an asset.
•  Managing Successful Project (MSP) Practitioner Certification is an asset.

Competencies

Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization.(for levels IICA-2, IICA-3, LICA Specialist- 10, LICA Specialist-11, NOC, NOD, P3, P4 and above

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

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Contract type, level and duration

•  Contract type: International Individual Contract Agreement (I-ICA)
•  Contract level: IICA 2/ ICS 10
•  Contract duration: Ongoing ICA - ‘Open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds and satisfactory performance'.

For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link: https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx

Additional Information

•  Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
•  Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
•  Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
•  UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
•  Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
•  We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.

Terms and Conditions

•  All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
•  It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

APPLY

2.) Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Senior Associate

Organizational Context The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners' peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. Mandated as a central resource of the United Nations, UNOPS provides sustainable project management, procurement and infrastructure services to a wide range of governments, donors and United Nations organizations.

Diversity

With over 5,000 UNOPS personnel and approximately 7,000 personnel recruited on behalf of UNOPS partners spread across 80 countries, our workforce represents a wide range of nationalities and cultures. We promote a balanced, diverse workforce — a strength that helps us better understand and address our partners' needs, and continually strive to improve our gender balance through initiatives and policies that encourage recruitment of qualified female candidates.

Local Context UNOPS has been active in Sierra Leone since 2000 and has delivered a variety of infrastructure projects nationwide, particularly in the fields of Renewable Energy, Health and Security Infrastructure, and has implemented and procured a variety of vehicles, non-medical health related items, medical equipment, and Solar Photovoltaic systems.

Project Information:

Poor access to electricity is recognised as a binding constraint to long-term economic growth in Sierra Leone. The country is currently experiencing a net deficit of power and is in desperate need of new power sources. The Ministry of Energy, Sierra Leone has developed an Energy Sector Roadmap and action plan with initiatives to increase energy access through technical and non-technical interventions. Part of the roadmap strategy is to incorporate Sierra Leone's great Renewable Energy resources to provide security of electricity supply to rural communities and to boost the economy. To help address the energy infrastructure needs, UNOPS on behalf of the Ministry of Energy, is implementing projects to increase renewable energy based mini-grid electricity accessibility to households, businesses, health centers, schools public services etc. and enhance economic growth in underserved rural communities.

The project aims to expand energy access to remote villages, leading to improved development outcomes in health, education and productive use to beneficiary communities. The project is in support of the Ministry's objective of increasing access to electricity in rural communities, exploring a variety of alternative sources of renewable energy. It is envisioned that the project will contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 addressing multiple development initiatives.

Job Specific: The M&E Senior Associate will report directly to the M&E Specialist. She/he will be expected to support the rollout of M&E strategies across the country office projects and conduct regular missions to project locations to monitor and interact with project stakeholders in the execution of the projects. Applicants must have Sierra Leone Nationality or permit to work in Sierra Leone.

Functional Responsibilities

His/her duties include: Monitoring and Evaluation:

•  Contribute to formulating, rolling out and managing M&E strategies and plans, logframes and result tracking toolkits including gender-sensitive performance indicators and establishing baselines and methodology.
•  Coordinate with the mini-grid operators to get regular updates on result framework indicators.
•  Also, manage the update results in the google sheets, conduct analysis on the status and prepare periodic presentations for donors and UNOPS internally.
•  Conduct periodic spot-check visits to the project sites, collect M&E information and manage the project trackers. Also, visit the field data collection process (impact evaluation surveys) conducted by the third-party contractors.
•  Undertake necessary steps to clean and analyze M&E result related datasets (regular result management, impact monitoring and impact evaluation).
•  Undertake regular monitoring visits to the project sites independently or together with the Project Manager and the Project Team to ensure that performance indicators and targets remain relevant and in accordance with the project design and work plan.
•  Perform any other duties as requested by the supervisors and Project Manager.

Reporting and Documents Control:

•  Ensure that all the required datasets are in place for the donor review processes engaging the relevant stakeholders.
•  Contribute to the periodic assessments and surveys (e.g. site selection assessments, longitudinal study etc.) in terms of background document reviews, preparing updates and infographics for visualizations etc.
•  Prepare progress and monthly highlight reports in coordination with the project team, the Programme and Partnership teams.
•  Ensure timely and quality submission of reports as identified in the project agreement through coordinating inputs and drafting reports related to project activities.

Knowledge Management:

•  Contribute to finalizing the questionnaires and toolkits for capturing the most significant change stories, best practices and other impact stories. Also, coordinate data collection, analysis and report preparation.
•  Prepare presentations, infographics, fact sheets on M&E updates and results. Coordinate the communication of the results with the relevant stakeholders.
•  Contribute to developing, rolling out and managing the project dashboards.
•  Share knowledge with the project team members ensure coordinated delivery of activities and synergies.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

A. Education

•  Completion of Secondary School is required.
•  First Level University Degree (Bachelor's Degree) in Social Sciences, International Development, International Relations, Project Management, Development Studies, Statistics, or relevant disciplines with 3 years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of the 7 years of relevant experience outlined below.
•  A Master's Degree (Advanced University Degree) in Social Sciences, International Development, International Relations, Project Management, Development Studies, Statistics, or relevant disciplines with 1 year of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of the 7 years of relevant experience outlined below.

B. Work Experience

eLCVtLX C0zk15
•  A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in supporting program/ project monitoring and reporting is required.
•  Experience in the renewable energy, humanitarian, and/or development sectors is a distinct advantage.
•  High proficiency with computers, and other software/ platforms related to the position's field of expertise. Good experience in working with the G-Suite platform including Google Drive, Google Calendar, Gmail, Google Sheets, Docs, and Slides is a distinct advantage.
•  Excellent communication, coordination, and organizational skills, including the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders, is an asset.
•  Experience with an international donor organization and/or UN agencies is an advantage.
•  Experience in preparing, coordinating, and leading donor reporting processes is an advantage.
•  Ability to analyze online communications using performance indicators is a distinct advantage.

C. Language Requirements

•  Fluency in written, reading and spoken English Language is required.

D. Certification

•  Prince 2 Foundation or equivalent is an advantage.

Competencies

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

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Contract type, level and duration

•  Contract type: Local Individual Contract Agreement (LICA)
•  Contract level: LICA 7/ ICS 7
•  Contract duration: Ongoing ICA - ‘Open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds and satisfactory performance'.

For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link: https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx

Additional Information

•  Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
•  Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
•  Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
•  UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
•  Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
•  We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.
•  Freetown, Sierra Leone is a family duty station.

Terms and Conditions

•  All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
•  It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

APPLY

3.) Deputy Project Manager

Organisational Context:

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners' peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. Mandated as a central resource of the United Nations, UNOPS provides sustainable project management, procurement and infrastructure services to a wide range of governments, donors and United Nations organisations. With over 6,000 personnel spread across 80 countries, UNOPS offers its partners the logistical, technical and management knowledge they need, where they need it. By implementing around 1,000 projects for our partners at any given time, UNOPS makes significant contributions to results on the ground, often in the most challenging environments.

Project Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the project(s) and provides services to the different donors, partners and beneficiaries. Project Manager acts on behalf of the Project Board to manage the project on an ongoing basis during the Implementation Stage. The main responsibility of a Project Manager is to ensure that the project outputs are delivered within the specified project tolerances of time, cost, quality, scope, risk and benefits. He/she is expected to meet the organization's performance and delivery goals.

Under the direct supervision of the Project Manager, the Deputy Project Manager (Infrastructure) will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the project(s) and provide services to the different donors, partners and beneficiaries. S/he is expected to meet and exceed the organization's performance and delivery goals.

The Deputy Project Manager is responsible to produce/read the project initiation documents (PID), Legal Agreement and have a thorough understanding of the terms, conditions, and the respective roles and responsibilities of the partners/stakeholders to ensure the project(s) products are capable of meeting the business cases for both UNOPS and the client. The Deputy Project Manager is responsible for all aspects of the project infrastructure life cycle.

Diversity

With over 5,000 UNOPS personnel and approximately 7,000 personnel recruited on behalf of UNOPS partners spread across 80 countries, our workforce represents a wide range of nationalities and cultures. We promote a balanced, diverse workforce — a strength that helps us better understand and address our partners' needs, and continually strive to improve our gender balance through initiatives and policies that encourage recruitment of qualified female candidates.

Project Information:

Freetown's water supply system has been hugely impacted by a disproportionate trend in water supply as against the number of consumers. This has resulted in an intermittent water supply system to be able to serve consumers through rationing. Even though this is the most viable option to sustainably carry out the mandate of the GVWC, potential downsides to this include the risk of waterborne diseases through potential intrusion of contaminants into the distribution system from pressure transients during off-supply hours when the pipes are empty and pressures below atmospheric.

With funding from the Japanese government, the project ending in March 2025 covers technical studies including mapping of customer databases, validation and update of the existing network, procurement of pipes and fittings for leakage management, and establishment of well-defined DMAs to enable GVWC to carry out proper water balance. The main focus on leakage management will be the prevention of water ingress into the water supply system thereby improving the water quality reaching the consumers and subsequently incidences of waterborne and water-related diseases. Interventions will be developed taking into consideration the priorities for people in Freetown in collaboration with the Guma Valley Water Company. This intervention will benefit 250,000 people directly and 15,000 meter connections in Freetown

Overall objective

The project aims at increasing access to safe water and reducing waterborne diseases in Freetown.

Outcome

•  Improved and increased access to safe water in priority areas (beneficiaries: 250,000 people in Freetown)
•  Reduced Non-Revenue water (water loss, from current 45% to 35%, 10% reduction)
•  Improved network system resilience

Job Specific Information Under the direct supervision of the Project Manager, the Deputy Project Manager (Infrastructure) will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the project(s) and provide services to the different donors, partners and beneficiaries. S/he is expected to meet and exceed the organization's performance and delivery goals.

The Deputy Project Manager is responsible to produce/read the project initiation documents (PID), Legal Agreement and have a thorough understanding of the terms, conditions, and the respective roles and responsibilities of the partners/stakeholders to ensure the project(s) products are capable of meeting the business cases for both UNOPS and the client. The Deputy Project Manager is responsible for all aspects of the project infrastructure life cycle.

S/he must be able to apply, independently, the below duties and responsibilities of the project success criteria: Functional Responsibilities

•  Summary of functions:
•  Project Delivery and Performance
•  Procedures
•  Monitoring and reporting
•  Stakeholder engagement
•  Quality assurance
•  Knowledge management and innovation
•  Personnel management
•  Project Delivery and Performance
•  Develop, complete and update implementation plan(s)
•  Implement the approved plan (including the establishment of milestones) within tolerances set by the Project Board.
•  Embed sustainability dimensions including social and gender inclusion, environmental and economic aspects into project life span.
•  Manage the production of the required outputs, taking responsibility for overall progress and use of resources and initiating corrective action where necessary.
•  Ensure that quality of work packages and deliverables complies with the quality requirements defined in the Implementation Plan.
•  Liaise with any external suppliers or account managers.
•  Manage acceptance and delivery of work packages.
•  Monitor project progress ensuring that work packages are being executed properly.
•  Control project and work packages changes.
•  Accept goods, services or works delivered by suppliers.
•  Lead contract management duties including supplier performance evaluation.
•  Act as the Employer's Representative within the FIDIC works contracts.
•  Identify, and anticipate in a timely manner, potential risks and issues and advises mitigating measures to senior management/ Project Board so that maximum benefit to partner(s) and other stakeholders is achieved.
•  Identify and report to the supervisor potential business opportunities for UNOPS

2. Procedures

•  Comply with all organizational policy and specifically the Project Management Manual
•  Prepare/adapt all relevant plans for approval by the Project Board.
•  Manage the reporting obligations defined in the Legal Agreement(s) and in the Implementation Plan
•  Draft the requirements definitions for procurement processes. Approving requisitions and requests for non-purchase order payments; Evaluating submissions received, if appointed to the evaluation team.
•  Ensure maintenance of the project files and lessons learned are recorded
•  Ensure the development and implementation of project financial management guidelines and control mechanisms, in conformity with UNOPS rules and regulations.
•  Manage budgets, cash flow and obligations to ensure that deliverables are met and payments to contractors and personnel are received on time.
•  Understand and manage UNOPS overheads, allocable charges, and related corporate charges as they apply to the project
•  Understand the unique structures of the UN and budget appropriately for personnel
•  Manage expenditures against the budget (based on accurate financial reports)
•  Where the Deputy/Project Manager has no delegation as a committing officer, s/he retains these responsibilities and will monitor and instruct/request others to carry out the relevant commitments and disbursements.
•  For project closure purposes, provide a formal handover of the project to the closure manager
•  Support project audit activities, including planning, preparation and coordination during the audits and follow up on audit observations/recommendations

3. Monitoring and reporting

•  Ensure that the project(s) produces the required products within the specified tolerance of time, cost, quality, scope, risk and benefits. eLCVvxg C0zk15
•  The Deputy Project Manager is also responsible for the project producing a result capable of achieving the benefits to the satisfaction of UNOPS and the Client. Contribute to the overall business targets and needs.

4. Stakeholder engagement

•  In consultation with the Project Manager, establish solid working relationship with the project board (Executive, Senior Users and Senior Suppliers), client and key stakeholders
•  Manage communications and ensure stakeholders are aware of project activities, progress, exceptions and are in a position to accept handover products
•  Report and advise the Project Manager and the client on issues that may impact the achievement of their outcomes (including issues of sustainability and post project requirements such as maintenance)

5. Risk Management, Oversight and Quality assurance

•  Work with internal stakeholders to ensure projects comply with audit requirements
•  Work with procurement/purchasing staff to ensure effective interface with suppliers' quality systems
•  Coordinate quality reviews of project documents and deliverables
•  Provide quality control for management outputs (project documents, reports, etc.)

6. Knowledge management and innovation

•  Encourage routine and effective capacity building activities are conducted in order to build the long-term and sustainable capacity of staff.
•  Actively interact with other Deputy/Project Managers and the wider PM community to share case studies, lessons learned and best practices
•  Contribute to the oversight of lessons learned procedures, ensuring that lessons learnt are shared in a timely and appropriate manner. Participate in the relevant Communities of Practice
•  Research and logging of lessons learned throughout the project life span.
•  Provide feedback to Practice Groups on policy, supporting guidance with an aim towards continuous improvement of UNOPS policies

7. Personnel Management

•  Lead and motivate the project management team, if applicable
•  Ensure that behavioral expectations of team members are established
•  Ensure that performance reviews are conducted fairly, accurately and timely
•  Select, recruit and train the team as required and take into account gender parity and diversity objectives.
•  Ensure safety and security for all project personnel and comply with UNDSS standards
•  Create, foster and role model a culture of respect and zero tolerance for discrimination, abuse of authority, harassments, sexual harassment and sexual exploitation and abuse. Ensure accountability for actions and perform duties in accordance with protection mechanisms and action plans, as expected by UNOPS policies, standards and commitments.

Impact of Results

Deputy Project Manager directly impacts on achievement of project results by adhering to project management methods and strategies, reducing risks, cutting costs and improving success rates. This consequently reinforces the visibility and image of UNOPS as an effective service provider in project services and management and strengthens its competitive position as a partner of choice in sustainable development and project services.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

A. Education

•  Advanced University Degree (Masters Degree) in Project Management, Procurement/ Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Construction engineering, Architecture, vertical infrastructure (buildings, etc.) or other relevant discipline is required.
•  A Bachelor's degree with an additional 2 years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the education requirements outlined above.

B. Work Experience

•  A minimum of 2 years progressive experience in infrastructure is required;
•  Experience working in development sector is an added advantage;
•  Experience in a Project Management role (incl. Team Leader, Lead Engineer, Technical Coordinator, Deputy PM or Acting) in the delivery of development projects is highly desirable;
•  Demonstrated experience working with multidisciplinary teams is desired;
•  Past experience involved in procurement of goods/services/ works is a distinct advantage;
•  Knowledge of the UN system and familiarity with UNOPS procedures is an advantage.

C. Language Requirement

•  Full working knowledge of English is required.

D. Certification

•  PRINCE2® Practitioner Certification is an asset.
•  Managing Successful Project (MSP) Practitioner Certification is an asset.

Competencies

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

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Contract type, level and duration

•  Contract type: Local Individual Contract Agreement (LICA)
•  Contract level: LICA 9/ ICS 9
•  Contract duration: Ongoing ICA - ‘Open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds and satisfactory performance'.

For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link: https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx

Additional Information

•  Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
•  Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
•  Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
•  UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
•  Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
•  We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.
•  Freetown, Sierra Leone is a family duty station

Terms and Conditions

•  All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
•  It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

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