Only candidates who are not nationals of the country of assignment are eligible to apply to this position
Hardship Level
A (least hardship)
Family Type
Family
Residential location (if applicable)
Grade
PR3
Staff Member / Affiliate Type
Professional
- Staff members will not normally serve in International Professional positions in the country of their nationality. In addition, in case of a first appointment upon recruitment, the assignment must be outside the staff member's country of nationality.
In practical terms this means that you are not eligible to apply for International Professional vacancies advertised in the country where you are national of.
Reason
Regular Regular Assignment
Remote work accepted
No
Target Start Date
2024-08-01
Job Posting End Date
November 28, 2023
Standard Job Description
Building Services Officer
Organizational Setting and Work Relationships
The Building Services Officer will work closely with administration, programme, shelter/wash, security and other relevant units, and will cover all civil work required in a UNHCR office. The incumbent is normally supervised by the Senior Administrative or Finance Officer, who defines the work objectives and provides direction. . The Building Services Officer will participate in the implementation of UNHCR global infrastructure services strategies and continuous initiatives under the functional guidance and leadership of the Global Infrastructure Section. The incumbent normally supervises staff in the general service category, specifically those working in property management and related technical areas.
The incumbent provides technical and specialized guidance and support to the implementation of civil engineering activities of UNHCR office premises, staff housing, refugee registration centres, warehouses and other structures in accordance with the prevailing rules and regulations including environmental considerations. Furthermore, the incumbent provides technical inputs to the development, of technical documents (technical drawings, bills of quantity, technical assessment of offers, measurements of quantities of works and supply of materials, etc.)
The incumbent is responsible to maintain hard and soft copy of project and technical documentation and will have contacts with UNHCR staff, technical counterparts in other UN agencies, commercial service providers, partners, etc. on relevant subject matters in close coordination with the direct supervisor.
All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.
Duties
- In cooperation with relevant technical units and departments, formulate proposals for disposal of premises and/or support identification, selection and alteration of new buildings/ premises considering also the environmental impact of actions.
- Draft quotation requests and/or tenders and contribute to the evaluation of offers and proposals.
- In close collaboration with the Global infrastructure Section, monitor and support the implementation of project related to office premises and other UNHCR buildings and structures, such as staff housing, refuge reception areas and warehouses.
- Propose most convenient solutions between purchase and lease of premises, considering full life cycle and existing alternatives.
- Provide civil engineering advice and technical guidance for the management of office buildings including support for tendering processes as well as development of service contracts. Work closely with security and others, if necessary in maintaining/installing technical security installations in the buildings under the area of responsibility.
- Support the preparation of plans, specifications and Terms of Reference for construction projects according to operational needs.
- Ensure that operations obtain all necessary documents to establish ownership of land and buildings and satisfy national and international requirements regarding the buildings safety and adequacy to the planned use and occupancy.
- Conduct field missions to support operation(s) within the area of responsibility in construction and contracting or contract management related matters.
- Analyse contract terms, contract deliverables and payment applications.
- Ensure timely delivery of civil engineering projects, according to best practices and prevailing UNHCR rules and regulations.
- Identify potential problems and risks during claims procedures and assist by reasonable means in selecting options for resolving them with the aid of the Legal Affairs Service (LAS).
- Advise on issues that may impact the achievement of project outcomes.
- Provide support on issues arising during general construction supervision including monitoring compliance with specifications, designs and contract management resolutions/advice.
- Monitor and analyse relevant data and provide status reports and updates.
- Support the wider UN greening initiative.
- Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).
- Perform other related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For P3/NOC - 6 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 5 years relevant experience with Graduate degree; or 4 years relevant experience with Doctorate degree
Field(s) of Education
Civil Engineering; Architecture; or other relevant field.
Certificates and/or Licenses
Not specified.
(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Relevant Job Experience
Essential
Proven experience in managing complex technical projects (preferably property related). Knowledge to interpret legal documents, surveys, construction drawings and title deeds. Proven ability to provide guidance and oversight in relation to acquisition, lease and or improvements of administrative premises. Advanced computer knowledge of AutoCAD and MS Office applications, including MS Access.
Desirable
UNHCR Field / HQ experience accompanied with knowledge of MSRP or other ERP systems is an advantage. In-depth knowledge of construction accounting and cost-benefit analysis. Project Management (Prince 2) or PMP. Proven ability to provide engineering support to projects internationally, specifically in relevant locations were UNHCR operates such as areas of conflict, war, fragile states and harsh conditions. Knowledge of principles and practices of property management
Functional Skills
- IT-Computer Assisted Design Software (e.g. AutoCAD)
EV-Environmental Mainstreaming
EV-Sustainable Environmental Land Use Management
MG-Project Management
PG-UNHCR's Programmes
PR-Local/Urban Development
SP-CAD 3D modeling for Settlement Analysis (eg. Infraworks, Civil 3D)
SP-Environmental Assessment/Planning/Monitoring/Evaluation of integrated projects/programs
SP-Infrastructure Development/Construction Management/Property Management
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.
All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power.
As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.
This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.
Desired Candidate Profile
The desired profile will include the following:
Extensive Experience in Field Operations: Emphasizing experience in roles within UNHCR or other International Organizations in field operation settings and demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced in diverse operational contexts.
In-depth Project Management in Various Domains: Highlighting experience not only in property-related domains but also in energy efficiency projects and complex technical projects broadens the scope and versatility of the candidate's skill set.
Commitment to Continuous Learning: Prioritizing a commitment to ongoing learning through certifications in relevant areas such as GIS, contracts management, management of claims and disputes resolution, project management, and clean and renewable energy that indicates adaptability and a proactive approach to skill development.
Strong Cross-Cultural Communication: The emphasis on collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders underscores the importance of effective communication, essential in a multinational and multicultural work environment.
Specific Operational Experience in Shelter and WASH: This experience is considered an asset, especially in challenging operational contexts, indicating a familiarity with the critical areas of focus for UNHCR's activities.
Required languages (expected Overall ability is at least B2 level):
,
,
Desired languages
,
,
Operational context
Occupational Safety and Health Considerations:
Amman is the home to many top-end hospitals and clinics. Due to Jordanian healthcare's international appeal, nearly all doctors and many support staff speak English. Healthcare here is also very accessible and affordable.
Nature of Position:
The Building Services Officer P3 plays a pivotal role within UNHCR Jordan's operational context, reporting to the Senior Administrative Officer and receiving technical direction from the Technical Coordinator for all projects related to buildings, premises, and offices across the country. UNHCR's mission in Jordan is actively engaged in the ongoing process of transitioning towards greater environmental sustainability across all offices within the country. This necessitates a continuous and intensive level of technical support for the administration of infrastructure and facilities, including offices, registration centers, and base camp offices.
The UNHCR operation in Jordan comprises several premises in Amman and in the field, which have served as the backbone for the organization's vital work for more than a decade, accommodating over 500 staff members. These facilities demand extensive maintenance, redesign, renovation, seating plans, and upgrading to ensure a safe environment for staff while incorporating new advanced technology and initiatives, such as renewable energy sources. When decided, the incumbent in this role is expected to lead efforts aimed at relocating to new premises that meet the highest standards of efficiency and sustainability, thereby reducing UNHCR's carbon footprint.
The Building Services Officer is responsible for coordinating with other technical teams on operational arrangements at the field offices and camps in Jordan. Additionally, the officer actively supports the greening the blue initiative within the operation, contributing to the broader environmental objectives of the United Nations. Overseeing relationships and engagements with maintenance and building contractors is another essential aspect of the role, ensuring that UNHCR's facilities are well-maintained and equipped to serve their critical functions.
Furthermore, the Building Services Officer is tasked with overseeing the lease contracts and efforts to obtain government and municipality permits for UNHCR premises and buildings, ensuring that all legal and regulatory requirements are met. In summary, this position is integral to ensuring the efficient, safe, and sustainable operation of UNHCR facilities across the country, aligning with the operation's objectives.
Living and Working Conditions:
Jordan has a total population of 9.4 million people. Amman houses 42% of Jordan's population, 4.008 million, making it the populous city in the country. Amman is categorized as (A) duty station.
Rent in Amman can vary depending on the size of the property itself, number of bedrooms and the area of Amman in which it is located. Renting a 3-bedroom apartment can range from 1100 2500 USD per month.
Amman tends to have a Mediterranean climate; summers are mildly hot, winter usually starts around the end of November and continues until mid-March, there is occasional snowfall.
The medium for teaching in international schools is English, however there are a few French language schools as well. There is a plethora of institutions for children of all ages from pre-school to high school as well universities.
The majority of international educational institutions are in Amman.
Skills
Additional Qualifications
Education
Bachelor of Arts (BA): Architecture, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Civil Engineering
Certifications
Work Experience
Competencies
Accountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Empowering & building trust, Judgement & decision making, Managing performance, Organizational awareness, Planning & organizing, Teamwork & collaboration, Technological awareness
UNHCR Salary Calculator
https://icsc.un.org/Home/SalaryScales
Compendium
Add. 1 to Bi-annual Compendium 2023 - Part B
Additional Information
Functional clearance
This position doesn't require a functional clearance
