United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) continues to play a pivotal role in advancing peace, stability, and sustainable development in fragile and post-conflict settings around the world. One of its latest opportunities is the Project Engineer (NPSA-9) position based in Cotabato City, Philippines, under the EU4Normalisation Project.
This role is ideal for experienced civil engineers or architects who are passionate about using infrastructure development as a tool for peacebuilding, social inclusion, and long-term community resilience.
With the application deadline fast approaching, this position represents not only a professional milestone but also a meaningful chance to contribute directly to peace and normalization efforts in Mindanao.
Advancing Peace Through Infrastructure: The EU4Normalisation Project
The Project Engineer role is embedded within UNDP’s Peace and Stabilization Programme, specifically under the European Union Support to Normalisation (EU4Normalisation) initiative. This project builds on the success of the EU-funded PROACTIVE Project, which focused on transforming former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) camps into productive and peaceful communities.
EU4Normalisation aims to consolidate peace gains by supporting the transition and transformation of six previously acknowledged MILF camps. Through close collaboration with the European Union, Joint Peace Mechanisms, government agencies, and local communities, the project focuses on three core objectives:
- Empowering stakeholders such as peace mechanisms and camp leaders to implement inclusive, gender-responsive, and conflict-sensitive normalization processes.
- Transforming former camps by improving access to basic services and facilities through small-scale, quick-impact infrastructure projects that deliver visible peace dividends.
- Enhancing local conditions by supporting gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) through livelihood initiatives and social services for decommissioned combatants (DCs) and their communities.
Infrastructure development under this project is not just about construction—it is about restoring dignity, rebuilding trust, and creating environments where peace can take root.
The Role: Project Engineer (NPSA-9)
As a Project Engineer, you will be based full-time in Cotabato City, working closely with the Project Manager and reporting on a daily basis. The role sits at the intersection of engineering excellence, community engagement, and peacebuilding.
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Your primary responsibility will be to supervise and monitor construction works under the EU4Normalisation Project, ensuring that infrastructure interventions are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. You will also collaborate closely with UNDP programme teams, other UN agencies, government counterparts, donors, and civil society organizations.
This is a hands-on role requiring both strong technical expertise and the ability to work effectively in diverse, multicultural, and post-conflict environments.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Technical and Advisory Support
The Project Engineer provides expert advice on all engineering-related aspects of the project. This includes conducting technical assessments, reviewing designs and cost estimates, and ensuring quality assurance across all civil works. You will review contractors’ work plans, propose corrective actions when progress is delayed, and advise UNDP on potential risks related to timelines, budgets, and construction quality.
You will also oversee system testing, issue defect lists upon substantial completion, and ensure timely rectification of defects. Preparing completion certificates, final technical reports, and photographic documentation will be a critical part of your role.
Construction Supervision and Tendering Support
From planning to completion, you will support all stages of construction. This includes helping establish construction standards, developing technical documentation such as Terms of Reference (ToR) and tender dossiers, and participating in bid evaluations. Your role ensures that procurement and construction processes comply fully with UNDP rules and procedures.
Field Assessments and Site Visits
Regular field visits are central to this position. You will assess proposed infrastructure sites, analyze physical conditions, confirm land availability, and recommend the most appropriate technical solutions. Where necessary, you will prepare detailed designs and rehabilitation plans for project structures.
Reporting, Coordination, and Compliance
You will ensure that all documentation related to engineering works is properly prepared for tendering, implementation, payment processing, and final handover. The role also involves providing evidence-based feedback to the UNDP Country Office and participating in Technical Review Committee meetings to ensure transparency, accountability, and quality.
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Required Qualifications and Experience
UNDP is seeking highly qualified national professionals with strong technical and contextual experience.
Education
- A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field with at least 2 years of relevant experience, or
- A Bachelor’s degree in the same fields with at least 4 years of qualifying experience.
Professional Experience
- Experience in infrastructure or programme management, preferably in crisis or post-conflict settings.
- Progressive responsibility at the national or international level is required.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong proficiency in standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Excellent report-writing and documentation skills.
- Ability to monitor and evaluate construction projects systematically.
- Strong coordination, partnership-building, and problem-solving skills.
Desired Assets
- At least four years of experience in humanitarian or development infrastructure projects.
- Previous experience working with the UN or international organizations.
- Familiarity with Mindanao, particularly the BARMM region.
Languages
- Fluency in English and Filipino is required.
- Knowledge of local Mindanao dialects is a strong advantage.
Professional Certification
- Valid PRC License as a Civil Engineer or Architect is mandatory.
Core Values and Workplace Culture
UNDP is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and respect. The organization values professionals who demonstrate integrity, adaptability, collaboration, and a strong sense of accountability. All personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, with zero tolerance for harassment, exploitation, or abuse of authority.
Working with UNDP means being part of a global mission to reduce inequality, build resilience, and create sustainable solutions for communities most in need.
Why This Role Matters
The Project Engineer position in Cotabato City is more than a technical assignment—it is a chance to directly support peacebuilding through tangible infrastructure improvements. Schools, community facilities, water systems, and other structures built under this project symbolize hope, stability, and a shared future for communities emerging from conflict.
For professionals who want their engineering expertise to have real social impact, this role offers a rare and rewarding opportunity.
