Project Manager (SISSTEM)

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Aruba has embarked on implementing a sustainable development strategy as a key pillar of its overall development by reducing its dependence on the tourism industry, as well as its use of fossil fuels and is pursuing initiatives to facilitate a ‘green’ knowledge economy driven by innovation. In so doing, the Government of Aruba (GoA) has identified the need to enhance its human resource capacity in higher education in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and has endorsed the establishment of a group of programmes for Sustainable Island Solutions through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (SISSTEM) at the University of Aruba (UA). 

The key objective of the project is that the UA will be able to deliver tertiary level educational programmes (Bachelor’s and Master’s Level) as well as a research offer with particular focus on the STEM subjects. The SISSTEM Project will result in an increase in the number of persons with expertise and technical skills for innovative, sustainable development in Aruba, in the Caribbean, as well as, in other Small Island Developing States (SIDS). UNDP has been selected as the implementing partner for the new faculty expansion which will secure and make available physical facilities to house the new Bachelor STEM Programme, a Master’s Programme in Sustainability and a new Research Institute.  

The SISSTEM Faculty Expansion Project will include refurbishment of the Maria Convent in Aruba to accommodate multifunctional classrooms for 25 to 50 students and office space for 25 staff members, as well as, construction of laboratories (one Chemistry lab, one Physics lab, one Biosciences lab and one ICT lab) as well as procuring furniture and equipment for all classrooms, offices and laboratories.

The Project Manager will be based in Aruba but will be part of the UNDP Country Office in Trinidad and Tobago (TTCO) reporting to the UNDP Resident Representative or her designate. He/She will be responsible for the overall execution of the Project.  The Project Manager will ensure the effective and efficient day to day management of the project under the overall guidance of UNDP and under the advice of the Project Board. The Project Manager will be responsible for the overall implementation of all project activities including, project planning and reporting, oversight of tender set adjustment and scope in liaison with the design & supervision consultant firm, oversight of project implementation, monitoring and management of risks, managing stakeholder relationships, supporting project reviews and audits and conducting project closure activities and preparing all documentation for Project Board review.

Responsibilities of the Project Manager include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Assumption of direct responsibility for managing the project by ensuring that:
   1. Prepare and maintain a comprehensive project implementation plan inclusive of the project’s workplan, budget and risk log.
   2. Development of Terms of Reference for procurement of all goods and services for the project;
   3. Day to day oversight of all contractors, review and approval of deliverables..
   4. Mobilisation of all works contractors and supplier supervision of all work in accordance with letters of agreement or works contract.
   5. Plan weekly technical meetings in liaison with the design & supervision consultant firm once the works roll out with design architect, contractor and UNDP
   6. Plan joint monthly site meetings, including agenda in liaison with the design and supervision consultant firm once the works roll out with participation of the design architect, contractor, local stakeholders, and UNDP
   7. Plan a one half-day training on sexual harassment and abuse around construction sites with participation of the contractor, design architect, local stakeholders, and UNDP and ensure that cases reported including complaints filed regarding nuisances caused by the contractor are on the monthly agenda for resolve or referral to local social welfare and counselling entities
   8. Maintain oversight and document architect-and engineers’ site instructions (AIs / EIs) for the works contractor and if proposed instructions affect the budget or scope of the project bring these to attention during technical and joint site meetings for discussion and agreement.
   9. Oversee daily project implementation and identification and management of risks and taking corrective action where necessary with the approval of the Project Board or TTCO;
   10. Plan in liaison with the design and supervision consultant firm the practical completion phase up to formal handover to the end-users of the SISSTEM faculty
   11. Plan in liaison with the design and supervision consultant firm for the 12-month defects liability phase (DFL) up to final completion
   12. Management of key stakeholders throughout project implementation process.

2. Assumption of direct responsibility of managing the project budget by ensuring that:
   1. project funds are disbursed properly;
   2. expenditure is in accordance with the project document and project work plans;
   3. accounting records and supporting documents are kept in order and financial reports are prepared; 
   4. financial operations are transparent; and
   5. compliance with financial procedures/regulations.

3. Preparation of all project reports as required. These will include progress reports, mission reports, quarterly reports, annual reports, maintenance of a risk log, lessons learnt log and the final project report.

4. Engagement and coordination of key stakeholders to ensure effective and efficient management of project.

5. Supervision of staff and consultants of the UNDP Aruba Project Team.

6. Ensuring strict application of UNDP’s rules and regulations in accordance with the donor requirements.

7. Responsibility for organizing project board meetings, board papers and minutes and keeping the project board up to date on project progress and implementation issues.

1. Commitment to UNDP’s mission, vision, and values.
2. Sensitivity to cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age differences.
3. Demonstrated ability to function in a team environment and to deal with complex multi-stakeholder relationships.
4. Demonstrated experience in critical analysis and thinking, problem solving and strategic planning.

1. A Master's degree in construction management, civil engineering, architecture or related field. A Bachelor's degree with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered.
2. At least 5 years of extensive experience in project management, planning, and implementation or minimum 7 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree.
3. Experience with donor funded development projects.
4. Experience in managing international construction projects.
5. Procurement background (civil works) and CIPS Certification will be considered an asset.
6. Substantial experience in managing diverse, multi-disciplinary teams.

Important information for US Permanent Residents ('Green Card' holders)

Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment. 

UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.

Applicant information about UNDP rosters

Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

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