Regional Field Engineer (RFE) – UNDP, Konya, Turkey: A Comprehensive Job Overview

This job, Regional Field Engineer (RFE) with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Konya, Turkey, is focused on infrastructure development as part of the Göksu Taşeli Watershed Development Project (GTWDP). The project is funded by the Government of Turkey and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and aims to improve rural livelihoods, agricultural productivity, and natural resource management in 11 districts across Konya and Karaman provinces.
Key Responsibilities:http://Regional Field Engineer (RFE) – UNDP, Konya, Turkey
The RFE will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising civil works and infrastructure projects in rural areas. The job requires traveling across different project sites in Konya and Karaman. Specific duties include:
- Infrastructure Planning & Development:
- Identifying civil works and infrastructure needs such as roads, irrigation systems, storage facilities, and market access points for farmers.
- Conducting feasibility studies and preparing project plans.
- Project Supervision & Quality Control:
- Overseeing construction and rehabilitation projects, ensuring that they meet quality, safety, and environmental standards.
- Conducting site visits to monitor progress and resolve issues.
- Ensuring that work follows UNDP, IFAD, and Turkish public regulations.
- Procurement & Contracts Management:
- Assisting in preparing tender documents and procurement plans.
- Participating in bid evaluations and contractor selection.
- Ensuring contractors follow project requirements and timelines.
- Stakeholder Coordination:
- Working closely with government agencies, local communities, and development partners.
- Organizing orientation workshops for stakeholders to explain the project.
- Ensuring that infrastructure investments align with farmers’ needs.
Qualifications & Skills Required:
- Education:
- Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering (minimum 2 years of experience required) OR
- Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering (minimum 4 years of experience required).
- Experience:
- Experience in design, supervision, and implementation of civil works (construction, rehabilitation, infrastructure).
- Familiarity with tendering, procurement, and project management.
- Knowledge of public regulations related to civil works.
- Experience working on internationally funded projects (e.g., UN, IFAD, World Bank) is preferred.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel) and database management.
- Languages:
- Fluency in Turkish and English is required.
Work Environment & Contract Details:@vacancyspaces.com
- Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)
- Duration: 1 year (with a possibility of extension)
- Reporting To:
- UNDP Rural Development Projects Coordinator
- Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MoAF), General Directorate of Agrarian Reform
Why is This Role Important?
This job plays a critical role in improving rural livelihoods by developing essential infrastructure for farmers, such as better irrigation, market access, and natural resource management. The work supports poverty reduction, climate resilience, and economic growth in rural Turkey

Regional Field Engineer (RFE) – UNDP (Konya, Turkey)
Introduction to the Position
The Regional Field Engineer (RFE) is a key technical and managerial role within the Göksu Taşeli Watershed Development Project (GTWDP), which is funded by the Government of Turkey and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is overseeing the implementation of this project, focusing on rural development, natural resource management, and agricultural productivity.
This role is critical for supervising infrastructure development, ensuring high-quality implementation of civil works, and improving rural livelihoods. The engineer will be responsible for planning, monitoring, and executing construction and rehabilitation projects that contribute to sustainable agriculture, market access, and climate resilience in Turkey’s Konya and Karaman provinces.
The RFE will coordinate infrastructure projects, work closely with government agencies, manage procurement processes, and ensure compliance with UNDP and national regulations. The job also requires frequent travel within the project’s operational areas to oversee field activities and monitor the quality of civil works.
About the Göksu Taşeli Watershed Development Project (GTWDP)
Project Overview
The GTWDP is designed to reduce rural poverty, improve agricultural productivity, and enhance environmental sustainability in the Göksu sub-catchment area, covering 238 villages in 11 districts across Konya and Karaman provinces. The project focuses on:
- Sustainable farming practices
- Market access for smallholder farmers
- Environmental conservation
- Infrastructure development
Project Goals & Outcomes
The main objectives of the GTWDP are:
- Increase farm productivity through better infrastructure and resource management.
- Improve market access for smallholder farmers by building roads, storage facilities, and marketplaces.
- Strengthen community resilience against climate change through sustainable agricultural and water management practices.
- Support nomadic Yörük tribes by improving natural resource management and providing capacity-building opportunities.
Project Components
The project is divided into three key components:
- Agricultural Productivity & Natural Resource Management – Focused on increasing agricultural efficiency and sustainability through better irrigation, soil conservation, and watershed management.
- Market Access Enhancement – Supporting transportation, storage, and marketing infrastructure to help farmers sell their products at better prices.
- Project Management – Ensuring efficient implementation, monitoring, and coordination of activities.

Key Responsibilities of the Regional Field Engineer (RFE)
As a Regional Field Engineer (RFE), the selected candidate will be responsible for managing civil works, coordinating stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with technical and environmental standards. The role involves:
1. Infrastructure Planning & Development
- Identifying infrastructure investment needs for rural communities in agriculture, irrigation, roads, and market access.
- Conducting feasibility studies and preparing technical reports, engineering designs, and cost estimates.
- Ensuring that infrastructure investments align with rural community needs and the goals of GTWDP.
- Developing a pipeline of potential infrastructure projects that will be implemented over the course of the project.
2. Project Supervision & Quality Control
- Monitoring construction and rehabilitation activities to ensure quality, safety, and environmental sustainability.
- Conducting regular site inspections to ensure projects are progressing on time and within budget.
- Overseeing technical acceptance and physical handover of completed infrastructure projects.
- Ensuring compliance with UNDP, IFAD, and Turkish national regulations related to civil works and environmental impact.
3. Procurement & Contract Management
- Preparing tender documents and procurement plans for infrastructure projects.
- Participating in bid evaluations and contractor selection for construction projects.
- Coordinating with contractors and engineers to ensure the quality and timely completion of work.
- Managing contracts for infrastructure projects and ensuring that deliverables meet technical requirements.
4. Stakeholder Coordination & Community Engagement
- Working with government agencies, local communities, and private sector partners to implement civil works.
- Organizing workshops and stakeholder meetings to ensure community participation in infrastructure planning.
- Facilitating agreements between different stakeholders for managing and maintaining infrastructure.
5. Reporting & Documentation
- Preparing weekly, monthly, and annual progress reports for UNDP, MoAF, and IFAD.
- Documenting lessons learned and best practices to improve project implementation.
- Ensuring that project activities align with budget allocations and funding agreements.
Required Qualifications & Skills
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Education Requirements
- Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering (minimum 2 years of experience required) OR
- Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering (minimum 4 years of experience required).
Work Experience Requirements
- Experience in infrastructure and civil works projects (construction, rehabilitation, and project supervision).
- Familiarity with public procurement processes and tendering for construction works.
- Experience working with internationally funded development projects (e.g., UNDP, IFAD, World Bank, EU, ADB, EDB).
- Knowledge of environmental impact assessments and sustainable construction practices.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and database management.
- Knowledge of engineering design software is an advantage.
- Understanding of public rules and procedures related to civil works in Turkey.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in Turkish and English is mandatory.
Impact of the Regional Field Engineer Role
This position plays a crucial role in transforming rural communities by ensuring that infrastructure projects are:
✅ Efficiently planned and executed
✅ Environmentally sustainable
✅ Beneficial to farmers and local businesses
✅ Resilient against climate change
By improving roads, irrigation systems, and storage facilities, the RFE helps smallholder farmers:
- Increase agricultural yields
- Reduce post-harvest losses
- Access markets and sell their products at better prices
Additionally, the RFE will contribute to long-term climate adaptation and sustainability efforts by promoting:
- Water-efficient irrigation systems
- Soil conservation techniques
- Disaster-resilient infrastructure
Career Growth & Development Opportunities
Working as an RFE with UNDP provides:
✅ Opportunities to work on large-scale development projects
✅ Exposure to international organizations like UNDP, IFAD, and the World Bank
✅ Career growth in civil engineering, rural development, and project management
✅ Possibilities for contract extension and future UNDP roles
This job is ideal for engineers looking to make a meaningful impact in rural development while advancing their careers in civil engineering, sustainable development, and infrastructure management.
Conclusionwordpress-6.7.1
The Regional Field Engineer (RFE) position with UNDP in Turkey is a high-impact role focused on rural infrastructure development, civil works supervision, and stakeholder coordination. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to poverty reduction, agricultural development, and climate resilience while working with an internationally recognized organization.
Regional Field Engineer (RFE) – UNDP (Konya, Turkey)
1. Introduction to the Role
The Regional Field Engineer (RFE) is a crucial technical and managerial role within the Göksu Taşeli Watershed Development Project (GTWDP), a program jointly funded by the Government of Turkey and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
This project focuses on:
✅ Enhancing rural agricultural productivity
✅ Sustainable management of natural resources
✅ Infrastructure development for market access and climate resilience
The RFE will be responsible for supervising infrastructure projects, coordinating government agencies and contractors, and ensuring high-quality civil works implementation in Turkey’s Konya and Karaman provinces. The role demands frequent travel to project sites for monitoring and reporting.

2. Overview of the Göksu Taşeli Watershed Development Project (GTWDP)
2.1 Project Background
The GTWDP is a large-scale rural development initiative aimed at improving economic opportunities, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure in 238 villages across 11 districts in Konya and Karaman. The primary focus areas include:
- Sustainable farming practices to increase agricultural yields.
- Water resource management for irrigation efficiency.
- Infrastructure improvements such as roads, storage facilities, and marketplaces.
- Strengthening resilience to climate change through sustainable land management.
2.2 Key Objectives & Outcomes
The GTWDP aims to:
- Increase farm productivity through improved agricultural infrastructure.
- Enhance market access for smallholder farmers.
- Strengthen rural communities against climate change.
- Improve living standards for nomadic Yörük tribes through better resource management.
2.3 Project Components
The GTWDP consists of three main components:
- Agricultural Productivity & Natural Resource Management – Focuses on irrigation, soil conservation, and sustainable farming techniques.
- Market Access Enhancement – Includes the construction of roads, storage units, and marketplaces.
- Project Management – Ensures effective planning, coordination, and monitoring.
3. Key Responsibilities of the Regional Field Engineer (RFE)
The Regional Field Engineer (RFE) plays a vital role in planning, executing, and overseeing civil works under the GTWDP.
3.1 Infrastructure Planning & Development
- Identify infrastructure needs in consultation with project stakeholders.
- Prepare feasibility studies, cost estimates, and project designs.
- Ensure infrastructure investments align with project goals and community needs.
- Develop a list of potential infrastructure projects for future implementation.
3.2 Supervision & Quality Control
- Monitor civil works activities for compliance with technical and environmental standards.
- Conduct regular site inspections to ensure adherence to safety, budget, and timeline.
- Coordinate construction site supervisors to maintain high-quality implementation.
- Oversee final acceptance and handover of infrastructure projects.
3.3 Procurement & Contract Management
- Prepare tender documents and oversee the procurement of contractors.
- Participate in bid evaluations and contractor selection.
- Ensure contractors meet technical and environmental requirements.
- Manage contracts and resolve construction challenges.
3.4 Stakeholder Coordination & Community Engagement
- Collaborate with government agencies, private sector partners, and local communities.
- Conduct orientation workshops for project stakeholders.
- Ensure that local communities participate in infrastructure planning and maintenance.
3.5 Reporting & Documentation
- Prepare detailed reports on project progress and construction quality.
- Monitor and evaluate project impact.
- Ensure documentation complies with UNDP and IFAD reporting requirements.

4. Qualifications & Skills Required
4.1 Education
- Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering (minimum 2 years of experience) OR
- Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering (minimum 4 years of experience).
4.2 Work Experience
- Experience in infrastructure construction, rehabilitation, and project supervision.
- Familiarity with public procurement and tendering processes.
- Knowledge of internationally funded projects (e.g., UNDP, IFAD, World Bank).
- Experience in climate resilience and sustainable construction is a plus.
4.3 Technical Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Familiarity with engineering software (AutoCAD, GIS) is advantageous.
- Understanding of public rules and procedures related to civil works.
4.4 Language Requirements
- Fluency in Turkish and English is mandatory.
5. Expected Impact of the Regional Field Engineer
The RFE plays a crucial role in transforming rural communities by:
✅ Developing sustainable infrastructure for farming and market access
✅ Enhancing climate resilience through eco-friendly construction
✅ Creating better economic opportunities for smallholder farmers
✅ Improving rural roads, irrigation, and storage facilities
By improving rural infrastructure, the RFE helps local farmers:
- Increase agricultural yields and productivity
- Minimize post-harvest losses
- Improve connectivity to local and international markets
Table of Contents
6. Challenges in the Role
While the RFE position offers exciting opportunities, it also comes with challenges:
🚧 Managing construction in remote, mountainous areas
🚧 Ensuring sustainability and climate resilience in civil works
🚧 Coordinating multiple stakeholders with diverse priorities
🚧 Balancing project deadlines with budget constraints
Successful candidates must demonstrate problem-solving skills, adaptability, and leadership to navigate these challenges.
7. Career Growth & Development Opportunities
A Regional Field Engineer role at UNDP offers excellent career growth opportunities:
🚀 Experience working on internationally funded development projects
🚀 Exposure to global organizations like UNDP, IFAD, and the World Bank
🚀 Career advancement in civil engineering, rural development, and project management
🚀 Potential contract extensions or promotions within UNDP
Professionals in this role can transition into:
- Senior Engineering Roles in UNDP, IFAD, or World Bank Projects
- Infrastructure and Development Consultancy Roles
- Higher Managerial Positions in Government and NGOs
8. How to Apply
Application Process
1️⃣ Prepare a strong CV tailored to the role
2️⃣ Write a compelling cover letter highlighting relevant experience
3️⃣ Submit the application via UNDP’s job portal
4️⃣ Prepare for the interview by researching UNDP’s development initiatives
Job Link for Application
Apply Here: Regional Field Engineer (RFE) – UNDP, Konya, Turkey
9. Conclusion
The Regional Field Engineer (RFE) position at UNDP in Turkey is an exciting and impactful opportunity for civil engineers looking to make a difference in rural development, infrastructure, and climate resilience. It offers international exposure, career growth, and the chance to contribute to sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Introduction to the Role
The Regional Field Engineer (RFE) is a crucial position within the Göksu Taşeli Watershed Development Project (GTWDP), which is jointly funded by the Government of Turkey and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The project is implemented under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), focusing on rural infrastructure development, agricultural productivity, and climate resilience. The RFE is responsible for coordinating and supervising infrastructure projects that aim to enhance market access, water resource management, and sustainable farming practices.
About the Göksu Taşeli Watershed Development Project (GTWDP)
The GTWDP is a long-term initiative designed to improve the livelihoods of rural farmers and nomadic Yörük tribes in the Konya and Karaman provinces of Turkey. The project area consists of 238 villages across 11 districts, located in mountainous regions where elevation varies from 600 to 1,800 meters. The main goal is to reduce rural poverty, support economic diversification, and implement sustainable resource management practices. This is achieved by developing infrastructure, enhancing agricultural value chains, and increasing climate resilience through targeted investments.
Key Responsibilities of the Regional Field Engineer (RFE)
The RFE plays a vital role in ensuring the successful implementation of rural infrastructure projects. They will be responsible for identifying infrastructure needs, supervising construction activities, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and managing procurement processes. Additionally, the engineer will monitor project progress, provide technical guidance, and ensure quality control. Regular site visits and collaboration with local stakeholders are essential parts of the role to ensure that community needs are met efficiently and sustainably.
Infrastructure Development & Project Supervision
One of the primary responsibilities of the RFE is to oversee the design, construction, and rehabilitation of infrastructure projects. These projects include irrigation systems, rural roads, storage facilities, and marketplaces to improve farmers’ access to resources and markets. The RFE will conduct feasibility studies, prepare technical reports, and assist in tendering processes to ensure that the projects align with government regulations, environmental sustainability goals, and international best practices.
Stakeholder Coordination & Community Engagement
The RFE will work closely with government agencies, local authorities, private contractors, and rural communities. They will be responsible for facilitating discussions, organizing workshops, and ensuring that local farmers and nomadic communities actively participate in decision-making processes. Building strong relationships with stakeholders is critical for ensuring that infrastructure investments address the real needs of the local population and that resources are used effectively.
Challenges & Problem-Solving
This role comes with several challenges, including working in remote, mountainous locations, ensuring timely project completion despite budget constraints, and coordinating multiple stakeholders with different priorities. The RFE must be proactive, innovative, and adaptable, using strong problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles and ensure that projects are implemented efficiently and sustainably.
Qualifications & Skills Required
To be eligible for this role, candidates must have an advanced university degree (Master’s) in Civil Engineering with at least two years of experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with four years of relevant experience will also be considered. Candidates must have technical expertise in construction, project management, and procurement processes. Additionally, they should be fluent in both Turkish and English, as communication and reporting will be conducted in both languages.
Technical & Management Expertise
The RFE must have strong technical skills in civil engineering, including knowledge of construction standards, environmental regulations, and public procurement procedures. Experience with AutoCAD, GIS mapping, and engineering software is a plus. Additionally, the candidate should be familiar with UNDP, IFAD, or other international development projects to understand the reporting and compliance requirements for donor-funded infrastructure programs.
Impact of the Role
The Regional Field Engineer will play a crucial role in transforming rural infrastructure, making agriculture more efficient and resilient, and improving economic opportunities for local communities. By ensuring high-quality construction of irrigation systems, storage units, and market facilities, the RFE directly contributes to reducing rural poverty, strengthening food security, and promoting sustainable development in the region. The engineer’s work will have a long-lasting impact on the economic growth and well-being of thousands of smallholder farmers and rural families.
Career Growth & Future Opportunities
Working as an RFE at UNDP provides a unique career opportunity in civil engineering, rural development, and international project management. Successful candidates will gain valuable experience working on a globally recognized development initiative and have opportunities to advance into higher managerial roles within UNDP, IFAD, World Bank, or other international organizations. The skills developed in this role will also be highly transferable to infrastructure planning, environmental engineering, and rural development projects worldwide.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare a strong CV and cover letter highlighting their relevant experience in civil engineering, infrastructure supervision, and rural development projects. Applications should be submitted through the official UNDP job portal before the deadline. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews where they will be assessed on their technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and project management skills.
Job Link for Application
Apply Here: Regional Field Engineer (RFE) – UNDP, Konya, Turkey
Final Thoughts
The Regional Field Engineer position is a highly rewarding opportunity for civil engineers looking to make a real impact in sustainable development and rural infrastructure. By joining UNDP, candidates will be contributing to global efforts to improve agricultural productivity, enhance market access, and promote climate resilience in rural Turkey. If you are passionate about engineering, development projects, and making a positive difference in people’s lives, this role is an excellent opportunity to advance your career while helping communities thrive.