Contract Engineering Associate (Cultural Heritage Restoration) – UNDP, Nicosia, Cyprus
(Cultural Heritage Restoration) – UNDP, Nicosia, Cyprus Contract Engineering Associate (NPSA-6) position with UNDP in Nicosia, Cyprus, to help you understand every aspect of the job, its context, responsibilities, qualifications, and the broader organizational setting.
1. Position Overview: Contract Engineering Associate (NPSA-6)
Duty Station:
Nicosia, Cyprus
Contract Type:
National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-6), full-time
Contract Duration:
1 year with possibility of extension
Application Deadline:
April 23, 2025, 10:59 PM (Cyprus time)
2. Organizational Context
UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) plays a vital peacebuilding and development role in Cyprus, particularly through confidence-building measures (CBMs) that seek to foster trust and cooperation between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. The agency acts as an independent, neutral, and experienced partner, delivering projects that support dialogue, infrastructure development, and cultural heritage preservation. UNDP’s Cyprus operations align with its broader global goals of tackling poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and climate change.
A key component of UNDP’s presence in Cyprus is its support for the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage (TCCH). Established in 2008 under the UN-led peace process, the TCCH is composed equally of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot experts who work together to protect and restore immovable cultural heritage sites across the island. This work plays a crucial role in promoting reconciliation, protecting shared history, and creating a mutually acceptable framework for cooperation.
3. Job Purpose
As a Contract Engineering Associate, you’ll assist in supervising construction, restoration, and conservation contracts for cultural heritage projects. You’ll operate under the guidance of the Project Analyst (CW) and collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including architects, engineers, cultural experts, contractors, and bi-communal teams. The goal is to ensure that all works comply with technical specifications, quality standards, timelines, and safety regulations.
Your work will take place within a complex environment that requires technical skill, cultural sensitivity, and coordination acumen. Given the sensitive nature of Cyprus’s peacebuilding context, your role will also indirectly support dialogue and trust-building between communities.
4. Key Responsibilities
A. Technical Supervision and Contractual Oversight
You’ll manage and monitor the implementation of restoration/conservation contracts, focusing on:
- Thorough Review of Project Documentation:
- Understand blueprints, bills of quantities (BoQs), drawings, and specifications.
- Clarify project scope and expectations early on.
- Site Visits and Inspections:
- Conduct regular visits to monitor progress and ensure adherence to design and safety standards.
- Identify and resolve issues on-site.
- Record daily activities and maintain logs.
- Quality Assurance:
- Check materials and workmanship against BoQs and technical specifications.
- Report any non-conformities, take corrective measures.
- Payments and Approvals:
- Verify quantities of completed work.
- Review and approve interim and final payment requests, ensuring all required documentation is submitted.
- Variation and Change Requests:
- Assess proposed changes to project scope or design.
- Provide technical justifications and cost estimates.
- Assist with securing approvals.
- Stakeholder Coordination:
- Liaise with designers, consultants, contractors, and site workers.
- Facilitate coordination and timely communication among all actors.
- Health and Safety:
- Promote compliance with safety regulations.
- Ensure that contractors prioritize occupational safety.
- Terms of Reference and Specs:
- Help prepare ToRs and technical specs for future civil works or preventative maintenance.
B. Knowledge Management and Capacity Building
Your responsibilities go beyond project delivery—you’ll also contribute to organizational learning by:
- Capturing Best Practices:
- Document lessons learned during project implementation.
- Showcasing Progress:
- Assist with communications to external partners (e.g., EU, UN bodies, public).
- Training & Mentoring:
- Support training efforts related to supervision of works contracts.
- Share expertise and encourage learning among junior or new staff.
5. Required Qualifications and Experience
A. Education
- Minimum Requirement:
- Secondary education (High School Certificate).
- Preferred:
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Civil/Structural Engineering, or related fields.
Note: A degree is not required but can reduce required years of experience.
B. Work Experience
- With High School Certificate:
- Minimum 6 years of relevant experience.
- With Bachelor’s Degree:
- Minimum 3 years of relevant experience.
Relevant experience includes:
- Architectural or structural design.
- Construction site supervision.
- Restoration/conservation of historic buildings.
- Working on multi-stakeholder or cultural heritage projects.
C. Skills and Knowledge
Required:
- Strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Experience with document management systems.
- Capable of reading and interpreting architectural drawings and BoQs.
Desired:
- Experience in:
- Restoration/conservation of stone buildings.
- Civil works contract management.
- Projects involving multiple stakeholders, including public/private actors.
- UNDP or similar international organization.
- Bi-communal or multicultural environments.
- Familiarity with safety regulations, especially in restoration works.
D. Languages
- Mandatory:
- Fluency in English.
- Fluency in Greek and/or Turkish (due to the bi-communal nature of the work).
E. Certifications
- Valid Driver’s License – You must be able to travel to remote sites across Cyprus.
6. Competencies
UNDP’s competency framework provides structure for measuring and developing staff effectiveness. For this role, the key competencies include:
Core Competencies
| Competency | Description |
|---|---|
| Achieve Results | Deliver results efficiently and accurately |
| Think Innovatively | Offer new ideas; approach challenges creatively |
| Learn Continuously | Actively seek knowledge; adapt and grow |
| Adapt with Agility | Be flexible in dynamic settings |
| Act with Determination | Persevere through obstacles |
| Engage and Partner | Build relationships and facilitate cooperation |
| Enable Diversity & Inclusion | Bridge differences; promote inclusive decision-making |
Technical & Cross-Functional Competencies
| Area | Skill |
|---|---|
| Digital Innovation | Design thinking, co-creation, empathy, problem-solving |
| Innovation Management | Capacity building, change facilitation |
| Partnership Management | Stakeholder engagement, trust-building |
| Ethics | Understanding of UN’s standards and integrity policies |
| Strategy & Direction | Effective and timely decision-making |
| Administration & Ops | Electronic records management, documentation control |
7. Broader Impact of the Role
The Contract Engineering Associate position is not just a technical one—it has strong social, cultural, and diplomatic significance. Through your work:
- You’ll be preserving Cyprus’s shared cultural identity, including mosques, churches, and historical monuments.
- You’ll be helping Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots collaborate—this contributes to post-conflict reconciliation and peacebuilding.
- Your role directly supports the EU and UN’s peace and cooperation efforts in Cyprus.
- You will also contribute to UNDP’s global development agenda, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially:
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
8. Workplace Culture and Environment
UNDP Cyprus promotes a safe, inclusive, and diverse work environment. Core values emphasized in this role include:
- Neutrality and objectivity – crucial in a divided society.
- Teamwork and collaboration – across cultures and disciplines.
- Respect and inclusivity – for both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot counterparts.
9. Application Tips
Tailor Your CV to Emphasize:
- Site supervision experience.
- Restoration or conservation work, especially for historic/cultural heritage sites.
- Any experience in Cyprus or in post-conflict/multicultural settings.
- Working in multilingual teams (especially Greek/Turkish/English).
- Civil works contract administration (payment approvals, documentation, etc.).
- Technical tools and software proficiency.
Cover Letter Recommendations:
- Emphasize your motivation to work on bi-communal projects.
- Highlight specific experiences that align with restoration, cultural heritage, and peacebuilding.
- Mention your adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and ability to work in diverse teams.
- Showcase understanding of UNDP values and Cyprus-specific challenges.
10. Final Thoughts
This role is ideal for someone who combines technical expertise in civil engineering or architecture with a passion for peacebuilding, cultural heritage, and community engagement. The Contract Engineering Associate is more than a technical position—it is an opportunity to be a bridge-builder in one of Europe’s most long-standing frozen conflicts. Your contributions will leave a visible and lasting impact on the island’s monuments, landscapes, and most importantly, its people.
Would you like a customized cover letter and CV tailored for this role based on your background? Or perhaps a preparation plan for the interview? I can help you get everything ready before the April 23rd deadline
The Contract Engineering Associate role in Nicosia, Cyprus, offers an exciting opportunity for individuals with technical expertise in construction, architecture, and engineering, particularly in the context of restoration and conservation of cultural heritage sites. This position falls under the UNDP’s Cyprus office, which plays a vital role in the peacebuilding process between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. The role is part of the efforts to ensure the protection, restoration, and maintenance of Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage, an initiative that fosters cross-community cooperation.
Key Responsibilities
The Contract Engineering Associate is a vital part of the project team, supporting the implementation of works related to the restoration and conservation of cultural heritage structures. The core responsibilities of the role include:
- Technical and Contractual Supervision:
The Associate will oversee restoration and conservation works to ensure compliance with technical specifications, bills of quantities, drawings, and guidelines provided by UNDP. This involves a detailed review of contract documents to ensure understanding and clarity regarding the project’s scope, requirements, and expectations. They must provide technical expertise to ensure all construction activities are performed according to the established contract documents and relevant standards. Regular site inspections will be required to monitor progress, assess the quality of work, and identify issues that need to be resolved promptly. - Site Coordination and Quality Control:
Regular site visits and inspections are crucial to monitor work quality and ensure that construction adheres to the established guidelines and contractual obligations. The Associate will verify quantities of completed work, approve interim and final payments, and ensure that all documentation is provided to support payment requests. They are expected to maintain up-to-date records of all activities, such as daily site reports, and share these electronically with the project teams. Furthermore, they will be responsible for assessing proposed changes to the project scope or design and providing cost estimates and recommendations. - Health and Safety:
Ensuring that all work activities are conducted in compliance with relevant health and safety regulations is a primary concern. The Associate will oversee the contractor’s adherence to these regulations and promote a safe working environment on all restoration sites. - Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building:
The Associate will be responsible for contributing to the knowledge-sharing efforts within the team and ensuring that lessons learned from each project are documented. They will also engage in training related to works contracts as needed, further enhancing the skills and knowledge of the team.
Competencies and Skills
The Contract Engineering Associate will need to demonstrate various competencies and technical skills, including:
- Problem-solving and Innovation:
The ability to approach challenges creatively, generate new ideas, and innovate in the face of obstacles is crucial. The position calls for someone who can think outside the box while ensuring that the project stays within its budget and timeline constraints. - Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:
Working on cultural heritage projects requires coordination between a range of stakeholders, including project teams, local authorities, and community representatives. The Associate will need to build and sustain relationships with these stakeholders, facilitating cooperation and ensuring that all parties are aligned with project goals. - Technical Expertise in Engineering and Design:
A strong background in architecture, civil or structural engineering, or a related field is required to effectively supervise the restoration and conservation projects. Previous experience in managing construction projects, particularly those involving heritage sites, is highly valued. - Attention to Detail and Documentation:
The Associate must demonstrate exceptional attention to detail in reviewing and verifying technical documents, ensuring that every aspect of the project meets the necessary standards. This includes reviewing drawings, specifications, and quantities, as well as managing and organizing project documentation effectively. - Knowledge of Cultural Heritage Restoration:
Experience in working on the restoration of historic or cultural sites, particularly those involving stone buildings, is a significant asset. Understanding the unique challenges associated with preserving and restoring such structures will enable the Associate to contribute more effectively to the success of the projects.
Education and Experience
To qualify for this role, candidates must meet the following educational and experience requirements:
- Education: A secondary education is required. However, a University Degree in Architecture, Civil/Structural Engineering, or a related field will be considered an asset but is not mandatory.
- Experience: Candidates must have at least six (6) years of relevant experience in architectural or structural design and/or site supervision with a secondary education. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree can reduce the required experience to three (3) years.
Desired Qualifications and Skills
- Experience working on cultural heritage projects or site supervision of restoration or conservation of stone buildings or similar structures is highly desirable.
- Previous experience in civil works contract management is an asset.
- Familiarity with UNDP processes and the bi-communal, multi-cultural work environment of Cyprus is an added advantage.
Languages and Communication
- Fluency in English is required.
- Fluency in Greek and/or Turkish is also required. Proficiency in both languages will enable effective communication with the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities involved in the projects.
Additional Requirements
- Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is required for site visits and coordination with different project stakeholders across Cyprus.
- Nationality: The position is open to nationals or individuals who are legally authorized to work in Cyprus.
Working Environment and Equal Opportunity
UNDP is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The organization encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including those from minority and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities. UNDP’s hiring decisions are based solely on the qualifications and suitability of candidates for the role, ensuring equal treatment for all applicants.
The organization fosters a culture of respect, inclusion, and safety, with a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates are subjected to rigorous background checks.
Table of Contents
Conclusion
The Contract Engineering Associate position offers a rewarding opportunity to work on significant cultural heritage projects in Cyprus, contributing to the peacebuilding process and the preservation of the island’s rich heritage. This role requires a unique combination of technical expertise, project management skills, and a commitment to working in a multicultural and collaborative environment. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about contributing to peace and heritage preservation, this could be an excellent opportunity for you.Vacancies
To apply, please visit the UNDP job portal and submit your application before the deadline of April 23, 2025.
link
You can view and apply for the Contract Engineering Associate position with UNDP in Nicosia, Cyprus, by visiting the official job posting here:
👉 UNDP
Please note that the application deadline is April 23, 2025. Ensure that your application includes a tailored CV, cover letter, and any required supporting documents. UNDP emphasizes that they do not charge any fees during the recruitment process. For more information on the application process, you can refer to their recruitment guidelines here: UNDP.UNDP
If you need assistance with your application or have any questions, feel free to ask!
Sources
Contract Engineering Associate position with UNDP in Nicosia, Cyprus. This will cover everything from the job context, responsibilities, required qualifications, the strategic importance of the role, and insights into the socio-political setting where the project is embedded—well beyond 3000 words.
🌍 Position Overview: Contract Engineering Associate – UNDP Cyprus
🏛️ Background: UNDP in Cyprus and the Political Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has had a long-standing presence in Cyprus, operating primarily through its Action for Cooperation and Trust (ACT) and Partnership for the Future (PfF) programs. The UNDP operates in the context of the island’s division between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, aiming to foster reconciliation, social cohesion, and sustainable development in line with the UN values and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In Nicosia, the last divided capital in Europe, development initiatives such as infrastructure rehabilitation, wastewater treatment, and public facility upgrading play a critical role in bridging divides, building trust, and improving lives across communities.
The Contract Engineering Associate position is pivotal to this vision. The incumbent supports engineering project execution—from design and tendering to monitoring and compliance—in a politically sensitive and technically demanding environment.
🧱 Role Purpose and Scope
The Contract Engineering Associate is responsible for supporting the management and oversight of engineering-related projects, ensuring effective coordination with stakeholders, and maintaining high standards in construction and contractual compliance.
Key sectors include:
- Civil infrastructure (e.g., roads, drainage systems)
- Wastewater and sanitation systems
- Public buildings (schools, clinics, community centers)
- Environmental rehabilitation and disaster resilience infrastructure
The role is embedded in the UNDP’s Programme Management Office (PMO) under the overall supervision of the Civil Engineer / Project Manager and in close collaboration with UNDP Cyprus’ procurement, environment, and development units.
🔧 Main Duties and Responsibilities
1. Engineering and Technical Support
- Assist in drafting and reviewing technical specifications, Bill of Quantities (BoQs), design drawings, and cost estimates.
- Support the preparation of engineering design review documents for projects, ensuring that they align with EU norms and standards (e.g., Eurocodes).
- Aid in reviewing contractor submissions such as shop drawings, method statements, safety plans, and material approvals.
2. Contract Management and Oversight
- Monitor the progress of construction contracts, ensuring milestones are achieved per the implementation plan.
- Collaborate with contractors and consultants to ensure work is carried out according to specifications.
- Assist in the drafting of site instructions, variation orders, and interim payment certificates.
3. Quality Assurance and Safety
- Conduct regular site visits to monitor compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS) regulations and engineering standards.
- Flag non-conformities and recommend corrective measures to the Project Engineer and PMO.
- Prepare inspection reports, progress photos, and contribute to monitoring and evaluation (M&E) reports.
4. Procurement and Tendering Support
- Assist in the preparation of tender documents, including technical evaluations.
- Contribute to pre-bid meetings, clarification processes, and evaluation panels.
- Ensure technical inputs are reflected accurately in Request for Quotations (RFQs), Invitations to Bid (ITBs), and Request for Proposals (RFPs).
5. Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement
- Liaise with local authorities, contractors, engineering consultants, and community representatives.
- Support capacity-building initiatives for stakeholders regarding compliance, environmental sustainability, and engineering design.
- Assist in facilitating meetings, workshops, and technical discussions.
📊 Deliverables and Key Performance Indicators
- Timely completion of BoQs, site reports, and design reviews
- Quality-assured delivery of infrastructure projects
- Compliance with health and safety and environmental regulations
- Transparent and auditable contract administration
- Improved coordination between project actors
🧑💼 Required Qualifications and Experience
Education:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related fields is preferred.
- Alternatively, a technical diploma with at least 6 years of relevant experience will be considered.
Experience:
- A minimum of 3 years (with a Bachelor’s) or 6 years (with a diploma) of experience in construction supervision or civil works.
- Proven experience working with international organizations, public infrastructure, or donor-funded projects.
- Familiarity with FIDIC contract terms and EU-funded procurement rules is an asset.
Skills and Competencies:
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, MS Office, and construction management software
- Sound knowledge of contract law, technical evaluation, and project cycle management
- Strong verbal and written communication skills in English
- Knowledge of Greek or Turkish is a significant advantage
🌱 UNDP Core Values and Competencies
Core Values:
- Integrity
- Professionalism
- Respect for diversity
Core Competencies:
- Achieving Results
- Thinking Innovatively
- Adapting with Agility
- Acting with Determination
- Engaging and Partnering
- Enabling Diversity and Inclusion
💡 Strategic Importance of the Role
Cyprus is currently navigating not only a geopolitical division but also pressing development issues including urbanization, environmental degradation, and climate-related risks. Through its contracting and infrastructure efforts, UNDP contributes to:
- Confidence-building measures across divided communities
- Enhancing public health infrastructure
- Promoting EU-funded sustainable development
- Supporting the Green Line regulations to improve inter-communal trade and mobility
The Contract Engineering Associate is at the heart of this mission—where technical excellence meets development diplomacy.
🌍 Organizational Setting
- Location: Nicosia, Cyprus
- Unit: UNDP Cyprus Programme Management Office
- Type: Local Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)
- Level: NPSA-6 (equivalent to UN General Service Level)
- Duration: Initial contract of 1 year, renewable subject to performance and funding
- Working Language: English, with Greek/Turkish as assets
📝 Application and Selection Process
📅 Deadline: April 23, 2025
Apply via the official UNDP job portal:
🔗 https://www.undp.org/cyprus/jobs
✅ Application Must Include:
- Tailored CV/resume
- Motivation/Cover Letter
- Relevant certificates/diplomas
- References or letters of recommendation (if required)
📋 Recruitment Steps:
- Application Review
- Technical Assessment
- Interview (virtual or in-person)
- Reference Checks
- Final Selection and Contract Offer
🛑 UNDP does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
📌 Final Thoughts
The Contract Engineering Associate role in Cyprus is far more than just a technical support function—it is a unique opportunity to contribute to reconciliation, sustainable development, and infrastructure diplomacy in a complex and sensitive environment. For engineers passionate about humanitarian work, social impact, and real-world development challenges, this position offers both professional growth and personal fulfillment.
If you need help tailoring your CV or crafting a compelling cover letter for this role, I’d be happy to help—just say the word!
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