Engineering Associate (NPSA-6) at UNDP Serbia: A Key Role in Infrastructure Development

March 15, 2025

10 minutes read

This Engineering Associate (NPSA-6, Part-Time 90%) position with UNDP in Belgrade, Serbia is part of the “Advanced Capacity for Accelerated Delivery Initiative” (ACADI) project, which supports the Ministry of Public Investments (MPI) in implementing projects funded by loans. The role focuses on infrastructure project support to ensure timely and efficient project execution.

Key Responsibilities:http://🔗 UNDP Jobs Portal

The Engineering Associate will assist in infrastructure project design, supervision, and quality assurance to ensure projects meet required standards within given time and cost constraints. Key duties include:

Project Design & Documentation:
- Assisting in the development of pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, preliminary and main designs, and revisions of design documentation.
- Providing support for tender documentation preparation and procurement processes.
Construction Supervision & Quality Assurance:
- Monitoring and supervising project design development and construction works.
- Identifying and suggesting solutions for design, material, and quality issues.
- Ensuring energy efficiency and compliance with environmental management regulations.
Project Management & Coordination:
- Reporting on-site monitoring findings to the Project Manager.
- Assisting with project risk assessments and early warnings of potential issues.
- Collaborating with contractors, municipalities, and government institutions.
Compliance & Documentation:
- Ensuring full adherence to UNDP project management rules and procedures.
- Supporting the development of monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
- Drafting correspondence on engineering-related issues for project leadership.

Who Can Apply?

Education:@vacancyspaces.com
- A Bachelor’s Degree in architecture, civil engineering, or related fields is preferred (3 years of experience required).
- Candidates with a high school diploma must have 6 years of relevant experience.
Work Experience:
- Experience in construction engineering, architecture, water supply, sewerage engineering, or civil engineering works.
- Knowledge of procurement processes, tender documentation, and infrastructure project supervision.
Skills & Certifications (Preferred):
- AutoCAD, 3D modeling, and MS Office proficiency.
- Experience with national legislation and Law on Planning and Construction.
- Relevant engineering licenses (e.g., 300, 310, 381, etc.) are an advantage.
- Previous work with international organizations or government institutions is beneficial.
Languages:
- Fluency in Serbian and English is required.

Other Details:

Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)
Duration: 6 months (Part-time, 90%)
Salary Grade: NPSA-6
Deadline to Apply: March 24, 2025

Why This Job?

This role is ideal for engineers with project management experience in infrastructure who are looking for an opportunity to contribute to public-sector projects in Serbia while working with an international organization like UNDP.

Would you like assistance with preparing an application, resume, or cover letter for this role?

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the Engineering Associate (NPSA-6, Part-Time 90%) position at UNDP in Belgrade, Serbia, expanding on various aspects of the job, responsibilities, qualifications, required skills, and career growth opportunities.

Engineering Associate (NPSA-6, Part-Time 90%) – UNDP, Belgrade, Serbia

Overview of the Position

The Engineering Associate position is part of the Advanced Capacity for Accelerated Delivery Initiative (ACADI), a project implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Public Investments (MPI). The goal of this initiative is to enhance the ministry’s capacity to implement infrastructure projects funded by loans and ensure timely and impactful project execution.

The Serbian government receives funding from various sources, including international financial institutions, to improve public infrastructure. These projects often involve significant financial investments, and any delays in project implementation can result in financial losses, including interest charges and penalties. The UNDP has been engaged to support the ministry in ensuring these projects proceed efficiently and meet their intended goals.

The Engineering Associate will play a key role in supporting the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) to manage engineering aspects of various public infrastructure projects. This includes design, supervision, quality assurance, and coordination with multiple stakeholders to ensure that projects are implemented according to best practices, safety regulations, and environmental sustainability standards.

Key Responsibilities

The Engineering Associate will provide technical support and project management assistance for various infrastructure initiatives. Their role will be focused on the entire lifecycle of construction projects, from feasibility studies to supervision and evaluation.

1. Project Planning & Design Support

Assist in the production of infrastructure project design documentation, such as:
- Pre-feasibility and feasibility studies
- Preliminary and main designs
- Revision of design documentation
Facilitate the needs assessment process with beneficiaries and stakeholders.
Support in the design of tender documentation and procurement guides for hiring contractors and vendors.
Provide technical inputs for drafting contracts related to goods and services procurement.
Ensure all designs meet safety, environmental, and efficiency requirements.

2. Construction Supervision & Quality Control

Assist in the supervision of infrastructure project development, including coordination and monitoring of construction work.
Identify problems, conflicts, or inefficiencies and recommend necessary design or material adjustments.
Monitor quality control of materials, construction techniques, and overall project adherence to specifications.
Manage corrections and improvements upon approval from the Project Manager.
Conduct on-site inspections to track progress and compliance with safety regulations.
Support the execution of works aimed at energy efficiency improvements and environmental management.

3. Reporting & Documentation

Prepare progress reports and summaries of on-site observations.
Provide early warnings of potential risks, delays, or budget overruns.
Collect, analyze, and present background information for the preparation of project annual work plans and reports.
Contribute to the creation of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to measure the impact of projects.
Ensure full compliance with UNDP project management rules and policies.
Draft correspondence on project engineering issues for internal and external communication.

4. Stakeholder Engagement & Coordination

Serve as a liaison between the UNDP, Ministry of Public Investments, contractors, municipalities, and other partners involved in infrastructure development.
Facilitate communication between engineers, project managers, and regulatory authorities.
Support the execution of tender processes and evaluation of contractor performance.
Ensure alignment of project activities with national legislation, policies, and guidelines.

Qualifications & Experience Required

Education Requirements

Minimum Requirement:
- A high school diploma with six (6) years of relevant experience in construction-related project management.
Preferred Qualification:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Water Supply and Sewerage Engineering, or a related field (candidates with a degree require only three (3) years of experience instead of six).

Work Experience

Candidates must have demonstrated expertise in construction-related project management, particularly in the fields of:

Structural Engineering (Construction Engineering)
Architecture
Water Supply and Sewerage Engineering
Low-Rise Civil Engineering Projects (Traffic Infrastructure, Public Works, etc.)

Skills & Competencies Required

Core Competencies

Achieve Results: Ability to meet deadlines, deliver quality work, and manage tasks efficiently.
Think Innovatively: Open to creative problem-solving and technical improvements in projects.
Adapt with Agility: Ability to work in dynamic environments and manage changes effectively.
Engage & Partner: Strong teamwork and collaboration skills with various stakeholders.
Enable Diversity & Inclusion: Understand and appreciate differences in culture, gender, and backgrounds.

Technical & Cross-Functional Skills

Construction Project Management: Ability to oversee infrastructure development, design reviews, and procurement processes.
Monitoring & Evaluation: Ability to track project progress, identify risks, and recommend corrective actions.
Digital & Technological Literacy: Proficiency in AutoCAD, 3D modeling, and digital tools for engineering and design.
Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding of national laws, building codes, and environmental standards.
Strong Analytical Skills: Ability to summarize and systematize complex technical information.

Preferred Additional Skills & Experience

Candidates with the following additional qualifications will have an advantage:

Experience in preparation of tender documentation, project design, and supervision of large infrastructure projects.
Possession of engineering licenses such as 300, 310, 381, 311, 321, 421, 330, 430, 341, 441, or equivalent.
Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and database management software.
Work experience with international organizations or government institutions.
Familiarity with the Law on Planning and Construction in Serbia.

Language Requirements

Fluency in Serbian (spoken and written) is mandatory.
Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required.

Contract & Work Conditions

Job Type: Part-time (90%)
Duration: 6 months (with potential extensions depending on project requirements)
Job Location: Belgrade, Serbia
Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA)
Grade Level: NPSA-6

Application Process

To be considered for this position, candidates must:

Complete the online application form with all details of their work experience, education, and skills.
Attach supporting documents (CV, references, relevant certifications, etc.).
Ensure all sections (Experience, Education, Language, and Nationality & Permanent Residence) are fully completed.

Conclusion: Why Apply?

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to national infrastructure development and gain international work experience through the UNDP. The position is ideal for engineering professionals looking for a challenging and rewarding career with real-world impact.

Would you like assistance with your resume, cover letter, or application strategy for this role?

Certainly! Below is an expanded and highly detailed analysis of the Engineering Associate (NPSA-6, Part-Time 90%) position at UNDP in Belgrade, Serbia. This extensive explanation covers various aspects of the job, from background information, duties, competencies, work environment, challenges, and opportunities for career growth to how this role fits into Serbia’s broader infrastructure development plans.

Engineering Associate (NPSA-6, Part-Time 90%) – UNDP, Belgrade, Serbia

1. Introduction to the Role

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading global development agencies, working in nearly 170 countries to address poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. In Serbia, UNDP supports numerous initiatives focused on economic growth, good governance, environmental protection, and infrastructure development.

The Engineering Associate (NPSA-6, Part-Time 90%) role is designed to strengthen project implementation capacity in Serbia’s Ministry of Public Investments (MPI). Specifically, this role supports the Advanced Capacity for Accelerated Delivery Initiative (ACADI), which ensures that large-scale infrastructure projects funded by loans are efficiently managed and executed.

Serbia is undergoing major infrastructure improvements, including roads, energy-efficient buildings, water supply systems, and public transport projects. These projects require specialized technical expertise, ensuring that they meet international safety and environmental standards while adhering to national laws.

The Engineering Associate will play a crucial role in this transformation by providing expertise in project planning, supervision, procurement, and quality assurance. This position is ideal for professionals with experience in construction project management, engineering design, and technical oversight.

2. Key Responsibilities & Duties

The Engineering Associate will be responsible for technical and administrative tasks to support Serbia’s infrastructure development efforts. The work will be divided into multiple areas, including planning, execution, monitoring, and stakeholder coordination.

A. Infrastructure Project Planning & Design Support

Assist in the development of technical documentation for infrastructure projects.
Support the preparation of:
- Pre-feasibility and feasibility studies
- Conceptual designs
- Preliminary and main project designs
- Revisions and modifications of design documentation
Collaborate with engineers, architects, and government officials to identify project requirements and align them with strategic goals.
Conduct site visits to assess existing infrastructure conditions and recommend necessary improvements.
Ensure compliance with national and international construction regulations.

B. Procurement & Tendering Process Support

Assist in the preparation of technical specifications for construction materials and services.
Develop tender documentation for hiring contractors.
Participate in the evaluation of bids and contractor selection.
Provide input on procurement policies to ensure cost-effectiveness and transparency.
Work closely with procurement teams to ensure that selected contractors meet quality and ethical standards.

C. Supervision & Quality Control

Monitor construction works to ensure compliance with project designs and technical standards.
Conduct site inspections to verify:
- Structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure
- Quality of materials used
- Adherence to safety protocols
Work with contractors to address design modifications, construction errors, and challenges in execution.
Identify and propose solutions to technical problems or construction delays.

D. Project Monitoring & Reporting

Develop progress reports and engineering assessments.
Analyze project budget utilization and efficiency.
Track project milestones and report potential delays.
Provide technical inputs for policy development and infrastructure investment strategies.

E. Coordination with Stakeholders

Liaise with government institutions, municipalities, and private sector partners.
Support the organization of meetings, workshops, and stakeholder consultations.
Serve as a technical advisor to project teams.
Ensure projects are aligned with Serbia’s economic and urban planning policies.

3. Required Qualifications & Experience

A. Educational Requirements

Mandatory:
- High school diploma with six (6) years of relevant experience.
Preferred:
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Water Supply and Sewerage Engineering, or a related field (candidates with a degree require only 3 years of experience instead of 6).

B. Work Experience

Candidates must have experience in at least one of the following areas:

Construction Engineering (Structural Design, Public Works, etc.)
Architecture (Building Design, Urban Planning, etc.)
Water Supply and Sewerage Engineering
Low-Rise Civil Engineering (Roads, Public Spaces, etc.)

4. Core Competencies & Technical Skills

A. Core Competencies

Results-Oriented: Ability to deliver high-quality work within tight deadlines.
Adaptability: Capability to work in a fast-changing environment.
Innovation & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to identify and address engineering challenges.
Collaboration & Partnership: Ability to engage with government agencies, contractors, and UNDP teams.

B. Technical Skills

Proficiency in AutoCAD, 3D modeling, and digital engineering tools.
Strong knowledge of construction laws, urban planning regulations, and safety protocols.
Experience in monitoring large-scale infrastructure projects.
Ability to prepare technical reports, financial plans, and risk assessments.

5. Work Environment & Career Growth Opportunities

A. Work Environment

Location: Belgrade, Serbia.
Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA).
Work Schedule: Part-time (90%).
Initial Contract Duration: 6 months (renewable based on performance and funding availability).

B. Career Growth & Development

This role offers professionals an opportunity to gain international experience in project management and public infrastructure planning. Engineers can develop expertise in policy-making, sustainable development, and high-profile infrastructure projects. Potential career advancements include:

Transitioning into senior engineering roles within UNDP or other international organizations.
Moving into government positions related to urban planning and public investments.
Specializing in smart cities, green infrastructure, and sustainable construction.

6. How This Role Supports Serbia’s Infrastructure Development

Serbia’s infrastructure sector is undergoing rapid expansion, particularly in:

Transportation (road and rail networks)
Water management (wastewater treatment and irrigation systems)
Energy efficiency (green buildings and public utilities)

This position directly contributes to Serbia’s national strategy for economic development and EU integration. Engineers in this role will be at the forefront of projects that modernize public infrastructure, reduce environmental impact, and improve urban resilience.

7. Application Process & Final Thoughts

A. Application Requirements

Candidates must fully complete the online application and provide:
- Detailed work experience history.
- Educational background.
- Language skills.
- Relevant certifications and licenses (if applicable).