Director of Planning and Design

Director Planning and Design Jobs in Lusaka – Road Development Agency (RDA) The Road Development Agency (RDA) invites qualified professionals to apply for the position of Director Planning and Design based in Lusaka, Zambia.

This exciting opportunity offers a senior leadership role within a statutory organization responsible for planning, managing, and coordinating the national road network to ensure sustainable and cost-effective infrastructure development.

About the Road Development Agency The RDA oversees the planning, maintenance, and construction of public roads across Zambia. It regulates permissible road weights, conducts research to improve the road network, and reviews design standards.

The agency is committed to fostering public-private partnerships to leverage private sector expertise and financing for public infrastructure projects. Position Overview – Director Planning and Design Reporting directly to the Director and Chief Executive Officer, the Director Planning and Design will provide strategic leadership and technical guidance in the planning, design, feasibility studies, environmental and social safeguards, and economic appraisal of Zambia’s road network.

The role demands a visionary leader capable of managing diverse stakeholders and driving the agency’s mandate forward. Key Responsibilities Lead the implementation of the Annual Work Plan for planning, design, construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of road and bridge projects.

Interpret and enforce contract terms related to project supervision, feasibility studies, and detailed engineering designs. Provide expert advice to the CEO on contractual and technical matters concerning works and services.

Participate in progress meetings and liaise with cooperating partners on project preparation and appraisal. Ensure timely and efficient design reviews and implementation of environmental management plans, including Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).

Oversee the operation of the Highway Management System (HMS) and coordinate road and bridge surveys. Manage in-house emergency design works and coordinate traffic, road capacity studies, materials testing, and research.

Supervise the preparation of project documentation, including feasibility studies and tender documents, and oversee procurement plan execution. Prepare board papers, cabinet memos, and technical reports for management and government.

Maintain up-to-date project records and databases, ensuring accurate reporting on progress and parliamentary queries. Perform any other lawful duties assigned by the Director and CEO.

Qualifications and Experience Grade 12 School Certificate. Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Highway, Structural, or related engineering discipline from a recognized university.

Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field from a recognized university. Membership of the Engineering Institute of Zambia (EIZ) and Engineers Registration Board (ERB) with a current practicing certificate.

At least 10 years of relevant senior management experience in the road sector. Skills and Attributes Proven leadership and team-building abilities with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Innovative thinker with strong planning skills and a results-driven approach. Effective change agent with the ability to build consensus and lead an efficient directorate.

Passion for the agency’s vision, mission, and values, with a commitment to positively impacting stakeholders. High levels of integrity, professionalism, and trustworthiness.

Creative and open to new ideas, inspiring innovation within the team. Proficient in Information Communication Technology (ICT) and road management systems.

How to Apply for Director Planning and Design Jobs in Lusaka Only Zambian citizens who meet the outlined qualifications and experience are encouraged to apply.

Submit your detailed Curriculum Vitae and application in a sealed envelope clearly stating the position applied for to:

• The Director & Chief Executive Officer Road Development Agency P.O.

Box 50003 Fairley Road, Ridgeway Lusaka, Zambia Alternatively, email applications to:

• Cxxxxxx@roads.gov.zm.
• Applications must be deposited in the sealed box located at the RDA Head Office in Lusaka.
• The closing date for submission is Friday, 13th November 2026 at 17:00hrs.

Please note that any form of lobbying will result in automatic disqualification. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.