Reporting Lines
The National Site Engineer will work under the overall supervision of the FAO Country Representative and the direct technical supervision of the Project Manager, and in close coordination with the Lead Technical Officer (LTO) and the FAO project team in Ghana.
Technical Focus
The National Site Engineer will provide technical supervision and quality assurance for the implementation of solar-powered irrigation and water infrastructure systems under the project. The incumbent will support the supervision of borehole drilling, aquifer testing, irrigation infrastructure installation, civil works, water storage and distribution systems, and ensure that all construction and installation activities comply with approved technical specifications, safety standards, environmental safeguards, and project timelines.
Tasks and responsibilities
• Supervise sites and work, check layout, line, and levels against construction drawings, Borehole drilling, construction, aquifer testing and solar-powered pumping system installation, water storage and distribution infrastructure, civil works, drip irrigation:
• Ensure all construction conforms to specifications, codes of practice, and quality standards, including material testing (e.g., concrete tests).
• Monitor the contractor’s work program, identify delays, and ensure compliance with the schedule.
• Prepare daily, weekly, or monthly progress reports on activities, resources, and site conditions.
• Enforce site safety regulations, health conditions, and environmental safeguards.
• Interpret technical drawings, resolve technical challenges on-site, and liaise with the contractor’s team.
• Assist in measuring of completed works to support the contract manager.
• Ensure full compliance with Ghana national safety standards and project timelines.
• Prepare quarterly progress reports and a comprehensive end-of-assignment report.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• Advanced University degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Irrigation/Civil /Geology, Agricultural/ Water resource/Mechanical/Electrical/Civil Engineering or related field
• Registered engineer with a recognized professional body, with at least five years of relevant field experience in solar irrigation management, water systems installation, borehole drilling, irrigation infrastructure, or related civil/water infrastructure works. At least two years of the above experience must be in site supervision of similar infrastructure projects, including supervision of contractors, quality control, review of technical specifications/drawings, and monitoring of works against approved timelines.
• Working knowledge of English (Level C)
• National of Ghana
FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word), and project management software (e.g., MS Project).
• Construction supervision and site management
• Proven experience in contract management for civil works, particularly in irrigation system installation and related infrastructure.
• Interpretation of construction drawings, specifications, and BOQs
• Borehole drilling supervision and groundwater/aquifer testing knowledge
• Irrigation systems installation (especially drip irrigation systems)
• Material testing and quality control (e.g., concrete slump tests, compaction tests)
• Knowledge of construction methods, codes, and standards
• Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) compliance in construction sites
• Project scheduling and basic construction planning tools (e.g., MS Project, Excel)
• Attention to detail and accuracy in measurements and reporting
• Implementation of relevant codes and standards
Selection Criteria
• Prior experience working with FAO or any UN agency
• Prior experience working with the government and other relevant institutions in Ghana
• Experience in projects related to solar Irrigation or water systems installation would be an advantage.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing)
Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted
Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at
For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website: style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"> Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.
FAO seeks gender, geographical and linguistic diversity in its staff and international consultants in order to best serve FAO Members in all regions.
