Project Engineer At Government of the Federated States of Micronesia

1. BACKGROUND

The National Government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has partnered with the states and several government departments to implement development activities within the FSM. The current and pipeline portfolio includes projects in the sectors of Energy, Fisheries, Information & Communication Technology (ICT), Public Financial Management strengthening and Maritime and Roads.

The FSM Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program – Economic Resilience (PROPER) Project is an FSM government financed Fisheries project where the primary objective is to strengthen the shared management of selected Pacific Island oceanic and coastal fisheries, and the critical habitats upon which they depend, for economic recovery and resilience. The project consists of three key components, namely Oceanic Fisheries ($7.05 million), Coastal Fisheries ($6.08 million), and Marine Habitats and Waste ($4.42 million). Each component focuses on specific activities and interventions aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced in their respective areas.

To support the implementation of FSMPROPER, a Project Implementation Unit (PIU) consisting of a Project Manager, Project Officer and Project Assistant and additional experts and state coordinators will work in the already established PIU in FSM NORMA. The FSM PROPER PIU is responsible for coordinating the implementation of the Project with the FSM Department of Resources & Development (FSMDRD), FSM NORMA, DoFA and the States. The PIU will also be responsible for preparing and implementing the Project in accordance with guidelines and regulations as well as the annual work plans and budgets which will detail project activities and eligible expenditures.

In order to strengthen project management support to the portfolio of WB-financed projects, a Central Implementation Unit (CIU) has been established under the Investment Finance Unit in the Department of Finance. The objective of the CIU is to provide support to PIUs in the preparation, implementation and reporting of WB- financed projects. The CIU will assist the FSMPROPER PIU in core cross-cutting functions including financial management, environmental and social safeguards, monitoring & evaluation, communications and procurement.

1. SCOPE OF THE CIVIL WORKS TO BE IMPLEMENTED UNDER FSMPROPER

The scope of the civil works to be designed and implemented comprises:

Pohnpei

Brief Description

New fisheries marina

Construction of a new fisheries marina inside an existing basin along the road to the airport, including pontoons, piling and fisheries building and other infrastructure.

NORMA building

Construction of a new office building on 2 floors.

Laboratory

Construction of new food/fish products testing laboratory following a feasibility study

Chuuk

Brief Description

Rehabilitation of Weno marina basin

Rehabilitation of existing basininto a fisheries marina and inter-island transport hub, including piling, dredging, fish market and road access

Kosrae

Brief Description

Refurbishment of 3 fisheries marinas

Replacement of pontoons at existing fisheries marinas

Refurbishment of Fisheries Office

Refurbishment of the existing DREA fisheries office.

NORMA satellite office

Construction of new small officebuilding near the port.

Rehabilitation of part of port concrete dock

Resurface part of concrete dock and/or extendconcrete pad

Table 1 – List of civil works and location

1. CORE DUTIES

The Project Engineer will play a vital role in the infrastructure activities planned under the PROPER Project, providing expertise, coordination and supervision support, monitoring and evaluation support and guidance to the implementing agencies. They will report to the Project Manager (PM) of the PIU and work closely with CIU and DTC&I and will be responsible for the following key tasks:

1. Technical Expertise and Support:

The Project Engineer will provide specialized engineering expertise to ensure the successful implementation of the various infrastructure projects under the FSM PROPER Project illustrated in Table 1 above. Responsibilities include:

• Collaborate with DTC&I and state-level infrastructure departments to conduct feasibility studies, assess engineering requirements, and develop detailed project plans.
  • Support PIU in project management and implementation including in development and monitoring of work plans, budgets, project reports and evaluations with a focus on engineering aspects.
    • Collaborate with CIU and project procurement staff in procurement processes including providing TORs, technical guidance and recommendations for the tendering/awarding, design, supervision, and construction of infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with engineering standards, regulations and best practices.
    • Provide technical reviews of the designs and ensure that the designs meet international design standards.
    • Conduct quality assurance inspections with the Design & Supervision firm to certify that construction material and practices meet specification.
    • Collaborate with National and State infrastructure departments to ensure design and supervision of construction of smaller onshore works including but not limited to laboratory in Pohnpei and Office buildings as well as the refurbishment of the 3 marinas in Kosrae, which involves replacing of the pontoons.

1. Infrastructure Project Monitoring and Oversight:

The Project Engineer will play a critical role in overseeing the implementation of infrastructure projects across multiple FSM states in collaboration with project advisors, staff and contractors. Duties include:

• Monitoring the progress of infrastructure construction, reviewing project timelines, and ensuring that projects are on track for timely completion.
  • Work with CIU M&E advisor and staff in developing and reviewing of the M&E framework including establishment and collection of baseline data against indicators defined in the M&E framework to be able to effectively monitor the project infrastructure activities, and supporting the gathering of M&E data from infrastructure construction.
    • Conducting regular site visits to assess construction quality, safety measures, and adherence to engineering specifications.
    • Assist project staff and CIU with the grievance process to ensure accurate and effective recording and resolution of grievances related to infrastructure activities.

  • Stakeholder Communication and Engagement:

The Project Engineer will actively engage with local stakeholders and government authorities to facilitate effective project communication and collaboration. Responsibilities include:

• Establishing and maintaining communication channels with local governments, communities, and relevant stakeholders to address concerns and ensure project alignment with local needs.
  • Work with CIU and project communication staff to produce relevant communications materials for the project so as to present technical information to non-technical stakeholders in a clear and understandable manner.

1. Local Capacity Building:

The Project Engineer will contribute to building local capacity for managing and maintaining infrastructure projects in the future. This involves:

• Collaborating with FSM firms and contractors to develop their engineering skills and capacity, particularly in long-term maintenance of newly built infrastructure.
  • Providing training and workshops to local engineers and technicians on related construction best practices and engineering standards.

1. Compliance and Quality Assurance:

The Project Engineer will ensure that infrastructure projects meet engineering standards and specifications. Responsibilities include:

• Reviewing engineering designs, plans/drawing, specifications, estimates and technical documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance with national and international standards.
  • Work with safeguards (environment, social, gender, occupational health & safety) advisors and contractors to ensure all infrastructure projects comply with safeguards and regulatory requirements.
    • Conducting quality assurance assessments to identify potential issues and recommend corrective actions..

  • Reporting and Documentation:

The Project Engineer will maintain comprehensive records and reports related to all the infrastructure projects. Responsibilities include:

• Periodic documentation of project progress, site visits, and observations with assistance of project advisors and staff to provide accurate and timely updates to the Project Manager and relevant stakeholders.
  • Preparing technical reports and documentation that outline project status, challenges, and recommendations.

1. QUALIFICATIONS

Required experience and educational background

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in civil engineering, coastal engineering, or a related field.
  • A minimum of ten (10) years of experience in engineering roles related to infrastructure construction and project management.
  • Strong knowledge of engineering principles, standards, and regulations.
  • Experience in overseeing and managing infrastructure projects from concept to completion, preferably including coastal and/or fisheries infrastructure.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to convey technical information to non-technical audiences.
  • Proficiency in English, both written and verbal communication.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience working on marine/coastal engineering projects in Pacific Island contexts.
  • Familiarity with local engineering firms and contractors in the FSM.
  • Knowledge of sustainable construction practices and environmental considerations.
  • Proficiency in relevant engineering software and tools.

1. POSITION DURATION

The position will be for an initial one (1) year period. This is a full-time position and may be extended based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. The position supports the FSMPROPER Project in the preparatory and implementation phases of the project.

1. LOCATION

The position will be located within the FSM NORMA but services the PROPER Steering Committee comprised mainly of the Project Implementing Agencies which are the FSM DoFA for the Preparatory Phase, and FSM DRD and FSM NORMA for the preparatory and full project implementation phases.