Project manager / team leader, PNG key roads for growth maintenance project (KRGMP)

KBR is currently implementing the PNG Key Roads for Growth Maintenance Project (KRGMP) on behalf of AusAID. The project commenced in February 2005 and has two more years to run. Its purpose is to maintain an extensive portion of the Highlands Highway between Lae and Goroka, a region broadly threatened by landslides. We are currently seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified engineers to fill the position of Project Manager. The Project Manager will be located in Lae and required to also on occasion undertake work in the Project Office in Goroka and on the Highlands Highway.

Key responsibilities and duties include:

• Managing, leading and directing the project in-country to achieve the goal, purpose and outputs within the agreed budget and of the required quality
• Managing stakeholder relationships including with AusAID PNG, the GoPNG Department of Works (DoW), Central Supply and Tenders Board (CSTB), National Executive Committee (NEC) and Road Maintenance Contractors
• Fully undertaking and exercising supervisory responsibilities and authorities delegated to the superintending DoW Engineer for the Road Maintenance Contract to ensure delivery of effective and economic road maintenance
• Financial Management and administration of the project including the operation of the imprest account, certification and approval of road maintenance contractor claims, review and approval of DoW claims for expenses, and maintenance of financial records and accounts
• Performance management and direction of all project staff and short-term advisors in PNG
• Maintaining project offices, services, facilities and equipment

The successful candidate will work be expected to lead and oversee a team of international and domestic consultants, contribute technical expertise and knowledge toward achieving the project aims, and ensure that client expectations are realised in a timely, efficient and effective manner.

Skills and knowledge required:

Candidates should be able to demonstrate:
• experience working in PNG preferably in a Team Leader capacity on roads maintenance projects or extensive equivalent experience in similar developing countries
• participation in or considerable exposure to AusAID funded projects
• experience in managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders
• a proven ability to develop and implement project documentation such as contract and RFT documentation; specification and cost plans; annual plans; safety rules; operation and maintenance instructions; and procedure manuals in addition to regular reports and correspondence
• appropriate and relevant internationally recognised qualifications in civil engineering with extensive experience in road maintenance or similar projects
• a proven ability to mentor and train staff
• a strong understanding of cross-cutting issues such as gender and development, HIV/AIDS and the environment.

Pidgin language skills and experience working with counterparts at the national and provincial level would be a distinct advantage