Education: Advanced/Bsc University Degree in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, or relevant field

General Information
• Position Title: Lead Architect
• Job Category: Engineer
• Duty Station: Addis Ababa
• Seniority Level: Mid Level
• ICS Level: ICS 10
• Contract Type: ICA – LICA – Specialist – Retainer
• Contract Level: LICA 10
• Posting Start Date: 08 December 2025
• Posting End Date: 22 December 2025
• Duration: One year, renewable based on satisfactory performance and budget availability

Job Highlight
This is an excellent opportunity to lead architectural design and supervision for impactful infrastructure projects, contributing to sustainable development across the Horn of Africa. The position offers exposure to diverse projects, multidisciplinary collaboration, and professional growth within a leading UN organization.

About the Region
The UNOPS Africa Regional Office, based in Nairobi, Kenya, manages over 250 projects in 40 countries, focusing on fragile and conflict-affected settings. With more than 1,000 personnel across five multi-country offices, the office promotes strategic initiatives in Climate Action, Health, Infrastructure, Peace and Security, Middle-Income Country Support, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The office emphasizes excellence, knowledge sharing, and sustainable impact.

About the Country/Multi-Country Office
The Horn of Africa Multi-Country Office (HAMCO) in Addis Ababa delivers project management, procurement, and infrastructure services across Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Sudan, focusing on health, agriculture, and economic development. Since 2024, HAMCO has implemented projects expanding healthcare, education, energy, and livelihoods in underserved and conflict-affected regions. HAMCO also provides human resource management support and contributes to SDG achievement across the Horn of Africa.

Job Specific Context
The Lead Architect reports to the Senior Project Manager and leads the design and supervision of architectural works for buildings and infrastructure projects across the Horn of Africa. The role ensures quality, functionality, and compliance with national and international standards, contributing to successful project delivery and sustainable development outcomes.

Role Purpose
Lead the design, review, and supervision of architectural works for new and rehabilitated buildings and infrastructure projects in line with UNOPS guidelines, national building codes, government standards, and recognized international practices. Ensure quality, functionality, and compliance throughout project implementation.

Functions / Key Results Expected

1. Site Assessment
• Lead assessment and review of site conditions, existing buildings, and infrastructure to identify rehabilitation needs
• Conduct on-site inspections and prepare detailed reports with actionable recommendations
• Participate in feasibility studies and evaluate project requirements according to national and international standards

2. Design Works and Design Review
• Lead preparation and revision of design briefs, drawings, and documentation
• Develop technical specifications, Bills of Quantities (BoQs), and design packages for implementation
• Ensure compliance with Ethiopian Standards (ES/EN), UNOPS guidelines, ISO standards, FIDIC contracts, and other relevant codes
• Prepare 3D models and project presentations
• Coordinate conceptual, preliminary, detailed, and working drawings
• Support procurement through bidding documents, pre-bid meetings, clarifications, and evaluation of technical and financial proposals

3. Construction Supervision and Quality Control
• Review and coordinate construction details and working drawings
• Provide technical advice on project management, construction practices, and environmental safeguards
• Maintain construction records and contribute to “As Built” drawings
• Generate regular progress and project reports

4. Leadership, Coordination, and Stakeholder Engagement
• Lead project design teams for timely, cost-effective, high-quality delivery
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams for integrated infrastructure solutions
• Liaise with UNOPS staff, authorities, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure smooth project implementation

5. Knowledge Management and Capacity Building
• Maintain design and construction documentation, technical specifications, BoQs, and reports
• Participate in knowledge sharing and professional development initiatives
• Contribute to guidelines, manuals, and lessons learned for institutional capacity building
• Mentor and guide junior architects and technical staff

Skills
ArchiCAD, Architectural Design, AutoCAD, Revit, Stakeholder Engagement, Technical Writing

Education Requirements
Required
• Advanced University Degree (Master’s) in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, or relevant field
• Bachelor’s degree may be considered with 2 additional years of experience

Required Certification
• AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, Revit, or other CAD software
• PPAR Practicing Professional License

Desired Certification
• Project Management Certification (e.g., PMP)
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles (LEED certification)

Experience Requirements
Required
• Minimum 5 years in architectural conceptual design, preparation of scheme and final drawings, graphics, presentations, and specifications
• Minimum 5 years using AutoCAD or other CAD software
• Minimum 5 years supervising civil engineering construction activities

Desired
• Experience in proposal development
• Strong communication skills
• Experience interpreting topographic maps

Language Requirements
• English: Fluent (Required)
• Amharic: Fluent (Required)

Additional Information
• UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes
• No payment is required during recruitment
• Applications must be submitted before midnight Copenhagen time on the closing date
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• UNOPS promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Reasonable accommodation is available for shortlisted candidates

Terms and Conditions
• UNOPS may appoint at a lower level than advertised
• Retainer contracts require completion of mandatory courses before providing services
• All personnel must adhere to UN Charter, UNOPS policies, and accountability frameworks
• Recruitment is contingent on successful background checks

Apply link