URGENT RECRUITMENT - PLEASE APPLY ASAP
We are looking for a senior Civil/Structural Engineer with a MA or Ph.D. degree that has proven experience in post-earthquake response, the design of earthquake-resistant structures, and/or has specific qualifications or credentials on this subject (retrofitting, earthquake designs, etc.). Strong English skills are mandatory.
Under direct supervision from the Engineering Gate Executive Director, the consultant will collaboratively do the following SoW fully or partially, independently or with cooperation with other colleagues from the Engineering Gate team.
1. Background
On the 6th of February 2023, a 7.8 Magnitude earthquake struck the southern central region of Turkey and Northern Syria. This first earthquake was followed in the coming hours and days by a series of other earthquakes creating devastating consequences for the populations, damaging homes and critical infrastructure like health facilities, schools, etc.
2. Objectives and Main Activities of the Consultancy:
(1) Conducting Technical Assessments on Damaged Structures
The consultant will first have to work with the field team to shortlist 5 to 10 critical facilities.
The selection of the facilities to be assessed will be based on the level of damage, the technical feasibility of rehabilitation, budget, type of structure, access to the site, etc., and it will be considered as case studies that can both inform the team strategic discussions and planning, as well as serve as a reference for future assessment conducted by the field team after the consultancy is finished.
These assessments, which will be remotely guided by the consultant in collaboration with the field engineers, should include prominently but not exclusively:
- An initial visual inspection of each building to determine the general condition and classification of damage and mode of failure of the structural elements. This classification should be informed by both international and local standards and guidelines (e.g., the Syrian code of construction, etc.).
- If the structure is classified as not being structurally sound the team will coordinate and hand it over to local authorities who will determine further steps (demolition, etc.).
- If the structure is considered as having potential for repairs further technical inspections will be carried out including (not exclusively):
- An analysis and examination of structural elements such as foundations, columns, load-bearing walls, slabs, and all types of elements that may compromise the stability and safety of the building.
- An analysis and examination of non-load bearing elements to determine the level of existing damage and the possibility of progressive deterioration to which they may be exposed.
- Technical recommendations on how to proceed with the rehabilitation of the buildings in order to restore and/or upgrade their structure to safe parameters based on earthquake-resistant international standards and guidelines, etc. These recommendations will be limited to structural works only and should include a clear outline of the implementation process, technical specifications on key materials, equipment, and standards to take into consideration, etc.
(2) Capacity Building
The consultant will have to deliver training modules to a group of 4 to 6 engineers in order to capacitate them prominently but not exclusively on:
- Rapidly assess earthquake damage buildings
- Thorough technical analysis and examination of earthquake-damaged structures (including key and/or alternative equipment, key guidelines and standards, etc.)
- Best retrofitting practices, methodologies, equipment, and materials for earthquake-damaged structures
- “Build Back Better” approach and recommendations (including international guidelines on the subject, etc.)
(3) Institutional Knowledge Building
It is expected that in the process of conducting these assessments and capacity building, the outcomes can eventually be translated into a general guidance and/or resources database that can inform us of future responses of similar characteristics.
3. Qualifications and Areas of Expertise
- Master’s degree and at least 10 years of experience or an equivalent combination of education and years of experience
- Civil or structural engineer specializing in structures and an advanced understanding of seismic design codes.
- Experience in the design of earthquake-resistant structures, working in post-earthquake responses, and/or having specific qualifications or credentials on this subject (retrofitting, earthquake designs, etc.).
- Experience in countries affected by earthquakes.
- Project management and construction administration skills to solve complex problems.
- Excellent writing and oral presentation skills
- Relevant engineering experience in building design, implementation, and rehabilitation, including 3 years in international contracting.
- Experience in the construction and rehabilitation of public infrastructure, and/or in the macro-supervision of public infrastructure projects.
- Experience in developing countries, characterized by significant structural and institutional constraints.
- Experience consulting with peers, especially non-infrastructure specialists.
- Languages: Excellent knowledge of English, oral and written.
Note: the work needs a commitment for 3-4 months, some days full-time, others may have no work, the work plan will be agreed upon later
Working time zone (GMT +3)
How to apply
To apply please use the following link, please apply as soon as possible because we will check the applications on rolling bases:
https://forms.gle/dgNJq8nsCiAGu3cJ6
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