About the Role
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is seeking a Chief Engineer Grade A (Contract Admin) to be based at their Head Office. In this pivotal role, you will provide strategic technical leadership and specialist engineering expertise in the preparation of tender and contract documentation, construction supervision, and contract administration of vital infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. This position is crucial for ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, thereby contributing to the development and improvement of public infrastructure in South Africa.
As a Chief Engineer, you will play an essential role in not only overseeing construction projects but also ensuring that they meet the needs of the community. Your leadership will guide multidisciplinary teams and help shape the built environment in a way that enhances the quality of life for residents. Based in Pretoria, this role allows you to be at the forefront of public service, making a tangible difference in the lives of South Africans every day.
About the Department
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is dedicated to ensuring the efficient management and development of government-owned infrastructure. Its mission is to provide sustainable public infrastructure that meets the needs of the community while promoting economic growth and job creation. Working within this department means being part of a team committed to excellence in service delivery and making a significant impact on the nation’s development.
What You’ll Do
- Lead the preparation of tender and contract documentation for infrastructure projects.
- Supervise construction activities to ensure compliance with project specifications and quality standards.
- Administer contracts, evaluating variations, payment certificates, and extensions of time.
- Manage multidisciplinary teams, fostering collaboration and efficiency throughout project execution.
- Ensure that all projects adhere to public-sector financial management and safety regulations.
- Provide technical guidance and support to project consultants and contractors.
- Contribute to the development of labour-intensive construction practices and the Expanded Public Works Programme.
What You’ll Need
- A Grade 12 certificate and a recognized Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Civil Engineering.
- Compulsory registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng).
- A minimum of ten years of relevant post-qualification experience in roads, bridges, and building construction.
- At least six years of experience post-professional registration in leadership roles.
- Proven experience in construction supervision and contract administration.
- Strong expertise in construction procurement, tender documentation, and quality assurance.
- A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to remote project sites.
- Experience in labour-intensive construction methods is an added advantage.
How to Apply
Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.
Requirements
Grade 12 plus a recognised Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) / Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Civil Engineering.Compulsory registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Professional Engineer (Pr.
Eng).
A minimum of ten (10) years’ relevant post qualification experience in roads, bridges and building construction, including at least six (06) years’ post-professional registration experience.
Extensive relevant experience in construction supervision and contract administration of roads, bridges and buildings.
Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and managing complex infrastructure programmes, consultants and contractors.
Proven experience administering construction contracts and evaluating variations, payment certificates, extensions of time and contractual claims.
A valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel to project sites, including remote locations.
Experience in labour-intensive construction, contractor development and Expanded Public Works Programme implementation will be an added advantage.
Knowledge, Skills and Competencies: Strong understanding of design review, constructability, construction methods, materials testing and quality assurance.
Expertise in construction procurement, tender documentation, specifications, bills of quantities and contract administration.
Ability to interpret contractual provisions and assess entitlement, causation and the financial and programme implications of claims.
Knowledge of applicable public-sector financial management, procurement, occupational health and safety, 175 environmental and engineering requirements.
Strong leadership, negotiation, analytical, communication and technical report-writing skills.
Professional judgement, integrity and the ability to make defensible decisions within delegated authority.
Job Duties
To provide strategic technical leadership and specialist engineering expertise in preparation of tender and contract documentation, construction supervision and contract administration of roads, bridges and buildings.Ensure that infrastructure projects are delivered within approved scope, budgets and timeframes, meet prescribed quality standards, and are supported by sound contractual and financial controls.
