Engineer – Planning and Development Authority
Job Description
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Position Title: Engineer
Reports To: Chief Executive Officer
Location: Planning and Development Authority, Grenada
1. Introduction:
This Terms of Reference (TOR) outlines the responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations for an Engineer working within the Planning and Development Authority (PDA). The Engineer’s role is focused on the regulation, monitoring, and approval of construction projects within the jurisdiction of the Planning and Development Authority, ensuring compliance with safety, building codes, and development regulations.
2. Purpose of the Position:
The Engineer is responsible for reviewing and approving the design and construction of various types of buildings and structures. This includes evaluating building plans, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and monitoring ongoing construction to confirm adherence to approved designs and applicable laws, as well as the review of infrastructure designs proposed on subdivision plans.
3. Reporting:
The Engineer will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Planning and Development Authority (PDA). The CEO oversees the overall performance, ensuring that the Engineer’s work aligns with the regulatory framework, strategic goals, and policies of the Planning and Development Authority.
4. Responsibilities and Duties:
4.1 Regulatory Oversight & Approval of Building Plans:
- Review submitted building designs and plans for compliance with local building codes, zoning regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
- Ensure that all new construction projects, modifications, and renovations meet legal and safety standards before approving permits or issuing construction licenses.
- Conduct detailed assessments of construction proposals, including structural integrity, compliance with fire safety regulations, and environmental impact.
- Issue reports and technical recommendations on the approval or rejection of building plans.
- Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to clarify and resolve any discrepancies or issues in the submitted plans.
4.2 Monitoring Construction Progress:
- Conduct periodic site inspections during construction to ensure that the work adheres to the approved plans and relevant codes.
- Monitor ongoing construction projects to verify that structural safety, quality control, and compliance with regulations are maintained.
- Identify non-compliance with approved plans or building codes and recommend corrective actions as necessary.
- Prepare and submit inspection reports, documenting findings and recommendations to the senior management team and relevant stakeholders.
4.3 Review of Compliance with Regulatory Standards:
- Ensure that all construction projects comply with national and international standards (such as ISO or WFEO guidelines) for safety, environmental sustainability, and quality.
- Review and assess any changes or modifications made during construction to determine if they still align with the original approval or require further review and approval.
- Review construction documents related to fire safety, accessibility, and other specialized regulations (e.g., earthquake resistance, sustainability standards).
4.4 Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination:
- Work closely with other departments within the Planning and Development Authority, local authorities, developers, and contractors to ensure that projects meet legal and regulatory requirements.
- Facilitate clear communication with external stakeholders to explain the approval processes, code requirements, and any necessary modifications for compliance.
- Provide technical support and guidance to developers, contractors, and architects, ensuring that they understand the regulatory standards and requirements during the planning and construction phases.
4.5 Reporting & Documentation:
- Maintain thorough and organized records of all inspections, approvals, rejections, and modifications to ensure that documentation is accessible for future audits or legal review.
- Prepare and present technical reports, assessments, and recommendations on building projects to the CEO, management, and other regulatory bodies.
- Monitor project timelines to ensure that construction projects progress without delay due to regulatory hurdles or permit issues.
4.6 Continuous Improvement and Professional Development:
- Stay informed about changes in building codes, safety regulations, and industry best practices to ensure the PDA’s practices are aligned with current standards.
- Identify opportunities for improving internal processes related to building plan reviews, inspections, and approvals.
- Attend relevant training sessions, seminars, and conferences related to urban planning, construction regulations, and engineering standards.
5. Qualifications, Skills, Attributes, Competencies and Knowledge:
5.1 Educational Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, or Civil with Environmental Engineering or other relevant discipline from an accredited institution.
- A Master’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering is desirable
- Membership in a recognized engineering body is desirable.
5.2 Work Experience:
- A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a similar position, with a focus on building construction regulations, design reviews, and construction site inspections.
- Experience in reviewing building plans and ensuring compliance with local zoning laws, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
- Familiarity with international building codes (e.g., International Building Code IBC, OECS Building Codes, American Concrete Institute Codes, American Society of Civil Engineers, British Standards, etc.) and local building code and construction regulations.
- Experience working in regulatory or government roles, particularly within urban planning and construction permit approval processes.
- Practical experience on active construction sites is also desirable.
5.3 Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in design and structural engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, Structural Analysis software) and regulatory compliance tools.
- Strong understanding of national building codes, safety regulations, zoning laws, and environmental regulations.
- Familiarity with project management tools and construction documentation systems.
- Excellent technical writing and report preparation skills.
- Fluency in oral and written English is required.
5.4 Soft Skills:
- Strong communication skills to interact with developers, contractors, architects, and other stakeholders.
- High attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in the review of plans, inspections, and compliance assessments.
- Problem-solving abilities to address discrepancies or non-compliance issues effectively.
- Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Strong leadership and decision-making skills with a proven track record of managing teams and projects effectively.
- Excellent understanding of the Act as well as sustainable development principles and environmental regulations.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, developers, and the public.
- Ability to analyze complex issues and make strategic recommendations to achieve the Authority’s goals.
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability in carrying out responsibilities.
- Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, particularly with senior leadership and Boards.
- Skillful and experienced in strategic planning, resource allocation, and project management.
- Analytical skills with the ability to foresee issues, develop constructive solutions, and provide decisive recommendations.
- Ability to work independently and react quickly in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
- Capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, balancing priorities and deadlines.
- Full working knowledge of the Authority’s Management System.
- Excellent knowledge of business and financial management.
- Excellent public speaking and presentation skills.
- Excellent knowledge of leading change in a dynamic environment.
5.5 Key Competencies and Attributes:
- Attention to Detail: Ability to meticulously evaluate building plans and monitor construction activities to ensure strict compliance with approved designs and regulations.
- Regulatory Expertise: Deep understanding of construction regulations, codes, and standards to make informed, authoritative decisions in building approvals.
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Strong skills in identifying issues and making timely, effective decisions to ensure projects comply with regulatory requirements.
- Collaboration and Communication: Ability to effectively communicate with various stakeholders, including developers, contractors, and regulatory bodies, ensuring smooth project approval and monitoring processes.
- Professional Integrity: Demonstrates a high level of professionalism, accountability, and ethics when dealing with sensitive regulatory and safety issues.
6. Performance Evaluation/Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
The engineer’s performance will be evaluated on an annual basis, based on:
- Accuracy and thoroughness of building plan reviews and inspections.
- Compliance with deadlines for approvals and inspections.
- Effectiveness in monitoring construction progress and ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Professionalism in communication and stakeholder interactions.
- Contributions to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of regulatory processes.
7. Working Conditions:
- The engineer will be based at the PDA headquarters, with frequent site visits to construction projects for inspections and monitoring.
- Working hours will generally align with the PDA’s official office hours, with flexibility depending on project requirements and deadlines.
- Travel to external sites and construction projects may be required.
8. Duration of Employment:
This position is a full-time role with a standard contract duration of 2 years. The contract may be renewed based on performance and the operational requirements of the Planning and Development Authority.
The position may require occasional evening or weekend work to meet deadlines or engage with stakeholders.
This TOR document serves as a guide to the duties, responsibilities, and expectations for the Engineer. It is intended to ensure that the Engineer’s role is aligned with the Act, strategic goals of the Authority, and compliant development. This TOR is intended to outline key responsibilities and expectations, but is by no means exhaustive of all duties that may be required in the role.
Application Process: The authority will be accepting applications on a rolling basis. Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted as they are received, and candidates may be contacted for interviews before the final closing date. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. Send applications via email to applications@jobsingrenada.gd
Only electronic applications with a signature will be considered.
Deadline: May 12th, 2025
This is a fixed-term contract for a period of 2 years.
Compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Only qualified applicants will be contacted.
