Senior Infrastructure Engineer – Access Optimization

Senior Infrastructure Engineer – Enhancing Accessibility Operations About Fika Fika, previously known as “Bridges to Prosperity,” champions pioneering, budget-conscious rural infrastructure solutions by leveraging advocacy, research-backed evidence, and specialized support. Our mission is to facilitate secure access for geographically isolated communities through strategic alliances with governments and donors. Grounded in empirical data, our methodology proves that dependable access fosters opportunity and catalyzes economic and social progress in rural regions. Opportunity Overview Fika is looking for a highly skilled and technically proficient Senior Infrastructure Engineer to spearhead the physical infrastructure aspect of an upcoming Improving Access Activity. This initiative is a vital part of a substantial, donor-funded transport infrastructure program in Zambia, designed to tackle both physical and non-physical obstacles to mobility and market access for rural communities situated along a major economic corridor. As the Senior Infrastructure Engineer overseeing the physical infrastructure component, the role is responsible for transforming a prioritized and community-validated pipeline of infrastructure-ready sites into fully designed, procured, constructed, and delivered Rural Networked Transport Infrastructure (ANTI) assets. Additionally, the position focuses on strengthening the design-and-build capabilities of both government and private-sector partners. Reporting to the Improving Access Activity Team Leader, this role remains subject to program funding and client approvals. Responsibilities Design & Technical Leadership Deliver preliminary and comprehensive engineering design solutions for a diverse range of ANTI typologies—including trail and cable bridges, stone arch structures, short-span and low-volume crossings, feeder roads and paths, drainage systems, culverts, and access approaches—consistent with NCC and RDA standards. Provide technical input to assist in prioritizing and costing the works pipeline, delivering expert engineering assessments to guide typology and sequencing choices. Evaluate the technical viability of potential sites and deliver engineering guidance by analyzing survey data, interpreting aerial imagery, and suggesting preliminary design options. Accurately determine required material quantities, develop detailed material specifications, and collaborate with the procurement team to select appropriate local materials. Consistently implement Fika’s standardized design methodologies, templates, and specifications, while authorizing design modifications throughout the construction phase within the designated approval authority. Capacity Development (Design & Build) Through Fika’s accredited curriculum and Training-of-Trainers model, enhance the design and construction capabilities of government engineers and Zambian contractors. Construction Project Delivery, Quality Assurance, and Regulatory Compliance Direct oversight of construction teams—whether comprising on-site personnel or subcontracted firms—is required to deliver ANTI assets of superior quality at designated community locations. Fika will manage the procurement and execution of construction projects utilizing its proprietary private-sector delivery model, while ensuring alignment with the multi-year construction plan and government co-financing agreements. Ensure adherence to rigorous quality assurance standards, conduct site screenings in accordance with FEMA regulations, and uphold robust Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) protocols. Additionally, facilitate the seamless handover of assets to district councils and integrate them into the RDA’s asset management system. Provide assistance to construction crews with temporary works, such as tower lifting operations, cable hoisting procedures, and scaffold design development. Conduct comprehensive technical assessments of structures that are either under construction or have been completed, encompassing design verification and as-built evaluations. Team Leadership & Coordination Oversee engineering and field personnel while collaborating with the Team Leader, Partnerships and Mobilization Lead, Operations Lead, and Fika’s international engineering team. As needed, serve as the technical liaison by presenting and addressing pertinent issues at district, council, and stakeholder meetings. Qualifications and Experience A master’s degree or higher in civil or structural engineering—or an equivalent discipline—is essential. Candidates must hold a current registration as a Professional Engineer with both the Engineering Institution of Zambia (LIZ) and the Engineering Registration Board (ERA). A minimum of seven to ten years of hands-on experience in designing and constructing rural transport systems, roads, bridges, or access infrastructure, with a focus on donor-funded and/or public-sector project delivery, is required. Experienced in designing various bridge and crossing typologies, as well as feeder roads, with proven expertise in construction oversight, quality assurance/quality control, and contract administration based on FDIC standards. Experienced in enhancing the capabilities of government engineers and private-sector contractors. Proficiency in Zambian regulatory frameworks, including the National Construction Council (NCC), Road Development Agency (RDA) standards, and environmental and social screening protocols set by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (FEMA), is advantageous. Additionally, expertise in digital design tools or geographic information systems (GIS) is considered a plus. Skilled in utilizing AutoCAD for drafting purposes, as well as proficient in leveraging Microsoft Excel and Word for various tasks. Proficiency in English at a full professional level is mandatory, while knowledge of Zambian languages is advantageous. Demonstrates unwavering dedication to Fika’s mission, core values, and ethical principles, with particular emphasis on child safeguarding, integrity, and inclusion. Process Interested applicants are encouraged to apply, highlighting their qualifications and pertinent professional background. The selection process involves evaluating resumes and cover letters against specified criteria, followed by shortlisting and interviews, as well as reference checks, culminating in a final decision in accordance with Fika’s recruitment guidelines. This role is contingent upon donor approval and the successful allocation of program funding. Work Conditions Location: Lusaka, Zambia serves as the primary duty station for this position, with frequent travel required to program areas situated along the designated activity corridor. This role necessitates full-time, on-site presence and does not accommodate remote or hybrid work arrangements. Position Type: Project-based, full-time positions contingent upon the availability of donor funding. Duration: The position is offered on a fixed-term basis, aligning with the duration of the program award period. Language: Proficiency in English at a full professional level is essential; fluency in Zambian local languages is considered an advantageous skill. Nationality / Right to Work: Candidates must possess the legal authorization to work in the country where the position is based, either through citizenship, permanent residency, or a valid work visa. We welcome applications from Zambian nationals and candidates who already possess the legal authorization to work in Zambia. This position is based in Zambia. Contingency Status: Subject to the successful procurement of the program award and receipt of necessary approvals from the donor, this position remains contingent. Sharing is caring! Click on the icons below to share

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