Job Summary

To ensure the quality, safe, and timely implementation of shelter projects in line with ES/NFI Cluster Afghanistan standards, with a particular focus on earthquake response interventions. This includes the design and supervision of transitional shelters (T-shelters), major shelter repairs, retrofitting, and minor repairs for vulnerable households. The Civil Engineer (Shelter) will lead technical assessments, structural design, and construction supervision to ensure that all shelters are earthquake-resilient, environmentally sustainable, and culturally appropriate.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct technical surveys and structural safety assessments of damaged houses to identify the most vulnerable households and determine safe and feasible shelter solutions.

• Design and validate transitional shelters (T-shelters) and repair/retrofit solutions that comply with ES/NFI Cluster technical guidelines, Sphere standards, and disaster-resilient construction practices.

• Prepare technical drawings, BoQs, work specifications, and cost estimates using engineering software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, ETABS/SAP2000, MS Project, and MS Office).

• Supervise shelter construction, repairs, and retrofitting works to ensure adherence to earthquake-resistant construction techniques and project quality standards.

• Provide capacity building and on-site training to masons, carpenters, and beneficiaries on earthquake-resilient construction methods (e.g., safe foundation, bracing, reinforcement, roofing).

• Review and approve construction materials to ensure compliance with ES/NFI environmental guidelines and quality requirements.

• Work in close coordination with ES/NFI Cluster members, local authorities, and community representatives to avoid duplication and ensure harmonized response.

• Ensure proper QA/QC (Quality Assurance and Control) through regular inspections and documentation of construction progress.

• Prepare and submit weekly, monthly, and cluster-required technical reports including site updates, progress monitoring, and challenges.

• Support the development of disaster preparedness and response strategies for shelter interventions in earthquake-prone areas.

• Provide timely updates on the status of shelters and infrastructure works to the Sr. Project Officer and the project manager.

• Performing any other duties as the job requires or assigned by the supervisor.

Job Requirements

PERSON SPECIFICATION

It is essential that the post holder shows a good understanding and sympathy with Islamic values and principles as well as commitment to Islamic Relief Worldwide’s vision, mission and core values.

Knowledge, Skills and Qualifications (Bullet Points)

• BSc in Civil Engineering (Structural Engineering specialization preferred).

• In-depth knowledge of transitional shelter design, retrofitting techniques, and ES/NFI Cluster shelter guidelines.

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, SAP2000/ETABS, MS Project, and MS Office Suite.

• Strong technical knowledge of earthquake-resistant construction standards in Afghanistan (e.g., stone masonry in mud mortar, RCC bands, safe roofing).

• Ability to plan, supervise, and monitor construction sites with field engineers and community mobilizers.

• Understanding of Sphere standards, humanitarian shelter practices, and UNOCHA/AHF-funded project implementation.

• Knowledge of construction safety standards and environmental considerations.

Experience (Bullet Points)

• 2-4 years of relevant experience in civil/shelter engineering with at least 1 year in emergency or earthquake response projects.

• Experience in transitional shelter construction, major/minor repairs, and retrofitting projects.

• Field-level experience in supervising site engineers (formen) and teams and liaising with community representatives and local authorities.

• Previous experience with IRW or other I/NGOs in Afghanistan is desirable.

Key Personal Qualities (Bullet Points)

• Have good communication skills, can effectively communicate with local communities.

• Can work in Stressed environment and can meet deadlines.

• Have time management skills.

Desirable:

• Relevant experience of working with humanitarian/development sector/INGOs

• Working knowledge of the regional languages of Afghanistan.

• Having experience in QC/QA and selecting appropriate construction materials.

• Experience in staff supervision, teaching delivery, mobilization, teamwork, and reporting.

Submission Guideline

Interested and qualified national candidates should submit a cover letter explaining their motivation and an updated CV to the following link:

Shelter Engineer (Roster) | Jobs.af

The closing date for accepting applications is 29 November 2025

Please note that applications received after the closing date will not be considered, and only short-listed candidates will be called for written test.

Islamic Relief Worldwide – Afghanistan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women and persons with disabilities.