Resident Engineer

Location: Zululand North and South Regions | Water Department
Reports to: Project Manager

Job Summary

The Resident Engineer will oversee the on-site execution of Operation and Maintenance (O&M) for water infrastructure, such as water treatment plants, pump stations, pipelines, reservoirs, and general civil refurbishment works. This role involves ensuring the successful implementation and management of O&M contract ensuring, compliance with standards, and timely delivery of milestones within budget. The Resident Engineer will serve as the primary technical representative on-site, liaising with contractors, stakeholders, and the Client.

Key Responsibilities

 1.  Site Supervision and Management

•  Oversee daily site activities related to O&M of water infrastructure facilities, ensuring alignment with project designs, specifications, and quality standards.
• Coordinate and manage contractors, subcontractors, and site personnel to address technical and construction-related challenges.
• Conduct regular inspections to assess progress and compliance.
• Ensure compliance with South African National Standards (SANS1200) and other technical and project specifications
• Maintain accurate documentation and report on project milestones, costs and progress reporting
• Facilitate progress/technical meetings, attendance and preparation of meeting minutes

2.  Quality Assurance and Compliance

•  Ensure compliance with South African water sector standards, regulations, and environmental guidelines.
• Perform quality checks on materials, construction practices, and workmanship on replacement of O&M components.
• Identify and address deviations from design specifications and implement corrective measures.

3.  Technical Coordination

•  Assist in the preparation of quality control plans and documentation
• Collaborate with project manager and design teams to address modifications and sitespecific challenges.
• Maintain comprehensive records of site activities, including site diaries, progress reports, photographic documentation, correspondences and site instructions.
• Compile contractual correspondences based on the terms of the contract.

4.  Cost and Programme Management

• Monitor and report on project progress, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
• Verify contractor progress claims and assist in preparing payment certifications.
• Support project management in preparing cost estimates and variation orders..

5.  Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE)

• Promote a safe working environment by ensuring adherence to site safety protocols and environmental best practices.
• Ensure compliance with appropriate health and safety regulations.

6.  Client and Stakeholder Engagement

• Perform as the on-site point of contact for client representatives and regulatory authorities including the community/local authorities.
• Participate in client meetings, providing updates on the progress of the projects.
• Address client concerns regarding technical, quality and timelines
• Engage with Client operation and maintenance team to get detailed feedback on challenges that require attention.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree/BTech in Civil or Environmental Engineering (or a related field).
• 5+ years of experience in water infrastructure construction supervision or project management including installation, testing and commissioning of water infrastructure projects that entail electromechanical equipment will be highly preferred.
• Proven expertise in water treatment plants, pipeline installations, and water distribution systems.
• Familiarity with South African legislation and standards in relation to construction environment
• Knowledge and application of Conditions of Contract specifically GCC 2015, third edition
• Proficiency in relevant software (e.g., AutoCAD, MS Project, MS Suite).

Skills and Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills specific to technical knowledge for water infrastructure O&M .
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities for stakeholder management.
• High attention to detail and quality control.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Leadership skills to effectively oversee and motivate site teams.

Employment Type

• Full-time, fixed-term contract based on project timelines.
• Flexibility to work on remote project sites across Zululand District Municipality.