Project Engineer – Water Infrastructure (LIFT Project)

About the role

The Project Engineer will support the LIFT (Leveraging Investments for Transformational Water and Sanitation Systems) project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, improving delivery of cost‑recoverable water supply services. Based in Mercy Corps’ office in Goma or Bukavu, the role involves planning, designing and supervising water infrastructure upgrades over a four‑year fixed‑term.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive water system assessments, including infrastructure, operations, maintenance and energy efficiency.
• Develop infrastructure improvement plans and detailed feasibility studies with conceptual designs and cost‑benefit analyses.
• Prepare environmental impact assessments, operation and maintenance manuals, and realistic cost estimates.
• Support preparation of tender documents, technical specifications, bills of quantities and final tender packages.
• Analyze cost‑recovery metrics, non‑revenue water and other key performance indicators.
• Supervise construction activities, review engineering designs, drawings and technical reports, and ensure compliance with civil/sanitary engineering best practices.
• Serve as primary liaison between LIFT and external engineering and construction firms, reviewing work programs, payment claims and variation orders.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in civil, mechanical or related engineering; Master’s degree preferred.
• 5–10 years of experience in planning, design and construction management of potable water supply systems.
• Proven experience in feasibility studies, cost estimating, scheduling and construction supervision.
• Strong analytical and technical report writing abilities.
• Fluency in written and spoken French and/or Swahili; English proficiency preferred.
• Experience working on donor‑funded projects in Eastern Africa, especially the DRC.

Required skills

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Computer‑Aided Design (CAD)