Technical Specialist (Infrastructure Programme Management)

Phanda Personnel; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking a highly experienced Technical Specialist to join the Programme Management Unit, focusing on large-scale infrastructure projects. Candidates should have at least 7 years' experience, preferably with bulk water and sanitation projects. The position is full-time for 18 months, primarily on-site with some flexibility for remote work.

Qualifications

• At least 7 years' experience in large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Minimum 3-5 years' experience in bulk water and sanitation projects.
• Demonstrated experience in technical project preparation and due diligence.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise for infrastructure projects.
• Manage the lifecycle of infrastructure projects from origination to completion.
• Engage with stakeholders to secure mandates and unlock opportunities.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Project management expertise

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Degree in Engineering (Built Environment)

Postgraduate degree in Engineering (Built Environment)

Job description

Overview

Technical Specialist (Infrastructure Programme Management) – Phanda Personnel

Location : Johannesburg, South Africa

Contract Duration : 18 months (Full-time assignment)

We are seeking a highly experienced Technical Specialist to join the Programme Management Unit of a leading infrastructure-focused institution.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work on large-scale infrastructure projects spanning sectors such as water, sanitation, transport, energy, human settlements, and more, contributing to sustainable national development.

Responsibilities

Provide technical expertise to ensure robust design, feasibility, and implementation of infrastructure projects.

Develop project concepts, feasibility studies, cost estimates, and investment proposals.

De-risk projects by identifying and addressing technical and commercial risks, ensuring projects are bankable and aligned with sector standards.

Manage the full lifecycle of infrastructure projects and programmes from origination to completion, ensuring delivery within time, scope, and budget.

Lead project / programme planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.

Monitor and report on milestones, deliverables, risks, and dependencies.

Engage with stakeholders across political, commercial, and technical spheres to secure mandates and unlock sector-specific opportunities.

Support investor confidence through strong technical due diligence and risk management.

Monitor infrastructure assets post-financial close to ensure intended social, economic, and financial outcomes are achieved.

Minimum Requirements

Degree in Engineering (Built Environment).

At least 7 years' experience in large-scale infrastructure projects.

Minimum 3-5 years' experience in bulk water and sanitation projects, with knowledge of relevant technical standards and regulatory frameworks.

Demonstrated experience in technical project preparation and due diligence, including feasibility studies, cost estimation, and risk assessment.

Proven ability to evaluate designs, budgets, and implementation plans for viability.

Experience supporting bankability assessments for infrastructure financing.

Strong stakeholder engagement experience from a technical perspective.

Additional Requirements / Advantages

Advantageous Postgraduate degree in Engineering (Built Environment).

Qualification in Project or Programme Management.

More than 10 years' experience in infrastructure projects.

Over 5 years' focused experience in bulk water and sanitation.

Experience as a Lender's Technical Advisor (LTA) or equivalent.

Strong background in technical risk management and negotiation of financing agreements.

Experience in asset monitoring and evaluation post-financial close.

Competencies

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Proven project and programme management expertise.

Ability to deliver results under pressure.

Excellent communication, reporting, and presentation skills.

Strategic and innovative thinking with strong business acumen.

Teamwork and collaboration across multi-disciplinary environments.

Additional Information

This is a full-time contract position (18 months).

The role will require working primarily on-site, with some flexibility for remote work (subject to approval).

Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend an interview to assess technical expertise, experience, and cultural fit.

Desired Skills

Bulk Water & Sanitation, 5 to 10 years desired work experience, degree desired qualification level.

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