Civil Engineer

Over the next two years One Acre Fund is building a world-class facility at the RICA Campus in Bugesera, which will support millions of farmers to be more prosperous via better crop seed systems. The Civil Engineer (Projects Engineer) serves as the technical guardian of the RICA Seed Center’s physical infrastructure, providing the Construction Manager with rigorous oversight of civil engineering design and construction works.

The Civil Engineer oversees earthworks, grading, foundations, structural concrete and steel, roads and pavements, stormwater drainage, utility corridors, retaining structures, and other external site infrastructure. By reviewing drawings, BOQs, and contractor submissions, the Civil Engineer identifies inconsistencies, resolves site constraints, and ensures that materials, construction methods, and completed works meet the structural, safety, and durability standards required for long-term operations of the RICA Seed Center.

Responsibilities

Design oversight and Technical review

• Review and validate civil engineering designs reports, drawings, structural detailing, of roads, drainage and external infrastructure in compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and safety standards.
• Check design calculations, review shop drawings and technical submittals, and ensure accuracy and approval for constructability of the proposed works.
• Develop and initiate civil and structural design solutions, including structural analysis and modelling, to support project requirements and ensure technical feasibility and efficiency.
• Prepare and review detailed civil engineering drawings and detailing, ensuring proper coordination with other engineering disciplines: architectural and MEP designs and readiness for construction implementation.

Construction oversight

• Oversee the execution of civil works including earthworks, foundations, concrete structures, roads, stormwater, utility corridors, retaining structures, and external infrastructure
• Address construction challenges on site and provide engineering guidance to maintain project progress including recommendations for approval or required revisions in line with project specifications and standards
• Conduct site inspections, progress checks, and monitoring contractor performance during construction.
• Ensure all works follow the approved drawings, specifications, BOQs, and relevant regulations.
• Monitor construction methods, material quality, and workmanship to ensure the structures are safe, durable, and built to the required standard.
• Review contractor reports, questions, and claims, and provide technical guidance or design clarifications to resolve issues on site and keep the project moving.

Health and safety management, quality control, and assurance

• Coordinate with the Safety Officer when introducing new activities, equipment, or temporary works.
• Verify that all activities are carried out in accordance with the approved method statements and risk assessments
• Confirm that workers follow safe work procedures before starting activities (excavation, lifting, working at height, etc.)
• Stop any unsafe work and immediately report hazards to the Safety Officer and Project Manager.
• Ensure proper sequencing of works to guarantee the safety and health of workers on site.

Team training and capacity building:

• Provide practical technical guidance and on-site training to contractor technicians to ensure correct implementation of drawings, specifications, and construction standards.
• Share technical lessons learned, construction challenges, and best practices with the team to strengthen internal capacity and improve project delivery.
• Support the development or review of technical documentation including scopes of work, terms of reference, and engineering studies when required.

Career Growth and Development

We have a strong culture of constant learning and we invest in developing our people. You’ll have weekly check-ins with your manager, access to mentorship and training programs, and regular feedback on your performance. We hold career reviews every six months, and set aside time to discuss your aspirations and career goals. You’ll have the opportunity to shape a growing organization and build a rewarding long-term career.

Qualifications

Across all roles, these are the general qualifications we look for. For this role specifically, you will have:

• An understanding of construction principles, building codes, and regulations.
• Hands-on experience supervising construction activities ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and resolving technical issues on-site.
• Knowledge of Health and Safety: understanding occupational health and safety regulations and their enforcement.
• Advanced in Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs used in Civil Engineering ( Autocad, Civil 3D,
• Advanced proficiency in structural design, detailing, and modeling software(ETABS,ProtaStructure, CYPE)
• Fluency in spoken and written Kinyarwanda and English. Knowledge of French is an added advantage.