Foreign Service Construction Engineer

Specialized Experience Specialized experience demonstrates that the candidate has acquired, and is able to apply, a combination of specific knowledge, skills, and abilities appropriate to a Foreign Service Construction Engineer position. Specialized experience must show that candidates have an in-depth knowledge of their field and can perform engineering or architectural duties related to construction at Department of State projects in varying locations and conditions. Candidates must demonstrate that their job-related experience has been at progressively increasing levels of performance and responsibility through such indicators as promotions, raises, increases in duties and responsibilities, and organizational and employee impact. At the time of application, candidates must possess at least three years of specialized experience in the last 10 years, working in the field on major vertical construction projects, to be considered for this position. Examples of specialized experience include, but are not limited to: Reviewing, interpreting, and verifying construction drawings, architectural plans, engineering documents, and specifications to ensure compliance; identifying errors, ambiguities, or omissions; and providing corrective recommendations. Inspecting construction techniques, procedures, standards, and materials to confirm construction is performed in accordance with approved plans and specifications. Implementing quality control and quality assurance practices and procedures for construction projects, including applying test procedures and using relevant equipment. Applying safety practices and procedures to construction projects. Developing and applying construction scheduling techniques; monitoring project progress; identifying causes for delays; and implementing corrective actions. Managing financial elements of construction projects, such as monitoring project costs, reviewing and certifying contractor progress payment requests, forecasting total construction expenses, and managing project budgets. Analyzing and negotiating contract change orders, addressing potential or actual claims, and reaching acceptable cost and time settlements. Utilizing computer software for construction project management and fiscal control. Anticipating potential problems, developing actionable options, and recommending effective solutions. Preparing and delivering presentations and reports on project status, findings, and recommendations. Communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing, with technical and non-technical personnel. Demonstrating leadership, team building, and consensus-building skills with colleagues, supervisors, and subordinates. Specialized experience must have been obtained through assignments to field sites on vertical construction projects. Vertical construction projects include, but are not limited to: Multi-story buildings. Large-scale residential and commercial developments. Warehouses. Substituting Education for Specialized Experience Candidates who have a Master of Architecture or Master of Engineering degree in one of the disciplines listed under Education Requirements, from a program meeting the accreditation requirements, in addition to possessing a qualifying Bachelor of Science degree in the majors listed under Education Requirements, qualify to substitute the Master's degree for one year of Specialized Experience toward satisfying the minimum requirement. Transcripts for both the Bachelor's and Master's degrees must be submitted with the application. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities The Department conducted extensive job analysis research to determine Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) and other attributes conducive to successful performance in this position. The Department will consider a candidate's education level, work experience, and other qualifications as part of the hiring decision-making process based on these KSA criteria. Knowledge Knowledge of engineering principles and practices. Knowledge of building and construction. Knowledge of vertical construction. Knowledge of design. Knowledge of architectural and engineering drawings. Knowledge of emerging technologies and industry trends. Knowledge of construction tools and equipment. Knowledge of construction costs. Knowledge of construction safety practices and procedures. Knowledge of project management principles. Knowledge of scheduling. Knowledge of risk management. Knowledge of statements of work. Knowledge of commissioning. Knowledge of administration and management. Knowledge of budget management. Knowledge of computers. Knowledge of mathematics. Skills Skill in writing statements of work. Skill in producing and reading architectural and engineering drawings. Skill in administering contracts. Skill in establishing procedures. Skill in project management. Skill in time management. Skill in resource management. Skill in risk analysis. Skill in leadership and staff supervision. Skill in motivating employees and others. Skill in managing laterally and upward. Skill in personnel evaluating and interviewing. Skill in interpersonal relationships. Skill in building relationships. Skill in providing customer service. Skill in working with others with different backgrounds. Skill in leading a multinational workgroup. Skill in running meetings. Skill in teamwork. Skill in coordination with external stakeholders. Skill in critical thinking. Skill in creative problem solving. Skill in decision making. Skill in written communication. Skill in reporting. Skill in oral communication. Skill in active listening. Skill in negotiation. Skill in computer technology. Skill in knowledge management. Skill in data analysis. Skill in research. Skill in adaptability and resilience. Skill in self-development. Other Requirements Cross-cultural interest. Tolerance for working overseas. Tolerance of varying work environments. Acceptance of assignments based on the needs of the Foreign Service. Tolerance of living away from family. Continuous learning. Attention to detail. Dependability. Integrity. Willingness to perform other duties. Essential Physical Requirements Some of the essential functions of the job have a physically demanding component. In the execution of the duties and tasks listed above, Construction Engineers must have the ability to: Work in confined areas such as crawl spaces, attics, utility pits, tunnels, utility access holes, and other confined spaces. Work from heights such as rooftops, ledges, and scaffolding, including climbing extension ladders and scaffolding. Move and handle heavy objects (up to 50 pounds) such as equipment, tools, and other building materials. See objects that are near, far, in color, or at night, possibly including depth perception. Hear speech or other sounds, possibly including sufficient sensitivity to hear sounds of low volume or in noisy environments. Manage periodic work that requires regular and recurring periods of prolonged standing, bending, and stretching.