Job Description

Applications are invited for the following posts in the Department of Engineering Infrastructure and Estates:
1. Vacant Position: Manager, Projects and Civil Works
Attributes and Responsibilities The required attributes of the Manager, Projects and Civil Works will

Duties and Responsibilities

include, but are not limited to:
 Goal oriented and ability to meet set targets on time.
 Ability to plan, mobilize and deploy labour, materials and plant effectively on a construction site.
 Excellent communication skills
 Team player, able to work under extreme pressure and for long hours.
 Ability to read, interpret and implement architectural and engineering drawings and specifications.
 Proficiency in MS Projects, CAD and MS Office packages.
 Willingness to learn.

Qualifications and Experience

Education, Skills and Experience:
 BSc/BEng/BTech. Degree in Civil, Structural, Construction Engineering or equivalent.
 At least 2 years post qualification experience in construction management or supervision.
 Membership of the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers is required.
 A Masters degree in the relevant field is an added advantage.
 Certification in Project Management is desirable.

How to Apply

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Applicants must submit six (6) copies of applications. Each set of application must be accompanied by an Application letter, Curriculum Vitae, giving full particulars including full names; place, date of birth, copies of I.D, birth certificate and copies of academic (O’ and A’ level) and professional qualifications, all certified. Applicants must give information on experience, date of availability, telephone numbers, names, email addresses and physical addresses of three contactable referees. Applications should be hand delivered to Office No. 113, Administration Building at the University of Zimbabwe or posted to:
DEPUTY REGISTRAR, HUMAN RESOURCES
University of Zimbabwe
P O Box MP167
Mount Pleasant
HARARE
The closing date of receipt of applications is Friday, 1 December 2023.
The University of Zimbabwe is an equal opportunity employer and therefore, men and women are equally encouraged to apply.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

VacancyHQ Expert Job Listing Tips

Tips for Successful Applications

Tailor your CV: What I've noticed over time is that many qualified candidates lose out on job opportunities in Zimbabwe simply because their CV lacks specificity. Highlight experiences that show your expertise in overseeing construction projects, deploying labor, plant, and material effectively.
Highlight Transferable Skills: Even if you have minimal experience in construction management, emphasize on transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, working under pressure, and time management illustrated in earlier experiences.
Professional Qualifications: In line with this job listing, highlight any BEng, BTech, or BSc degree related to Civil, Structural, or Construction Engineering. Include your experience, highlighting any post qualification exposure to construction management or supervision.
Certifications: Project Management certification isn't mandatory, but it's desirable. Having one can give you an edge. Also, emphasizing on your membership with the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers could boost your application
Software Proficiency: Proficiency in MS Project, CAD, and MS Office packages should be clearly noted in the skills section of your CV.

Important Areas to Note in the Job Listing

Closing Date: Applications close by Friday, 1 December 2023. Try to submit well ahead of this deadline.
Application Procedure: The job requires you to hand deliver 6 copies of your application, or mail it. All supplied documents must be certified.
References: The listing requires three contactable referees; hence, ensure your references are reliable and their contact information is up to date.
Added Advantages: Possessing a Master's degree in the relevant field offers an added advantage; highlight this if you have it.
Equal Opportunity Employer: The University of Zimbabwe encourages applications from both men and women, implying a non-discriminatory hiring process.

Standing Out in a Flooded Candidate Pool

Demonstrate Willingness to Learn: Have a section of your cover letter or CV that clearly indicates your eagerness to learn new things and adapt to new environments.
Follow Instructions: In my experience, adherence to application instructions is a simple yet powerful way to stand out. Respond accurately to all the instructions given in the application procedure.
Robust Cover Letter: A compelling cover letter that addresses the specifics of the job listing can make you stand out. Don't be generic; ensure your cover letter speaks directly to what the job offers in Zimbabwe.

Things Novice Applicants Could Miss

The Importance of Certification: Though being certified in Project Management is not a strict requirement, the job listing notes this as desirable. Many novice applicants might not understand that this implies a clear advantage to certified candidates.
Experience and Membership: The job listing explicitly states a minimum of 2 years experience and a membership with the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers. Some inexperienced applicants might gloss over this, but it's a crucial factor in the selection process.
Equal Opportunity Statement: Many first-time job seekers might not realize that this statement is indicative of the fair recruitment practices of the University of Zimbabwe. With equal employment opportunities in Zimbabwe, your gender does not influence your chances of landing the job.

Let this be your guide in your job search in Zimbabwe. Remember, every detail in a job listing is a key to unlocking your success in landing your desired job. Tailor your application to suit the requirements, and you'll increase your chances significantly.