Construction Manager

Application Deadline:
10 October 2025

Department:
Infrastructure

Employment Type:
Full Time

Location:
Nairobi

Reporting To:
Managing Director

Description
Allied Talent Partners (ATP), a Three Cairns Group initiative, is a mission-driven, not-for-profit talent marketplace focused on solving the human capital bottlenecks slowing down sustainable development efforts in emerging economies, with an initial focus on Africa. ATP connects vetted, experienced, context-relevant professionals to high-impact opportunities in energy access and sustainable development – strengthening local capacity and fuelling economic vitality. We specialize in fixed-term, deliverable-driven engagements – from interim leadership and generalist projects to niche technical expertise – handling project scoping, talent vetting and matching, contracting, payroll, and compliance so that our clients can focus on impact.

Client
High-Level Overview
Client is a regional leader in renewable energy access, with an ambitious goal to deliver 50,000 electricity connections across underserved communities in Kenya by 2027. Through mini-grid electrification and water access solutions, the organisation is expanding clean, reliable energy access in line with national and county-level development objectives.

Project
The client is preparing to construct a 2 MW solar PV project with grid extension in Kakuma, Kenya, beginning in January 2026. To lead this effort, the client seeks a Construction Manager to oversee all site activities, manage EPC contractors, and supervise a 27-person local workforce. The role is focused on execution; ensuring works are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to technical specifications. The Construction Manager will hold contractors accountable against contract terms, coordinate closely with the Project Manager, and enforce rigorous quality and safety standards. Strong performance on site may lead to extension on upcoming projects in the region, including Ethiopia.

Role and Responsibilities

Role:
Construction Manager/Director – Solar PV & Grid
Direct Report:
Managing Director

Candidates Required:
1

Key Deliverables

• Mobilisation & Planning
• Develop detailed construction schedules and site logistics.
• Oversee pre-construction mobilisation, including contractor onboarding and site preparation.
• Coordinate with the Project Manager to align construction milestones with project governance structures.
• Construction Oversight
• Manage all site activities from groundworks through commissioning.
• Supervise subcontractors and the local workforce (4 overseers, 22 linesmen).
• Ensure compliance with EPC contract terms, designs, and technical specifications.
• Monitor progress, identify risks or delays, and implement corrective actions.
• Quality & Safety Management
• Enforce strict quality control across all construction stages.
• Implement and monitor health, safety, environmental, and social safeguards (HSES).
• Promote a strong safety culture, including regular toolbox talks and training.
• Cost Control & Reporting
• Monitor project expenditure against budget.
• Track contractor claims and variations, escalating issues as needed.
• Provide regular progress updates to leadership, highlighting schedule, budget, and safety performance.
• Team Leadership & Capacity Building
• Lead and mentor on-site teams to strengthen technical and managerial capacity.
• Foster collaboration and accountability across all construction staff.
• Leave behind sustainable processes to support ongoing operations.
• Community & Stakeholder Engagement
• Engage with local communities to ensure works are conducted responsibly.
• Address community concerns promptly and effectively.
• Represent the project on-site with professionalism and cultural sensitivity.

Requirements
Experience Required:

• 10+ years of experience delivering MW-scale renewable energy projects in Africa.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing EPC contractors, contract enforcement, and project delivery.
• Strong background in MV/LV distribution systems, substation works, and solar PV construction.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams in remote or challenging environments.
• Familiarity with donor- or investor-funded infrastructure projects

Technical Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field (advanced degree in renewable energy, electrical engineering, or similar preferred).
• Registration with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) and valid EPRA practising license (A1 and/or T3).
• Comprehensive knowledge of solar PV technology, MV/LV electrical systems, and grid integration, with a strong understanding of relevant Kenyan and international codes, grid standards, and renewable energy regulations.
• Proficiency in construction planning and scheduling tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) and familiarity with quality, safety, and environmental management standards.
• Working knowledge of HSES (Health, Safety, Environmental, and Social) safeguards and their application in large-scale renewable energy projects.

Other Skills

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders effectively.
• Skilled in problem-solving and decision-making under pressure in challenging environments.
• Proactive, results-driven, and committed to delivering high-quality outcomes.
• Culturally sensitive, with experience working effectively in local community contexts.
• Project Management qualifications are highly considered.

**Working Arrangement

Location:**
Based on-site in Kakuma, Kenya, for the duration of construction.

Travel:
Frequent within Turkana to project sites; occasional national travel as required for planning and training purposes

Terms Of Agreement
Start Date: January 2026
Contracting Period:
12–18 months