The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is actively recruiting a Senior Architect for a retainer position to support Montenegro's judicial system modernization as part of the country's European Union integration efforts. The position, designated under vacancy code VA/2025/B5110/30782, offers up to 100 working days within a 12-month period and can be performed entirely from home.
This high-level engineering position, classified as ICS-11/IICA-3, is part of the EU-funded initiative titled "Enhancing Capacities and Preparedness of Montenegro's Judiciary for EU Integration." The project receives support through the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance 2022 (IPA) and aims to strengthen Montenegro's rule of law by improving the independence, efficiency, and accountability of its judicial system.
The European Union has committed €2 million to this comprehensive project, which encompasses four key components. These include the optimization of judicial processes, implementation of customized training programs, thorough assessments of information and communication technology (ICT) and infrastructure systems, and the development of technical documentation for constructing a new judicial complex in Podgorica, Montenegro's capital.
The construction of the judicial complex represents a critical milestone in ensuring that Montenegro's judicial institutions possess the necessary infrastructure to operate efficiently, transparently, and in alignment with European Union standards. The Ministry of Justice, working alongside other rule of law institutions, serves as the primary national partner and beneficiary of this transformative initiative.
The selected Senior Architect will work under the direct supervision of the Head of Programme and receive guidance from the Project Manager. Key responsibilities include leading the preparation of comprehensive technical architectural documentation for the judicial complex in Podgorica, conducting detailed assessments of infrastructure requirements, and ensuring strict compliance with both EU and UNOPS construction standards.
Additional duties encompass providing expert guidance on design, functionality, and sustainability aspects of infrastructure solutions, collaborating closely with engineers, ICT specialists, and institutional partners to ensure seamless project delivery, and supporting the project team in addressing complex technical challenges while proposing innovative and practical solutions. The role also involves contributing to capacity-building initiatives by sharing specialized expertise with local stakeholders and partners throughout Montenegro.
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree at the Master's level or higher in Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field. However, applicants with a bachelor's degree combined with substantial qualifying experience may be considered. The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in architecture, with particular emphasis on designing and delivering public infrastructure projects.
Essential qualifications include demonstrated expertise in preparing comprehensive technical documentation, including architectural plans, feasibility studies, and detailed cost assessments. Experience working with international development organizations or projects funded by the European Union is highly desirable, while familiarity with EU standards for construction, sustainability, and accessibility will be considered a significant asset.
Language requirements mandate proficiency in English, while knowledge of additional United Nations languages or regional languages will provide candidates with a competitive advantage. The ideal candidate must demonstrate strong abilities in developing and implementing sustainable design strategies, along with a proven track record of working effectively within multidisciplinary and multicultural team environments.
UNOPS emphasizes that successful candidates should possess excellent problem-solving and communication skills, the ability to balance long-term strategic thinking with immediate technical challenges, and unwavering commitment to UN values, particularly in areas of inclusion, diversity, and sustainability. The organization explicitly states that it does not request any form of payment at any stage of the recruitment process.
As an operational arm of the United Nations, UNOPS plays a central role in implementing peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects across the globe. With an active presence in more than 80 countries and a diverse workforce representing over 160 nationalities, UNOPS supports governments, international organizations, and partners in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The South East Europe Multi-Country Office (SEEMCO), which anchors this project, dedicates its efforts to fostering sustainable development and supporting the region's progress toward European integration. UNOPS takes pride in maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce while offering flexible working arrangements that help employees balance their professional responsibilities with personal commitments.
Interested applicants must submit their applications through the official UNOPS Jobs Portal before the deadline of October 7, 2025, at midnight Central European Time. All applications must include an updated curriculum vitae and relevant supporting documentation to be considered for this position.
This initiative represents UNOPS's commitment to building sustainable justice systems and contributing to a future where peace and development can thrive throughout the European region and beyond.
