Comunitatea Mea program vacancies - Short-Term Technical Assistance (STTA) - Cost Estimator

USAID’s Comunitatea Mea (CM) is an eight-year program that aims to strengthen local governments in Moldova to become more effective, transparent, and accountable to citizens. CM is USAID’s flagship local government program providing comprehensive assistance to communities, primarily targeting local self-governing bodies. By increasing the capacity of local authorities, including their ability to work inclusively with citizens and civil society, not only services will be improved but checks and balances between the central and local governments will be strengthened, improving the overall system of democratic governance in Moldova.

Tetra Tech is a subcontractor to the prime CM implementer, IREX. Under this subcontract, Tetra Tech is seeking the services of a Short-Term Technical Assistance (STTA) Cost Estimator to support the preparation of project proposals for small-scale infrastructure projects. These projects are intended to be financed through USAID funding with local cost-share, aiming to enhance community development and sustainability.

Objectives: The primary objective of the STTA Cost Estimator is to verify and/or suggest changes to cost estimates for small-scale infrastructure projects proposed by the LG. This includes, but is not limited to, the estimation of construction costs, material costs, labor costs, and any other associated expenses. The services can also be provided during the implementation phase, as modifications are proposed by contractor or imposed by unforeseen conditions.

Scope of Work:

a. Review project proposals and technical documentation provided by the LG.

b. Conduct site visits, if necessary, to assess local conditions that may impact cost estimates. (Transport shall be provided by IREX).

c. Develop detailed cost estimates for construction, labor, materials, equipment, and other relevant project components.

d. Collaborate with the project engineers to ensure alignment between proposed activities and budget constraints, including splitting of the provided cost estimations in phases or in separate contracts.

e. Provide recommendations for cost-effective alternatives and value engineering, where applicable.

Deliverables:

a. Check detailed cost estimates for proposed small-scale infrastructure project.

b. Updated cost estimates (using WIN SMETA), or provided separate distinct estimates for phases or for separate contractors.

c. Presentation materials for beneficiary and or designer meetings, if required.

d. Check bid proposals for accuracy (optional, as needed)

Duration: The STTA assignment is take over during 24 months, with an estimated total LOE of 60 days/year.

Qualifications:

a. Proven experience in cost estimation for civil infrastructure projects.

b. Knowledge of local construction markets, materials, and labor costs.

c. Strong analytical and communication skills.

d. Relevant academic qualifications in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field.

Reporting and Communication: The STTA Cost Estimator will report directly to the construction manager. Regular updates on progress and challenges should be communicated in a timely manner.

Confidentiality: The consultant must adhere to strict confidentiality regarding any proprietary or sensitive information obtained during the assignment.

Evaluation Criteria: Proposals will be evaluated based on the consultant's experience, qualifications, proposed approach, and proposed daily rate.

Budget: The consultant should submit a fully loaded rate (not including transportation costs which shall be provided) – gross rate in MDL/day.

Proposal Submission: Interested consultants should submit their CVs (English preferred, or Romanian), including a relevant references and proposed daily rates, by January 26, 2024,  6:00 PM (Republic of Moldova time). Submissions should be sent to hr-md@irex.org.

Please include “Cost Estimator” in the subject line.

Contract Terms: The selected consultant will enter into a formal agreement, outlining terms and conditions, payment schedule, and other relevant details.