The Pacific Community (SPC) is seeking a Technical Officer for Ocean Observations to provide hands-on support for regional ocean observation and monitoring activities, with a primary focus on wave monitoring systems. This role is crucial for the deployment, maintenance, and operational sustainability of wave buoys and other in-situ ocean observing systems across SPC member countries.
The successful candidate will contribute to applications relevant to fisheries, maritime, and ocean and climate services, operating within SPC’s technical workshop capability. This position offers an opportunity to work with a leading scientific and technical organization in the Pacific region, supporting sustainable development for Pacific people.
Quick Facts
| Opportunity | Job |
|---|---|
| Institution | Pacific Community (SPC) |
| Department | Geoscience Energy and Maritime (GEM) Division |
| Location | Not specified, Fiji |
| Region | Oceania |
| Open to | International applicants |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Stipend / Salary | SDR 2,146–2,683 per month (approx. FJD 6,632–8,290; USD 2,876–3,595; EUR 2,595–3,244) gross, plus housing allowance and other benefits for eligible international staff. |
| Duration | Until 30 June 2028, with potential for renewal |
| Start date | Not specified |
| Application deadline | 29 November 2026 |
About the Position
The Technical Officer will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and participating in the deployment, recovery, and redeployment of wave buoys and other in-situ ocean observing instruments, including ADCPs, water-quality sensors, and multi-sensor platforms. Key duties involve providing technical maintenance and troubleshooting support, ensuring data quality assurance, managing data procedures, and contributing to the development of standard operating procedures. The role also includes technical input to procurement processes for ocean observing equipment and services, as well as asset management.
Eligibility
- Degree in electronics, electrical engineering, marine science or technology, ocean instrumentation, or equivalent experience.
- Open Water Diving certification or equivalent occupational diving certification, and fitness for work-related diving activities.
- Minimum 4-5 years of progressive technical experience in marine, oceanographic, environmental monitoring, or related operational fieldwork.
- Demonstrated experience in deployment, recovery, commissioning, testing, and validation of in-situ observation systems (e.g., wave buoys, moorings, current meters).
- Practical experience maintaining and troubleshooting marine instrumentation, including sensors, telemetry, power systems, and associated electronics.
- Experience supporting or applying preventative and corrective maintenance practices, including record-keeping and technical documentation.
- Understanding of marine field operations, including site selection, environmental conditions, operational risks, and safety requirements.
- Experience delivering hands-on technical training or mentoring to adult learners or technical counterparts.
- Proven ability to work effectively with government agencies, technical services, and regional partners.
- Excellent English communication skills (oral and written); working knowledge of French is an advantage.
- Ability to work in a multicultural, inclusive, and equitable environment.
Benefits
- Housing allowance of FJD 1,500–5,200 per month for international staff in Suva
- Establishment and repatriation grant for eligible employees
- Removal expenses and airfares for eligible employees
- Home leave travel for eligible employees
- Health, life, and disability insurances for eligible employees and dependents
- Education allowances for eligible employees and dependents
- 25 working days of annual leave per annum
- Access to SPC’s Provident Fund (8% employee contribution, 10% SPC contribution)
- Remuneration for expatriate SPC staff members is not subject to income tax in Fiji
Documents Required
- Updated resume with contact details for three professional referees
- Cover letter detailing skills, experience, and interest in the position
- Responses to all screening questions
How to Apply
- Apply online at http://careers.spc.int/
- Ensure all required documents are provided in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format.
- Do not attach copies of qualifications or letters of reference.
FAQs
What is the contract duration?
The contract is until 30 June 2028, subject to renewal based on funding and performance.
Are there specific screening questions for the application?
Yes, applicants must provide responses to screening questions (maximum 2,000 characters per question) covering qualifications/experience relevance, fieldwork experience, and data collection/management/quality control experience.
Is there a preference for Pacific Islanders?
Yes, if two interviewed candidates are ranked equally by the selection panel, preference will be given to the Pacific Islander.
What are the language requirements?
Excellent English communication skills (oral and written) are required, with a working knowledge of French being an advantage. SPC's working languages are English and French.
Source: ReliefWeb Jobs.
Details can change – always confirm eligibility and deadline on the official listing before applying.
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