Biosecurity, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Officer

The Land Resources Division (LRD) provides advice, technical assistance, research and training support to Pacific Island countries and territories on all aspects of agriculture and forestry. This includes plant protection, conservation, plant genetic resources, animal health and production, agroforestry, biosecurity and trade facilitation, and sustainable systems for agriculture, forestry and land management. This work has two objectives: improved food and nutritional security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and resilient communities. The division’s services are provided through seven technical/thematic teams: Animal Health and Production; Plant Health; Biosecurity and Trade Facilitation; Forest and Agriculture Diversification; Crop Production and Extension; Genetic Resources; and Forests and Trees. The Biosecurity, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Officer will provide timely technical support and services in Biosecurity and Sanitary and Phytosanitary matters at both the country and regional level. The role entails the provision of services on request by the member countries and documentation and dissemination to partners and stakeholders through existing knowledge platforms. The key responsibilities of the role include:

• Technical support to countries – Liaise with focal points in the Pacific Plant Protection Organisation member countries for a coordinated approach on Biosecurity & SPS Training.
• Research and Development – Carry out Research with Private and Academic institutions on Biosecurity and SPS issues that are critical for member countries to give the level of assurance needed for market access export requests on SPS.
• Communication and Information Dissemination – Facilitate tracking of implementation program of program activities. Ongoing coordination and timely feedback to Member countries on technical reports and support relating to Biosecurity threats and trade issues relating to SPS.
• Programming and Coordination – Support the Integrated Programme Coordinator (Biosecurity, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Standards) in the programming, development and delivery of the Biosecurity & SPS work plans

For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the job description provided.

Key selection criteria

Qualifications

• Degree in a relevant field such as agricultural science, plant protection or biosecurity

Knowledge and experience

• At least 7 years of experience in a similar field or line of work with government, NGOs or regional organisations
• Demonstrated experience in technical research including development project writing on biosecurity and SPS
• Knowledge on addressing biosecurity and SPS non-compliance issues and technical report writing

Essential skills

• Strong technical knowledge on EWS, EDRR, SCHS, AFAS, ISPMS, PRAs and IRAs
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, creative thinker and ability to work independently

Language skills

• Excellent English communication skills (oral and written) with a working knowledge of French being an advantage

Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness

• Ability to work in a multicultural, inclusive and equitable environment

Salary, terms and conditions

Contract Duration – Until 31 December 2022 Due to the current travel restrictions caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic, and the priority SPC places on its staff safety, health and well-being, please note that there may be delays in taking up the appointment. These matters will be discussed thoroughly with successful candidates. In most cases, any appointment and on-boarding would only commence when relocation to the duty station is permitted. Remuneration – The Biosecurity, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Officer is a Band 8 position in SPC’s 2021 salary scale, with a starting salary range of 1,994‒2,493 SDR (special drawing rights) per month, which currently converts to approximately FJD 6,022–7,528 (USD 2,772–3,465; EUR 2,446–3,058). An offer of appointment for an initial contract will normally be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews. Remuneration of expatriate SPC staff members is not subject to income tax in Fiji; Fiji nationals employed by SPC in Fiji will be subject to income tax. Benefits for international employees based in Fiji – SPC provides a housing allowance of FJD 1,350–3,000 per month. Establishment and repatriation grant, removal expenses, airfares, home leave travel, health and life insurance are available for eligible employees and their recognised dependants. Employees are entitled to 25 working days of annual leave per annum and other types of leave, and access to SPC’s Provident Fund (contributing 8% of salary, to which SPC adds a matching contribution). Languages – SPC’s working languages are English and French. Recruitment principles - SPC’s recruitment is based on merit and fairness, and candidates are competing in a selection process that is fair, transparent and non-discriminatory. SPC is an equal-opportunity employer, and is committed to cultural and gender diversity, including bilingualism, and will seek to attract and appoint candidates who respect these values. Due attention is given to gender equity and the maintenance of strong representation from Pacific Island professionals. If two interviewed candidates are ranked equal by the selection panel, preference will be given to the Pacific Islander. Applicants will be assured of complete confidentiality in line with SPC’s Privacy Policy.