Description
The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 27 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our organisation works across more than 25 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health surveillance, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.
The Land Resources Division (LRD) aims to provides effective expert scientific advice, capacity building and services on conservation, development and utilization of plant genetic resources, forest and landscape management, resilient agricultural systems, diversification of livelihood strategies and access to markets to maintain ecosystem services and improve land productivity and the food, nutrition security and resilience of Pacific communities. LRD has expertise in genetic resource conservation, resilient agriculture, biosecurity, pest and disease management, agricultural extension, plant pathology, entomology, and animal health. It collaborates with governments, regional organisations, civil society and other SPC divisions to pinpoint the needs and priorities of Pacific countries and communities and provide technical expertise to address them. This mission is realized through four main thematic work areas, or pillars, and a progressively integrated approach to programming that works towards achieving SPC’s development goals.
The Sustainable Forests and Landscape Management Pillar, housed within the Land Resource Division of SPC, contributes to the sustainable management of forest and land resources by assisting Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) address major issues and challenges through the provision of technical experts, facilitation, and technical advisory to the countries. This program of work aims to support, enhance and build capacities on sustainable forest and land management in PICTs in light of climate change impacts, to maintain ecosystem services, improve land productivity and enhance community and ecosystem resilience.
The role – Forest Management Technician will support the identification, development, design and coordination of the Pacific regional forestry professional networks. The incumbent will also facilitate the provision of technical support in forest management to enhance coordination and engagement of the network.
The key responsibilities of the role include: Coordination of the Pacific Forestry Professionals Network
- Support the implementation of all Information, Communication, and Knowledge Management (ICKM) activities for the Pillar.
- Contribute to strengthening Sustainable Forests and Landscapes Management (SFLM) pillar presence at key regional and national events, e.g. Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF), Asia Pacific Forestry Week (APFW).
- Participate and support the promotion of SFLM pillar work in special events such as the International Day of Forests, International Women’s Day, International UN Desertification, and Drought Day etc.
- Support the establishment of new networks and contribute where possible to the strengthening of existing partnership with key stakeholders.
Technical support on Sustainable Forest and Landscapes Management
- Support the development of Sustainable Forest and Landscape Management guidelines, manuals and policies that meets regional and international commitments e.g. Climate Change, Gender, Human rights.
- Assist with the development and monitoring of pillar work plans.
- Contribute to planning and development of inclusive Land Use Plans for member countries.
- Contribute to the development of Healthy Ecosystem Integrated Programme.
Awareness and Communications on Sustainable Forest and Landscape
- Support the implementation of all Information, Communication, and Knowledge Management (ICKM) activities for the Pillar.
- Contribute to strengthening Sustainable Forests and Landscapes Management (SFLM) pillar presence at key regional and national events, e.g. Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF), Asia Pacific Forestry Week (APFW).
- Participate and support the promotion of SFLM pillar work in special events such as the International Day of Forests, International Women’s Day, International UN Desertification, and Drought Day etc.
- Support the establishment of new networks and contribute where possible to the strengthening of existing partnership with key stakeholders.
For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the online job description.
Key selection criteria
Qualifications
- A technical diploma in environmental science, land management, geography, climate change, ecosystems or related discipline.
Technical expertise
- At least 5 years of progressively responsible work in the areas related with this position, including at least 3 years of experience in the international sector.
- Demonstrated experience in working with Pacific region Government representatives and international sector partners.
- Demonstrated working knowledge of regional and national policies and frameworks in the area of forestry, land management, biodiversity and climate change.
- Proven strong presentation skills.
Language skills
- Excellent English communication skills (oral and written).
Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness
- Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to work with a wide range of individuals in a multicultural environment.
Salary, terms and conditions
Contract Duration – 3 years – subject to renewal depending on funding and performance.
Remuneration – The Forest Management Technician is a Band 7 position in SPC’s 2023 salary scale, with a commencing taxable salary range of FJD 2,287-2,859 per month, plus local staff benefits. 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.
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.
Application procedure
Closing Date – 10 August 2023 at 11:59pm (Fiji time)
Job Reference: MC000036
Applicants must apply online at http://careers.spc.int/
Hard copies of applications will not be accepted.
For your application to be considered, you must provide us with:
- an updated resume with contact details for three professional referees
- a cover letter detailing your skills, experience and interest in this position
- responses to all screening questions
Your application will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed at shortlisting stage if all the above documents are not provided. Applicants should not attach copies of qualifications or letters of reference. Please ensure your documents are in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format.
SPC does not charge a fee to consider your application and will never ask for your banking or financial information during the recruitment process.
Only Fijian citizens are eligible to apply for this role.
Screening Questions (maximum of 2,000 characters per question):
- What would be the benefits of a Regional Network for Forestry professionals?
- What are some potential risks in co-ordinating the regional network and how would you mitigate these risks?
- How can Sustainable Forest Management contribute to livelihood and resiliency in the region?
Position Description
Type: Contract – Local
Category: Forestry – Plant Genetic Resources – Biosecurity & Conservation
Reference ID: MC000036
Date Posted: 25/07/2023
