The establishment of SPREP in 1993 sends a clear signal to the global community of the deep commitment of Pacific Island Governments and Administrations for better management of the environment within the context of sustainable development. The strategic direction for SPREP is clearly set out in the 2017-2026 SPREP Strategic Plan. The Plan outlines the mandate, vision and programmes for the organisation, and places strong emphasis on effective delivery of services to SPREP Member countries and territories.
This job exists to: Coordinate and provide technical advice to support implementation of selected coastal and marine activities as part of SPREP component of the Pacific Ocean Initiative.
Job Summary
- Employer: SPREP (Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Suva, Fiji
- Category: Environmental Science
- Salary: Starting salary will be SDR30,237. This is equivalent to SAT115,393 per annum. Upon confirmation of probation, salary will be adjusted to SDR34,016 which is equivalent to SAT129,817 per annum.
- Closing Date: 2026-10-08
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate the day-to-day operations of coastal and marine POI activities with countries, beneficiaries and partners, including monitoring and reporting, to ensure timely delivery of project outputs and outcomes as well as complementarities and synergies among project activities, in coordination with the Project Manager, relevant SPREP teams and SPC FAME division where needed.
- Provide technical and policy advice to Pacific Island Countries and Territories and partners for the planning, implementation and monitoring of SPREP POI’s activities related to coastal and marine ecosystems’ health and resilience, especially on coral reefs, marine species, Marine Protected Areas and Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures.
- Support research and data analysis and consolidate findings to strengthen evidence based on coastal and marine ecosystems and resources at national and local level.
- Work with the Project Management Unit and implementing partners to develop and implement Annual Work Plans and Budgets (AWP&B) for SPREP coastal and marine activities.
- Work with the Project Support Officer to ensure that high quality and effective communication and outreach products for coastal and marine activities are designed and disseminated, in accordance with AFD level 2 Communication and Visibility requirements.
- Work with the Project Support Officer to contribute to effective monitoring and reporting of coastal and marine activities to SPREP, AFD, project steering committee and national partners.
- Work with the Project Management Unit to develop high-quality reports, including technical, financial, and performance reports on SPREP coastal and marine activities and outcomes.
- Prepare relevant briefings notes, updates and presentations about the progress of SPREP Pacific Ocean Initiative’s coastal and marine activities when required.
- Facilitate and coordinate SPREP’s activities related to coastal and marine ecosystems and species conservation and management with Members, partners and key stakeholders, in coordination with the Project Manager, SPREP’s coastal and marine team and migratory species teams, and SPC FAME Division.
- Maintain and strengthen effective partnerships and collaboration with implementing partners, beneficiary countries and other stakeholders.
Requirements
- Minimum qualifications of a Bachelor degree in Coastal and Marine Ecology, Coastal Planning and Management, Environmental science, Marine Biology, or other relevant technical field. A higher qualification would be an advantage.
- 5-7 years of extensive experience and technical assistance in coastal and marine ecosystem conservation and management, coastal and marine species conservation, preferably within the Pacific Islands region (experience in SIDS in other regions would also be an asset).
- Excellent knowledge of coastal and marine environment issues and challenges in the Pacific Island region, in particular those relating to coastal and marine ecosystems monitoring, management, conservation measures, community-based fisheries management etc.
- Good understanding and knowledge of the Pacific Island’s region, ability to work and collaborate within a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural team environment, as well as proven experience in establishing and maintaining effective relationships with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
- Good understanding of scientific and technical partners operating within the Pacific Island region, as well as demonstrated ability to turn scientific results into decision-support tools, policy briefs, user-friendly formats, or communication and outreach materials.
- Excellent relationships and communications skills including writing and high level of presentation and reporting to diverse audiences particularly in the Pacific setting.
- Experience in project management including design and delivery of work programme activities, monitoring and evaluation of performance, and reporting requirements.
- Fluency in English (written and verbal)
Salary
Starting salary will be SDR30,237. This is equivalent to SAT115,393 per annum. Upon confirmation of probation, salary will be adjusted to SDR34,016 which is equivalent to SAT129,817 per annum.
How to Apply
REF Code: CMO-POI
About the Company
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Join NowSPREP (Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme) is an intergovernmental organisation headquartered in Apia, Samoa, with significant operations and engagement in Fiji. The organisation works with the Fijian government and local stakeholders on environmental protection, climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and waste management initiatives across the archipelago. In Fiji, SPREP implements regional programmes including marine ecosystem management, sustainable land use, and disaster preparedness, often partnering with the Ministry of Environment and other national agencies. Its presence supports Fiji's commitments to international environmental conventions and strengthens local capacity for natural resource management. The organisation employs regional technical staff and coordinates projects that directly benefit Fijian communities and ecosystems.
Protecting the Pacific environment for sustainable development
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become a Coastal and Marine Officer with SPREP or similar organisations in Fiji?
Most roles require a bachelor's degree in marine biology, environmental science, oceanography, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification is often preferred for senior positions. Practical certifications in GIS, diving, or vessel operation can strengthen your application.
What does a typical day look like for a Coastal and Marine Officer in Fiji?
Your day may involve fieldwork monitoring coral reefs or mangroves, data collection from coastal communities, and report writing at the office. You will collaborate with government ministries, NGOs, and village leaders on marine conservation projects. Expect irregular hours when conducting community consultations or responding to environmental incidents.
How does workplace culture in Fiji-based environmental organisations differ from international NGOs?
Fijian workplaces emphasise respect for hierarchy, relationship-building, and consensus-driven decision making. You will need to navigate protocols when engaging with iTaukei communities and traditional leaders. Punctuality is valued, though meetings often begin with informal talanoa to establish trust.
What career progression opportunities exist for marine conservation professionals in Fiji?
You can advance from technical officer to programme coordinator, then to senior management or regional specialist roles. Some professionals transition into policy advisory positions with government or move into academic research and lecturing at USP. Regional mobility across Pacific island countries is common for senior roles.
What benefits should I expect from full-time environmental roles with regional organisations like SPREP?
Benefits typically include annual leave, medical insurance, and pension contributions, though specifics vary by employer and funding source. Some positions offer housing allowances or relocation support for international hires. Always review the terms carefully as contract types differ between project-funded and core staff positions.
How should I prepare my application for marine conservation roles in Fiji, and what do employers prioritise?
Tailor your CV to highlight field experience in Pacific island contexts and community engagement skills. Employers value demonstrated cultural competency, practical skills like boat handling or data analysis, and networks within the regional conservation community. A concise cover letter explaining your motivation for Pacific marine work is essential.