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 in Fiji?
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in marine science, environmental management, or a related field, with postgraduate qualifications often preferred. Practical experience in Pacific Island contexts and knowledge of marine ecosystems are highly valued by regional employers like SPREP.
What does a typical day look like for a Coastal and Marine Officer in this role?
Your day may involve fieldwork monitoring coral reefs or mangroves, drafting technical reports on marine protected areas, and coordinating with government and community stakeholders across Pacific nations. Office time in Suva is balanced with travel to outer islands for project implementation and community consultations.
How does the work culture at SPREP in Fiji differ from other regional organizations?
SPREP emphasizes Pacific-led solutions and consensus-building, so expect collaborative decision-making and respect for traditional knowledge alongside scientific approaches. The culture blends formal regional diplomacy with the relaxed interpersonal style common in Fiji, though deadlines for international donors remain strict.
What career progression opportunities exist for marine officers in Fiji's regional environmental sector?
With experience, you can advance to senior technical advisor roles, programme management positions, or specialized areas like climate adaptation or maritime spatial planning. Many professionals also transition into government ministries, consulting, or doctoral research supported by regional scholarships.
What benefits are typically included in coastal and marine officer positions with international organizations based in Fiji?
Benefits usually include health insurance, annual leave of 20-30 days, and participation in a superannuation or pension scheme, though specifics vary by employer and funding source. Some regional postings may include housing allowances or relocation support for international hires.
How should I apply for this role and what do employers like SPREP look for in Fijian candidates?
Apply through official SPREP channels with a tailored CV highlighting Pacific field experience, community engagement skills, and familiarity with regional frameworks like the Pacific Islands Framework for Nature Conservation. Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate cultural competency, adaptability to remote conditions, and proven collaboration with diverse stakeholders.