The Public Health Division (PHD) employs around 42 staff based in Noumea and Suva. It supports members in developing healthier Pacific Island people and communities. The primary focus of the division is to provide scientific and technical assistance and to support the implementation of plans and programmes in member countries and territories. The primary goal for all PHD activities is to promote population health and well-being, prevent diseases, restore and/or maintain health and reduce inequalities in health. PHD is primarily concerned with improving and protecting public (population) health, rather than individual treatment services.
The role – Epidemiologist – Training will strengthen and contribute to public health surveillance, preparedness and response and research in the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) and the Pacific region. This is through strengthening capacity for coordinated regional surveillance, effective team management, administration and communication, enhancing evidence-based service delivery through research and strengthening national and regional preparedness and response to public health threats or events. This role will also work closely with Fiji National University and with other stakeholders in the delivery of the Strengthening Health Interventions in the Pacific – Data for Decision Making (SHIP-DDM) programme.
Job Summary
- Employer: Pacific Community (SPC)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Suva, Fiji
- Category: Public Health
- Salary: 3,245‒4,057 SDR per month (approximately FJD 10,028-12,535; USD 4,349-5,436; EUR 3,924-4,905)
- Closing Date: 2026-10-18
Key Responsibilities
- Form effective relationships with member countries and partner agencies in the implementation of the SHIP-DDM programme in the Pacific.
- Consult with crosscutting technical bodies within PHD and SPC to support the identified public health priorities in the SHIP-DDM course and develop joint approaches for action.
- Lead in developing capacity development plans for the implementation of SHIP-DDM in coordination with, or in consideration of, PHD and SPC’s programme activities, and the Pacific island countries and territories’ priorities.
- Support planning and scaling up training in field epidemiology including surveillance, outbreak investigations, and data use among PICT health professionals.
- Contribute to an environment that fosters effective and harmonious working relationships.
- Contribute to monitoring and evaluation of capacity development activities’ implementation.
- Provide technical inputs in the development of concept papers, protocols, and proposals.
- Contribute to programme, divisional and corporate meetings, publications and reports.
- Supervise the conduct of research activities as part of the output of SHIP-DDM programme including the PGDAE course.
- Document the results of research studies, and findings presented in appropriate medium and forums.
- Develop in-country capacity to systematically analyse health data to address specific health problems and use data for decision making and policy development.
- Support the development and strengthening of in-country capacities in surveillance and response.
- Promote and increase harmonisation of surveillance activities across PHD and SPC, and at regional and national levels in PICTs.
- Strengthen surveillance and response capacity at regional and national levels through system improvements.
- Provide technical support for enhanced surveillance during mass gatherings and emergency response to public health events (if required).
Requirements
- MBBS and master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, or related discipline or equivalent body of knowledge and experience.
- 10 years of experience in public health surveillance, including communicable and non-communicable disease surveillance.
- Experience in outbreak preparedness and response.
- Experience in the provision of capacity building or on-the job training in field epidemiology.
- Experience in operational research and writing scientific reports and papers.
- Cross-cultural skills and ability to work with colleagues from different cultural backgrounds.
- Highly developed oral and interpersonal communication skills.
- Willingness to travel frequently (up to 30% of the time) in the Pacific region and internationally.
- Excellent English communication skills (oral and written) with a working knowledge of French being an advantage.
- Ability to work in a multicultural, inclusive and equitable environment.
Salary
3,245‒4,057 SDR per month (approximately FJD 10,028-12,535; USD 4,349-5,436; EUR 3,924-4,905)
How to Apply
REF Code: JM000993
About the Company
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Join NowThe Pacific Community (SPC) is an international organisation headquartered in Noumea, New Caledonia, with significant operations in Fiji including its Regional Office for the Pacific based in Suva. Established in 1947, SPC works across 22 Pacific Island countries and territories, delivering technical assistance in areas such as public health, agriculture, fisheries, education, statistics, and climate resilience. In Fiji, SPC employs local staff and implements programmes supporting sustainable development, food security, and disaster preparedness, working closely with the Fijian government and communities. The organisation is owned and governed by its 26 member countries and territories, including Fiji, which contributes to and benefits from its regional initiatives.
The Pacific's principal scientific and technical organisation
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required to become an Epidemiologist in Fiji?
Most positions require a Master's degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related health science field from a recognized institution. Additional certifications in data analysis software like R or SAS are highly valued. Registration with the Fiji Medical Council or relevant professional body may be required for clinical epidemiology roles.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of an Epidemiologist working in Fiji?
Daily tasks include collecting and analyzing disease surveillance data, investigating disease outbreaks in communities, and preparing reports for the Ministry of Health. You will collaborate with district health teams and international partners like WHO. Field visits to rural and maritime zones are common to monitor health trends.
How does the local work culture in Fiji affect an Epidemiologist's role?
Fijian workplaces emphasize respect for hierarchy and community consultation, so building relationships with village leaders and health workers is essential. The 'Fiji time' concept means flexibility is needed, though deadlines for outbreak responses are treated with urgency. Team collaboration and talanoa-style communication are central to effective public health work.
What career progression opportunities exist for Epidemiologists in Fiji?
With experience, you can advance to senior epidemiologist roles, health information unit management, or policy advisory positions within the Ministry of Health. Regional organizations like SPC and WHO offer pathways into Pacific-wide health leadership. Some professionals transition into academic research or doctoral studies with international scholarships.
What typical benefits should I expect when working as an Epidemiologist in Fiji?
Government and international agency positions usually include annual leave of 20-25 days, medical insurance coverage, and pension contributions through the Fiji National Provident Fund. SPC and similar organizations may offer expatriate benefits including housing allowances and home leave for international recruits. Specific packages vary by employer and contract type.
How should I apply for Epidemiologist positions in Fiji, and what do employers look for?
Monitor vacancies on the Fiji Ministry of Health website, SPC careers portal, and regional job boards like Pacific Jobs. Employers prioritize demonstrated field experience, proficiency in statistical software, and understanding of Pacific health challenges. Tailor your application to show community engagement skills and flexibility to work across diverse island contexts.