Building Adviser - VAI4D

Position Description 

Position: Building Adviser

Program: Vanuatu Australia Infrastructure for Development (VAI4D)

Location: Port Vila, Vanuatu

Duration: Until June 30, 2026 (with the option to extend)

Required Travel: Possibility of travel within Vanuatu

Reports To: Lead Engineering Adviser

Direct Reports: Nil

Background

The Vanuatu Australia Infrastructure for Development (VAI4D) program is a five-year (2024-2029) investment funded by the Government of Australia through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). VAI4D supports the Government of Vanuatu’s Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU) to achieve sustainable and well-maintained infrastructure and services for all, through inclusive and effective partnerships. VAI4D continues Australia’s assistance to MIPU/PWD to effectively and efficiently managed Vanuatu’s public roads network while expanding support for strengthening the capacity of MIPU to deliver infrastructure projects in civil aviation, ports and marine, and public buildings.

The VAI4D investment is focused on three end of program outcomes (EOPOs):

EOPO 1: MIPU PWD manages Vanuatu’s public roads network effectively and efficiently.

EOPO 2: MIPU (civil aviation &/or ports and marine &/or public buildings) use improved systems, processes, and technologies.

EOPO 3: GoV agencies deliver infrastructure portfolios and projects more coherently, effectively, and efficiently, in coordination with GoA partners.

VAI4D also mainstreams and spotlights cross-cutting areas, including gender equity, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI), climate change & disaster risk resilience, social and environmental safeguards, localisation, and asset management through the identification, planning, design, implementation, and monitoring of projects.

Position Summary

The Building Adviser (BA) will work closely with MIPU’s Public Works Department (PWD) to drive the successful planning and delivery of building projects as well as improving processes and systems within the Architects Unit of PWD. The BA will also work with the Ministry of Internal Affairs/Port Vila City Council ‘s Town Planning Division to fulfil their mandate to approve building permits and inspect buildings for compliance with the Vanuatu National Building Code. Assist in the preparation of workplans and ongoing workplan revisions.

Duties and Responsibilities

-Provide input and support to the Principal Architect through all stages of building projects, including planning, scoping, feasibility studies, business case development, approvals, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover, ensuring compliance with the building code.

-Lead initiatives to strengthen the capacity of the PWD Architects Unit and broader building stakeholders, particularly in adopting modern systems, technologies, and processes.

-Provide input and support to the PWD Architects Unit to develop a 5-year asset management plan for buildings managed by PWD.

-Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including DFAT, local authorities, and industry partners, ensuring alignment on priorities and promoting collaboration.

-Ensure gender equity, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) are prioritized in project planning, implementation, and monitoring.

-Any other duties as requested by the Lead Engineering Adviser and/or Team Leader

Required Qualifications and Experience

-Tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering or related field;

-Knowledge and understanding of building construction activities;

-Knowledge and understanding of tender and contract documentation;

-Knowledge and understanding of contract project management and administration, project development and procurement;

-Successful experience in working within and developing the capacity of government agencies through informal and formal modalities, ideally in the Pacific. 

-Understanding of and commitment to Australian aid safeguard issues, specifically child protection, gender mainstreaming, and disability inclusion;

-Understanding of safety and environmental protection on the road programs.

-Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication, and relationship management skills.  

-Experience on DFAT funded programs preferred.

How to Apply

Please submit your application online before 9 April 2025, 11:59pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST).

Applications should include a one-page cover letter addressing the required qualifications and experience, a CV of no more than five pages and the contact details of three professional referees.

This position will be recruited through Adam Smith International (ASI). ASI is committed to continually improving the diversity of our workforce through the attraction, retention, and development of a diverse range of talented people. Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We want people to be comfortable bringing their whole self to work and recognise that inclusion brings further opportunities for innovation and creativity.