Infrastructure Adviser - VAI4D

Position Description 

Position: Infrastructure Adviser

Program: Vanuatu Australia Infrastructure for Development (VAI4D)

Location: Port Vila, Vanuatu

Duration: Upto 100 days (with the option to extend)

Required Travel: Possible 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 Infrastructure Adviser (IA) will work closely with MIPU’s Public Works Department (PWD) and with the Department of Ports and Harbor (DPH) and Civil Aviation Authority Vanuatu (CAAV) to undertake a comprehensive and thorough Domestic Ports and Airports Situation and Needs analysis focusing on infrastructure assets development and management. The IA would then recommend opportunities for support from VAI4D to drive the successful delivery of aviation and maritime infrastructure initiatives, supporting the achievement of program outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities

-Strategic Leadership & Oversight: Provide expert advice on aviation and maritime infrastructure, coastal management, and related needs, ensuring alignment with VAI4D's goals and national policies.

-Infrastructure Development: Identify maritime and aviation infrastructure initiatives outlined in the Vanuatu Infrastructure Strategic Investment Plan (2015-2025) and the National Ports Development & Management Plan (2040).

-Capacity Building: Identify initiatives to strengthen the capacity of PWD and broader transport sector stakeholders, particularly in adopting modern systems, technologies, and processes.

-Asset Management & Compliance: Identify asset management systems to ensure best practice standards i.e. ProMIS (development by the Roads Program) are met, supporting sustainable operations and resilience to climate change and natural disasters.

-Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration: Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including DFAT, local authorities, and industry partners, ensuring alignment on priorities and promoting collaboration.

-GEDSI Integration: Identify gender equity, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) opportunities.

-Any other duties as requested by the Team Leader

Required Qualifications and Experience

-Tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering or related field;

-Knowledge and understanding of asset management;

-Demonstrated experience in conducting needs analysis within the infrastructure sector;

-Knowledge and understanding of aviation and maritime infrastructure;

-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.

-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.