Project Veterinary Officer [BTEC] (Ministry of Agriculture)

The position is responsible to provide the necessary on field support and guidance for the application of professional veterinary knowledge and experience related to animal health and production.     

Key Responsibilities

The position will achieve its purpose through the following key duties:

1. Plan and implement programs, including laboratory and field investigations to support the successful implementation of the Fiji Bovine Brucellosis and Tuberculosis (BTEC) programme within timeline.

2. Train and monitor field staff, in their performance, in the application of bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis testing techniques and assist in the quick removal of reactors from farms.

3. Assist and conduct regular trainings on identified gaps /weaknesses gathered from the field, inspection techniques of Meat inspectors at abattoirs in order to maintain international standards on veterinary care.

4. Lead in the trace-back studies or investigations needed based on abattoir meat inspection findings.

5. Coordinate uniformity of BTEC testing and inspection standards within the group and ensure appropriate corrective action is implemented where relevant.

6. Assist with the proper management and productive use of staff and resources needed for the successful implementation of the Fiji BTEC programme.

7. Gather, analyse and oversee the accurate collection and storage of data related to the Fiji BTEC programme, on field testing and abattoir meat inspections and provide progressive updates within due timelines.

8. Maintain seamless coordination with relevant Stakeholders on regulatory issues, investigate and make recommendations to support the effectiveness and enhancement of quality veterinary care in Fiji.

9. Coordinate submission of relevant reports returns as required under relevant legislations/regulations.

10. Actively contribute to corporate outcomes, work closely with human resources, undertake additional responsibilities as when required by Senior Management, foster change management, follows financial and human resource management guidelines, budgeting, planning, provide policy advice and regulations, principles, and uphold integrity and standards in all aspects of work.

Knowledge & Experience

1. 1. At least 7 to 8 years relevant work experience in a position equivalent in nature.
2. 2. Good working knowledge and experience on Veterinary Public Health Programmes, managing animal disease control and eradication, farm animal medicine, principles of diseases surveillance, diseases management and emergency response.
3. 3. Knowledge of writing project proposals and management of project management activities.
4. 4. Sound knowledge of relevant policies and legislations, Acts, Fijian (2013) Constitution.
5. 5. Demonstrated extensive experience in providing quality reports and feedbacks within timelines.

Skills & Abilities

1. 1. Demonstrated good leadership skills to build and manage high performing teams.
2. 2. Engage in a strategic direction, encourages clear objectives and communicates expected outcomes to effectively achieve business outcomes.
3. 3. Strong written and verbal communication skills with highly developed interpersonal skills to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, clients and stakeholders.
4. 4. Demonstrated ability to think strategically, analyse and appropriate attention to details to solve complex problems in a resource constrained environment.
5. 5. Ability to deal with confidential information and maintain professionalism, integrity and work ethics.
6. 6. Proficient Computer skills with the capacity to utilise tools and programs to support the operations of complex operation in a sensitive working environment.
7. 7. Service oriented approach, with a commitment to supporting the operations of the division with confidence and decisive.

Additional Information

Applicants for employment must be Fijian Citizens, under Age 60, in sound health, with a clear police record. The successful applicant will be required to provide a medical certificate and police clearance as a condition of employment for substantive appointment. 

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the Post Processing Unit within the Human Resources Development & Services Division on 323 7364 or 323 7353.