Job Description & Skills/Qualifications Required

The Opportunity

The University of the South Pacific (USP) is the premier tertiary institution in the Pacific region. Established in 1968, it is committed to international standards of research and teaching excellence, with an emphasis on key regional issues. USP is jointly owned by 12 member countries: Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Courses are offered face-to-face at our main campuses (predominantly at Laucala Campus where this position is based), as well as by online and blended modes, in order to cater for students spread across 33 million square kilometres of ocean, on both sides of the international dateline. This location at the heart of the world’s most linguistically diverse region makes USP a fascinating institution in which to work.

 The Estates and Infrastructure Services is responsible for the management and strategic oversight of the University’s property, buildings and infrastructure at all campuses and centers throughout its 12-member countries.  Strategic Asset Management, Property Maintenance, Building & Property Standards and Design Services, Occupational Health & Safety Standards, and the Project Management of Major Capital works are key areas within the Section of E & I Services working together to ensure the physical estate supports the University Strategic and Academic Plans for the campuses. These include being the drivers of key campus sustainability initiatives, including energy, water & space efficiency as well as waste management through the adoption and maintenance of internationally recognized and benchmarked property and service standards.

 The Estates and Infrastructure team is looking for Head, Capital Works/Projects. The incumbent will be responsible for the strategic oversight, prioritization, planning, and implementation of capital projects across all USP campuses and centres. This role ensures that projects are aligned with the University's Strategic Plan and Investment Framework, and delivered in compliance with regulatory and university standards. This position reports directly to the Director Estates & Infrastructure, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and governance frameworks. The position description can be downloaded by clicking on the link: https://www.bfound.net/Company/2090-20265222035219.pdf

 

The Person we Seek

To be considered for this position, applicants must have:

  • A degree and a postgraduate qualification in Engineering, Architecture, Project Management or relevant field; and
  • Six (6) years of relevant experience and proven management expertise in capital works or infrastructure project delivery;
  • Proven leadership in managing multi-site, multi-disciplinary teams;
  • Strong understanding of regional construction standards and regulatory environments;
  • Experience in higher education or public sector infrastructure;
  • Familiarity with Pacific Island contexts and stakeholder engagement;
  • Strategic thinker with strong planning and organizational skills;
  • Excellent communication and negotiation abilities;
  • Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities;
  • Proficient in project management software and reporting tools.

Enquiries and further information: Mr. Mervyn Lepper, Director, Estates and Infrastructure Services. E: mervyn.lepper@usp.ac.fj  P: (679) 32 32255


The position is available for a term of three years and may be renewed by mutual agreement.

Salary Range

  • FJ$103,576 to FJ$ 126,885 per annum   
  • The University may offer an attractive market loading to exceptional candidates.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is: 22 February 2026

How to Apply

Click the Apply button to apply for this position online.

The advertisement criteria is available on our University website (www.usp.ac.fj) under Employment Opportunities.

Please include the following documents in your application: Academic Credentials/Transcripts, Cover letter clearly addressing key Selection Criteria and Resume with names of three referees, one of which must be your current or most recent direct work supervisor. Referees will only be contacted if you are selected.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The University of the South Pacific is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and equitable environment that protects the rights of children; nurture, promote and facilitate mutual respect, constructive empowerment and progress amongst its employees, students, stakeholders including visitors, without being hampered by any form of sexual harassment, sexual abuse or sexual exploitation. We reserve the right to conduct police checks and other screening procedures to ensure a safe environment.

USP is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment. USP encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities.

 

 

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Industry

Education & Training