VACANCY: CHIEF PORT ENGINEER

(Port of Honiara & Noro)
Solomon Islands Ports Authority trading as Solomon Ports is inviting applications for the position of Chief Port Engineer.
The Chief Port Engineer (CPE) heads the Engineering Department and is responsible for ensuring that the Department provides advanced and efficient engineering services in order that the Authority’s overall mission, functions, and objectives are achieved. Specifically, the Department’s objective is to ensure port operations remain functional with equipment and infrastructure and to plan and implement major capital development. The CPE is a member of the Executive Management which is responsible for the overall management, strategic planning, and development of the Authority. He or she reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Oversee the functions of the Engineering Department in discharging its service and support
- Manage the Engineering Departments workforce in line with company rules and work ethics. Carry out such reorganization and upgrading to increase capacity and best work practice; recognizing staff performance and achievement.
- Formulate Capital Works Program and Estimate (CAPEX) and submit for management endorsement and Board approval. Manage CAPEX budget utilization and reporting
- Prepare Engineering Update Reports for submission to Management and Board
- Provide sound engineering advice to Management and Board.
- Undertake engineering assessments, surveys, design, and costing for port structures, building structures, civil works, utilities, and other facilities, bearing in mind best technical solution and value for money.
- Coordinate construction and contract administration of port structures, building structures, civil works, utilities, and other facilities utilizing both inhouse and contract labour.
- Oversee the repair and maintenance of port infrastructure including jetties, international berths, container terminal, and other facilities to meet safety standard and compliance.
- Consult with manufacturers and suppliers for the selection and purchase of cargo handling equipment and machinery that will give the best solution and ultimate capacity to port operation.
- Approve all engineering procurements for spare parts, construction materials, wharf furniture, tools, plant, and machinery.
- Liaise with stakeholders on land matters and property portfolio development.
- Coordinate and facilitate the maintenance and upgrading of Authority’s residential and commercial properties and services.
- Hiring and engagement of professional consultants, service contractors, and construction contractors.
- Consultation and coordination with Development Partners, International Consultants, and Contractors on large Port Development Projects.
- Collaborate with other SOE Stakeholders on matters of common interest.
- Collaborate with other departments of the Authority to ensure port services remain functional.
- Maintain strong coordination with other stakeholders in the maritime sector and to keep abreast with port development and maritime development in the region.
- Delegates tasks and responsibilities to engineers and schedule project deadlines
Requirements/ Experience
- Bachelor’s degree or higher qualification in Civil Engineering
- 5 or more years’ relevant experience in port infrastructure including, design and construction of jetties, wharves, shore protections, and other offshore/onshore structures.
- 10 or more years’ experience in a senior engineering management role.
- Good knowledge of Port Operations and Functions and the requirements in terms of Port Infrastructure, Cargo Handling Equipment, and other Port Facilities.
- Have vast experience with capital works budget, budget utilization, management and reporting.
- Demonstrated experience with hiring, negotiation, tender process and procurement of heavy plants and port operational equipment.
- Demonstrated experience in managing a team with various sections and meeting project deadlines.
- Proven experience in engineering design, construction, and project management.
Knowledge Skills & Abilities
- Excellent knowledge of engineering disciplines
- Must possess exceptional organizational and time management skills with an obsessive attention to details.
- Must have budgeting and cost management abilities.
- Excellent Interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work onsite and in the office.
- Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving capabilities
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Solomon Islands Ports Authority trading as Solomon Ports is an equal opportunity employer and provides industry standard benefits and good working conditions to its employees. If you have the relevant skills, and experience, please submit your application with at least two (2) referees and contact address and envelope marked “Chief Port Engineer” to:
Human Resource Manager
Solomon Islands Ports Authority
P.O. Box 307, Honiara.
Applications Closing date:21st March 2025 at 4.30 pm.
Applications can be hand delivered to SIPA Head Office, Dowling Drive, Point Cruz, Honiara. Alternatively, you can send via email: jobs@sipa.com.sb