Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources & Environment (PNGUNRE)

The Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources & Environment (PNGUNRE) invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced professionals for the position of HR Officer – Performance Management within the Human Resources Department.

PNGUNRE is committed to strengthening governance, operational efficiency, employee accountability and service delivery across the University. As part of its ongoing institutional improvement agenda, the University is seeking a proactive and results-oriented Human Resource professional to coordinate the University's performance management framework and support the development of a high-performance culture across the institution.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Human Resource Manager, the HR Officer – Performance Management is responsible for coordinating and administering PNGUNRE’s employee performance management processes to promote accountability, productivity, continuous improvement and effective workforce performance.

The successful candidate will manage key performance management activities including performance planning, KPI development, performance reviews, probation monitoring, performance improvement processes and performance reporting.

Working closely with Schools, Departments, Divisions, managers and employees, the successful applicant will provide professional HR support to ensure performance expectations are clearly defined, monitored and aligned with PNGUNRE’s strategic objectives.

The position will play an important role in strengthening employee performance, improving organisational effectiveness and supporting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement across the University.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

Performance Management Administration

• Coordinating the implementation and administration of PNGUNRE’s employee performance management system across the University.
• Developing and maintaining annual performance management schedules, including performance planning, mid-year reviews and annual assessments.
• Providing guidance and support to managers and employees on performance management requirements, processes and documentation.
• Monitoring completion of employee performance agreements and performance reviews.
• Maintaining accurate and confidential performance management records.
• Preparing regular updates and reports on performance management activities for the Human Resource Manager.
• Ensuring performance management processes are conducted fairly, consistently and in accordance with approved University policies and procedures.

Performance Planning and KPI Management

• Assisting managers and supervisors in developing appropriate performance objectives, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and work expectations.
• Supporting alignment of individual employee performance goals with university strategic priorities, operational plans and departmental objectives.
• Providing advice on establishing measurable and achievable performance targets.
• Monitoring implementation of approved performance agreements and identifying areas requiring support or intervention.
• Maintaining performance documentation and records for reporting and compliance purposes.

Performance Reviews and Assessment

• Coordinating annual employee performance appraisal processes across Schools, Departments and Divisions.
• Providing support to supervisors and employees on performance assessment requirements and rating standards.
• Reviewing completed performance assessments to ensure accuracy, consistency and compliance with university requirements.
• Analysing performance trends and identifying recurring issues affecting employee productivity and effectiveness.
• Preparing performance reports and information to support management decision-making.
• Ensuring performance assessment records are properly maintained and available for audit and reference purposes.

Performance Improvement and Employee Development

• Supporting managers in addressing employee underperformance through appropriate performance improvement processes.
• Assisting in the development and monitoring of Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs).
• Providing advice on strategies to improve employee performance, accountability and workplace effectiveness.
• Identifying learning and development needs arising from performance reviews.
• Supporting HR initiatives aimed at improving employee capability, productivity and organisational performance.
• Promoting a culture of professionalism, continuous improvement and performance excellence.

Probation Management and Performance Monitoring

• Coordinating probation review processes for newly appointed employees.
• Monitoring probation periods and ensuring supervisors complete required assessments within approved timelines.
• Maintaining probation records and providing reports on probation status.
• Supporting recommendations relating to confirmation, extension or other employment decisions based on performance outcomes.

Performance Reporting and HR Advisory Support

• Preparing performance management reports including appraisal completion rates, performance trends and compliance statistics.
• Maintaining accurate performance information within the Human Resource Information System and relevant databases.
• Providing professional advice and customer-focused support to managers and employees on performance management matters.
• Assisting with HR projects, workforce productivity initiatives, organisational improvement activities and other duties as directed by the Human Resource Manager.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential Requirements

Applicants must possess:

• A Bachelor's Degree in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, Management, Public Administration or a related discipline.
• A minimum of three (3) years' relevant experience in Human Resource Management, with demonstrated experience in performance management, employee development or HR advisory services.
• Sound knowledge of performance management principles, systems and practices.
• Experience coordinating employee performance reviews, appraisals and performance documentation.
• Understanding of employee productivity, workforce improvement strategies and HR reporting requirements.
• Strong organisational, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and Human Resource Information Systems.

Desirable Qualifications

Preference will be given to applicants with:

• Experience working within a university, statutory authority or public sector organisation.
• Knowledge of PNG employment practices, Public Service requirements and HR policies.
• Experience developing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and performance improvement plans.
• Experience using HR Information Systems for performance tracking and reporting.
• Membership of a recognised Human Resource professional body.

Key Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

• Sound knowledge of performance management principles and practices.
• Ability to coordinate performance planning, monitoring and review processes.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret HR data.
• Ability to support managers in managing employee performance issues.
• Strong organisational and administrative capability.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to interpret policies and procedures.
• Strong report writing and documentation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Integrity, professionalism and ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Terms & Conditions

• Appointment will be made in accordance with the PNGUNRE Terms and Conditions of Employment.
• Performance will be assessed through the University's Performance Management System.
• The successful applicant may be required to travel to university campuses and external agencies as required.
• University accommodation is not a condition of employment. Preference will be given to applicants who are residents of East New Britain Province or those who are willing to relocate and are able to secure and meet their own accommodation arrangements.

Salary Range
Base Salary: K30, 495.00 – K37, 276.00

Why Join PNGUNRE?

PNGUNRE offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to strengthening Human Resource service delivery within Papua New Guinea's specialist university for natural resources and environment.

The successful candidate will play an important role in improving performance management systems, strengthening employee accountability, enhancing workforce productivity and supporting the University's commitment to operational excellence and institutional development.

Application Details

Interested applicants should submit:

• A written application addressing the selection criteria.
• A current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Certified copies of qualifications and other relevant certificates.
• Contact details of at least three (3) current professional referees.

Applications should be addressed to:

The Human Resources Manager
Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources & Environment
Private Mail Bag
Kokopo, East New Britain Province
Papua New Guinea

Or email applications to: [email protected]

Closing Date: Friday, 14 August 2026

PNGUNRE is an equal opportunity employer.