Senior HR Officer

The Organisation:

Pacific Adventist University (PAU) is owned and operated by the South Pacific Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The institution is accredited to the Adventist Accreditation Association, an international denominational authority for all tertiary and graduate educational programs and institutions owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church entities. The main campus is located on the pristine Koiari Park, 14 miles outside Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. The institution was established in 1984. Since then, it has grown from a college of 20 students, to a university of over 1000 students from across the Pacific.

The Role:

Reporting to the HR Director the Senior HR Officer is responsible for managing all aspects of human resources practices and processes. This position performs a critical role in overseeing various HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, training and development, and compliance with labour laws and university policies. The Senior HR Office’s key pivotal in ensuring PAU attracts, develops, and retains talented staff members who align with the university's mission and values. This position also performs a wide variety of administrative and organisational tasks, all of which contribute to the efficient and effective operation of the Human Resources Department and Pacific Adventist University. The role requires a proactive and resourceful individual who can effectively manage HR functions to support the university's strategic goals and foster a positive work environment.

Core Responsibilities:

• Support the development and implementation of HR strategies in alignment with PAU’s mission and values.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations in Papua New Guinea, along with university policies
• Manage the recruitment process from job posting to onboarding, ensuring compliance with PAU’s recruitment policies and practices.
• Conduct interviews, screen candidates, and coordinate selection decisions with hiring managers and selection committee.
• Serve as a point of contact for employee queries and concerns, providing guidance and support to resolve issues Facilitate effective communication between management and employees.
• Implement and oversee performance appraisal processes, providing training and guidance to managers and staff.
• Monitor performance evaluations and ensure they align with PAU’s performance management framework.
• Identify training needs and coordinate training programs and workshops to enhance employee skills and knowledge.
• Support career development initiatives and succession planning efforts.
• Maintain accurate HR records and documentation, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and university policies.
• Prepare HR reports for HR Director and Administrations’ review.
• Develop, review, and update HR policies and procedures in line with legislative changes and organizational needs.
• Ensure policies are communicated effectively and consistently applied across the university.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including health insurance, education, leave (all types), leave travel, retirement plans, and other fringe benefits.
• Assist employees with benefits-related inquiries and claims processing.
• Participate in HR projects such as employee engagement surveys, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and organizational development programs.
• Collaborate with schools and other departments to support university-wide HR initiatives.

About you:

Qualifications and Skills required:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Proven experience (minimum of 3 years) as an HR Officer/ Senior HR Officer, HR Generalist, or in a similar HR role, preferably in an educational institution or a large organization.
• Strong understanding of HR best practices and, employment laws and regulations in PNG
• Proficiency in HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) and MS Office Suit
• High level of customer service and interpersonal skills, with an ability to relate well to clients from a broad range
• of cultural backgrounds.
• An ability to plan, prioritize, multitask and time manage a high volume of work activity and work towards completion in a timely manner.
• Be able to maintain confidentially at all times.
• Have a basic understanding of Occupational Health & Safety.

How to apply:

Click https://www.pau.ac.pg/work-with-us/to view ‘Position Description’ and ‘Application Form’. Submit completed application form including a cover letter setting out your relevant experience to the core responsibilities of the role; and copies of educational qualification in a single file to [email protected] .

As an equal opportunity employer, PAU particularly encourages applications from women.

Application closes on Wednesday 15^th October, 2025