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

About the University

The Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment (PNGUNRE) is a specialised national institution mandated to advance education, research, innovation, and community engagement in sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, environmental stewardship, and applied development disciplines.

PNGUNRE operates across three campuses:

• Vudal Main Campus (East New Britain Province) – home to core teaching and research programs
• Takubar Campus (Kokopo) – host of Postgraduate Programs and the Department of Business & Economics
• Popondetta Campus (Oro Province) – focused on agricultural training and community development initiatives

The University emphasises practice-oriented teaching, field-based learning, and strong industry collaboration, producing graduates who are work-ready and capable of contributing meaningfully to sustainable development outcomes across Papua New Guinea.

About the Role

PNGUNRE invites applications from suitably qualified and motivated candidates for appointment as Technical Officer (Silviculture) within the Department of Forestry, School of Natural Resources.

The position is based at the Vudal Campus, East New Britain Province, and provides essential technical support for silvicultural teaching, research, and extension activities. The role supports the planning, implementation, and monitoring of silvicultural operations, contributing to sustainable forest management and applied forestry training at PNGUNRE.

The appointee will report directly to the Head of Department, Forestry.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the establishment, maintenance, and monitoring of experimental plots, nurseries, and plantations used for teaching and research.
• Provide technical assistance for silviculture-related research projects, including field data collection, basic analysis, and reporting.
• Assist academic staff during practical classes, field demonstrations, and student projects.
• Participate in community outreach and extension activities, providing technical advice on sustainable silvicultural practices.
• Maintain and manage forestry tools, equipment, and facilities used in silvicultural operations.
• Prepare technical reports, maintain accurate field records, and contribute to departmental documentation.
• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety requirements during field and laboratory work.
• Perform other duties as reasonably directed by the immediate supervisor.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in forestry, Silviculture, or a closely related discipline from a recognised institution.
• Minimum of two (2) to three (3) years’ practical experience in silvicultural operations, nursery management, or plantation establishment.
• Working knowledge of tropical forestry species, nursery techniques, plantation management, and forest regeneration methods.
• Ability to support basic research activities, including data collection and field-based monitoring.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with students, staff, and community stakeholders.
• Competence in Microsoft Office and forestry-related software for data recording and reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in team-based environments.
• Willingness to operate in remote and field-based settings.
• Strong sense of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to sustainable forest management.

Salary Range

Technical Officer
K35,983.00 – K43,922.00
(plus applicable allowances and benefits)

Why Join PNGUNRE?

This role offers the opportunity to support hands-on forestry education, applied research, and community-based forest management initiatives in Papua New Guinea. PNGUNRE provides a supportive working environment that values practical expertise, field engagement, and sustainable development impact.

Application Details

Interested applicants should submit:

• A cover letter addressing suitability for the role
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae
• Certified copies of academic qualifications
• Names and contact details of three (3) referees

Applications must be addressed to:

The Manager – Human Resources
Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment
Vudal Campus, East New Britain Province
Email: [email protected]

Closing Date: 06 March 2026

PNGUNRE is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates.