VSA is New Zealand’s largest and most experienced volunteer agency working in international development. At the moment we have two interesting and rewarding engineering opportunities working with communities in the Pacific. The first of these focuses on developing groundwater systems in support of water security in Vanuatu. The second role is based in Fiji and involves a land rehabilitation project in Nauru.

All VSA assignments are driven by requests from overseas partner organisations for Kiwi volunteers with specific skillsets – so we only work where our support has been requested. VSA offers short and long-term opportunities that offer big personal and professional development rewards for volunteers. VSA covers flights, accommodation, insurance and a number of other costs for volunteers and their partners. A living allowance is also provided during assignments.

Currently there are two positions:

Hydrogeologist (groundwater) Adviser

Duration: 1 year
Location: Port Vila, Vanuatu

Work alongside the Department of Water Resources to strengthen hydrogeological capability and support community resilience to water-related risks.

Approximately 70% of the rural population is reliant on rainwater harvesting systems to meet daily water needs; this exposes the population to significant climate risks such low rainfall and drought.

In this dynamic assignment, you will be working as part of a dedicated team to investigate groundwater supplies, develop a water information database and model, and design effective solutions. You will provide training and mentoring support to build technical WASH skills of department staff, which will enable them to confidently manage groundwater and WASH activities.

We are looking for a volunteer with:

Bachelor’s degree in geology, earth sciences, hydrogeology, environmental science, engineering discipline with emphasis on hydrology or hydrogeology
At least three years’ relevant experience in hydrogeology including field investigation, groundwater modelling, or construction contract administration
Experience in providing on-the-job training and mentoring

* This assignment is a partnership between Engineers Without Borders New Zealand (EWBNZ) and VSA. The successful candidate will provide Provincial Water Offices with access to Engineers Without Borders New Zealand (EWB) Technical Support Hub.

Please click the following link to see full details of this assignment and how to apply: https://vsa.org.nz/volunteer/volunteer-vacancies/hydrogeologist-groundwater-adviser-40870/

VSA volunteers receive a living allowance and accommodation, insurance, and medical costs are provided. Travel arrangements are organised and funded by VSA along with other costs.

Land Development Adviser

Duration: 2 years
Location: Suva, Fiji with regular trips to Nauru

Share your engineering expertise and help develop Nauru’s large-scale land rehabilitation project.

The Government of the Republic of Nauru is working on a project to rehabilitate the entire Topside (16km2) of the island. The land, once rehabilitated, will be utilised for major developments such as residential housing, local food production, water reservoir, and solar energy.

You will work alongside Nauru government staff and GEM (Geoscience, Energy and Maritime Division) staff to review and improve current Nauru Land Rehabilitation proposal as well as built capacity to provide advice on the project. You will also consult with local communities and ensure that social license is provided to proceed with the project. Your advice and support will also help secure resources to begin the project.

This assignment offers a rewarding opportunity to ensure better outcomes for the people of Nauru.

We are looking for a volunteer with:

• Bachelor of Engineering in civil, development, or geotechnical engineering
• At least 5 years of work experience in construction activities, geotechnical assessments, land reclamation/rehabilitation or a related engineering field
• Proven experience in engaging professionally with multiple stakeholders
• Previous experience in planning and implementing large scale projects
• Excellent computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Office and other relevant software

Please click the following link to see full details of this assignment and how to apply: https://vsa.org.nz/volunteer/volunteer-vacancies/land-development-adviser-41040/

VSA volunteers receive a living allowance and accommodation, insurance, and medical costs are provided. Travel arrangements are organised and funded by VSA along with other costs.

Many thanks,

Kelly Agassiz
Connecting people – Transforming Lives
People & Capability
Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) – Te Tūao Tāwāhi
Tel: +64 4 472 5759 | Web: http://www.vsa.org.nz/
77 Thorndon Quay, PO Box 12246, Wellington 6144, NEW ZEALAND