Manage laboratory operations for the Pacific Community (SPC) in New Caledonia. We are hiring a Laboratory Coordinator to oversee logistics, safety, and technical support. Apply by 1 Mar 2026.
Job Title: Laboratory Coordinator
| Organization | Pacific Community (SPC) |
| Division | Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystems (FAME) |
| Location | Noumea, New Caledonia |
| Salary Range | SDR 3,350 – 4,092 per month (Tax-Free in NC) |
| Contract Duration | 3 Years (Renewable) |
| Application Deadline | 01 March 2026 (11:00 PM Noumea Time) |
Organizational Context
The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organization in the Pacific region. Our Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystems (FAME) division is renowned for its innovation in fisheries science and marine conservation.
We are recruiting a Laboratory Coordinator to oversee the operational backbone of our scientific facilities in Noumea. This includes our Taxonomy, Genetics, Sclerochronology, Histology, and Wet laboratories. This is a critical support role ensuring that our scientific teams operate in a safe, efficient, and well-equipped environment.
Position Mandate
Reporting to the FAME leadership, you will manage all logistical, technical, and organizational aspects of the laboratories. Your mandate is to maintain operational excellence, ensuring that equipment is functional, safety protocols are enforced, and supply chains are uninterrupted.
You will act as the central coordinator between scientific heads of laboratories and the logistical services of SPC, managing procurement, maintenance contracts, and facility improvements.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory Operations & Safety
- Coordinate the organization and layout of laboratory spaces, optimizing workflow and ergonomics.
- Enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety rules, conducting regular risk assessments in collaboration with the Health and Safety Officer.
- Lead induction and training for new staff on equipment use and safety protocols.
- Ensure laboratories are clean, organized, and compliant with Quality Management Systems.
Logistics & Procurement
- Manage the end-to-end procurement process for reagents, consumables, and high-value equipment.
- Oversee international shipments (sea and air freight), handling customs formalities and supplier relations.
- Establish a centralized stock management system using digital inventory tools and barcoding.
Equipment Maintenance
- Monitor preventive and corrective maintenance contracts for critical scientific instruments (microscopes, centrifuges, freezers).
- Schedule technical interventions and maintain rigorous maintenance records to ensure service compliance.
- Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate repairs with external experts.
Facilities Management
- Supervise laboratory refurbishment projects, coordinating with contractors and internal maintenance teams.
- Monitor technical infrastructure (HVAC, power, network) to ensure stable conditions for sensitive experiments.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for an experienced laboratory manager who combines technical scientific knowledge with strong logistical acumen.
Essential Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Laboratory Management or equivalent knowledge.
- Experience: Minimum 7 years of demonstrated experience in laboratory operations, logistics, or technical project coordination.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in stock management software, inventory systems, and digital tools.
- Languages: Excellent written and spoken French is mandatory, along with full comprehension of English.
Core Competencies
- Organization: Ability to manage complex logistical flows and maintenance schedules.
- Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to collaborate with diverse scientific teams and external suppliers.
- Cultural Awareness: Knowledge of Pacific Island countries is an advantage.
Remuneration & Benefits
- Salary: Monthly salary ranging from SDR 3,350 to 4,092 (approx. 4,489 – 5,483 USD). Salaries are currently tax-free in New Caledonia.
- Benefits: Housing support, relocation grants, airfares, health/life insurance, and education allowances for eligible dependents.
- Leave: 25 working days of annual leave plus access to the Provident Fund.
How to Apply
Closing Date: 01 March 2026
To apply, please submit your application online via the SPC careers portal. Hard copies will not be accepted.
Submission Requirements:
- Updated Resume.
- Cover Letter detailing your skills and interest.
- Screening Questions Responses:
- Approach to safety protocols.
- Strategies for inventory management.
- Steps for accurate data collection.
SPC is an equal-opportunity employer committed to cultural and gender diversity. Priority is given to Pacific Island professionals.