Director General (DG), Ministry of Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy (MISE), Kiribati

You will oversee more than 150 technical staff across four engineering departments, provide strategic direction, and lead the implementation of complex, multi-donor infrastructure projects. This is a unique opportunity to influence national development outcomes, build local capacity, and foster resilient infrastructure systems in one of the world’s most remote island nations. The role is fully embedded in the Ministry. Te KAI is managed by Tetra Tech International Development in partnership with DFAT and the Government of Kiribati.

• Guide policy development, cabinet papers, and technical briefs
• Represent MISE in high-level stakeholder engagements across government and donor partners
• Shape national policy, mentor engineering teams, and drive inclusive, climate-resilient infrastructure delivery.
• Lead transformative infrastructure development in the Pacific.
• Mentor and build capacity of local engineering teams
• Develop and implement national asset management strategies
• Provide strategic advice and oversight for large-scale infrastructure projects funded by DFAT, World Bank, Asia Development Bank, and others
• Lead MISE’s Engineering Services Division, overseeing technical design, cost planning, civil works, energy, water, sanitation, and IT units
• Integrate cross-cutting themes including gender equality, disability inclusion, child protection, and climate resilience

Open to international applicants

You are a seasoned infrastructure leader with deep experience in civil engineering and project management in Pacific or remote island contexts. You bring strategic vision, technical expertise, and a collaborative leadership style that empowers teams and drives results.

• Proven ability to manage complex projects and contracts, including procurement
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience working in multicultural and resource-constrained environments
• Tertiary qualifications in Infrastructure Engineering and Management or Civil and Water Engineering
• You will be a Chartered Engineer (or equivalent), and be able to sign off and/or certify engineering drawings
• Significant experience in infrastructure development and construction oversight (approximately 10 years would be preferred)
• Cover letter (max two pages) outlining your suitability for the position and alignment with the selection criteria

Working at Tetra Tech International Development means working within a values-led organisation that invests in flexible work environments built on trust, safety and well-being. Through unified systems, flexible and supportive workplaces, we provide the foundations required for our team to enjoy the work they do and deliver value every day. Read more about our culture, purpose and values here.

• Competitive remuneration package, in country role with regional return flights included in package