JOB DESCRIPTION

• Commencing in January 2026 
• Contract duration: Up to December 2026, with a possible extension
• Based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
• Open to all candidates

About the Program 

The Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE) Program is a five-year initiative funded by the Government of Australia to support the Government of Papua New Guinea in providing better access to quality education for PNG’s children.

Launched on July 1, 2022, PIE focuses on early-grade education in Enga, Sandaun, Central, and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, driving policy and systemic reforms to create real, lasting change.

Expected End-of-Investment Outcomes (EOIO):

1. Increased Access and Retention – More children (girls, boys, and children with disabilities) enrol and stay in school in selected provinces using sustainable, replicable approaches.
2. Improved Teaching and Learning – Targeted provinces adopt sustainable and scalable methods to enhance early-grade teaching and learning quality.
3. Systemic Change – Evidence of education sector improvements that enhance early-grade education delivery.

By testing, implementing, and monitoring innovative solutions, PIE is ensuring that every child gets the education they deserve.

Learning Enhancement and Access Program

As part of PIE, the Learning Enhancement and Access Program (LEAP) is being mobilised to improve the quality of early childhood education and pre-primary to Grade 2 (Prep-G2) levels in selected provinces. LEAP consists of four core components:

1. Preparing children to be ready to learn through Early Childhood Education (ECE): Supporting existing ECE centers to meet national quality standards.
2. Supporting teachers to teach effectively: Providing teaching and learning materials, delivering in-service teacher training and ongoing support, and upgrading teacher qualifications, focusing on preparatory to grade 2 teachers and head teachers in targeted provinces.
3. Modernizing the infrastructure and management of the education sector: Equipping the Ministry of Education with high-quality data management systems, piloting a national learning assessment system, and financing refurbishments to school infrastructure.
4. Project management, monitoring & evaluation, and capacity-building: Ensuring effective implementation, monitoring, evaluations, and capacity-building.

LEAP target locations: Provinces of Eastern Highlands, Simbu, Morobe, Madang, Milne Bay, East New Britain, New Ireland, and National Capital District.

About the Opportunity

Procurement Specialist Recruitment

To bring this transformational initiative to life, the National Department of Education (NDoE) is assembling a high-performing Project Management Unit and seeking a skilled Procurement Specialist to join the team!

To ensure seamless project preparation and implementation, a Project Preparation Grant (PPG), in partnership with PIE funding, will kickstart key activities for LEAP[1] in 2025.  LEAP will be financed by US$100 million in International Development Association loan, an additional US$50 million from OPEC, and an Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade grant worth USD 9.7million, resourcing the program through to October 6, 2031.

You will:

• Manage all procurement activities in line with World Bank guidelines.
• Ensure efficient sourcing of essential education resources and infrastructure.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to streamline procurement processes.
• Play a key role in delivering lasting improvements in early grade education.

The initial contract will be for 12 months, funded through PIE program.

• Subject to satisfactory performance, the contract may be extended under the LEAP through a GoPNG contract.
• LEAP will be implemented by NDoE in collaboration with Provincial Divisions of Education over five years, beginning in 2026.

This is your chance to ensure a stronger foundation for learning and leave a lasting legacy for PNG’s children.

Apply now and be part of the team that’s building a brighter future!

Key responsibilities 

• Procurement Strategy & Market Research – Lead the preparation or update of the Project’s Procurement Strategy for Development (PPSD) in line with World Bank regulations, with a strong focus on market analysis to identify potential bidders for project contracts.
• Procurement Planning & Scheduling – Develop and maintain an up-to-date Procurement Plan using the World Bank’s STEP system, ensuring realistic scheduling of procurement activities.
• Monitoring & Reporting – Establish a streamlined procurement monitoring system, track procurement progress monthly, and address delays proactively with the Project Manager.
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) – Define and monitor procurement KPIs, generating insights to support informed decision-making (e.g., percentage of contracts procured on schedule).
• Procurement Documentation – Prepare and ensure quality assurance for Procurement Notices, Documents, Evaluation Reports, and clearance requests in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Performance Tracking – Monitor procurement performance across projects, using STEP data and structured reporting templates, ensuring timely and efficient implementation.
• Capacity Building – Develop and execute a Capacity Building Strategy for procurement staff.

Key working relationships

• NDoE, in particular First Assistant Secretary Procurement Division
• LEAP Project Manager
• LEAP Project Management Unit
• Provincial Project Offices
• PIE Team Lead
• Australian High Commission
• The World Bank

About You 

For applications to be considered, a response to the key selection criteria (About You) below must be provided. 

Mandatory:

1. MA/MS (An advanced degree with a major in relevant discipline e.g., Engineering, Law, Procurement, Finance, Business, Project Management or Commerce), or other relevant qualifications.
2. Considerable proven practical experience (minimum 10 years of recent and relevant procurement assignments).

Desirable Criteria – Candidates that meet the following criteria will be considered favorably:

1. Procurement Expertise – Proven experience in managing procurement processes in accordance with international donor-funded project guidelines (e.g., World Bank, ADB).
2. Consulting Firm Procurement – Experience in hiring and managing consulting firms, including preparing Requests for Proposals (RFPs), evaluating bids, and negotiating contracts.
3. Contract Management – Strong knowledge of contract negotiation, administration, and compliance, ensuring adherence to procurement policies and procedures.
4. Financial and Risk Management – Ability to assess procurement risks, maintain financial accountability, and ensure cost-effective use of project funds.
5. Regulatory Compliance – Familiarity with public procurement laws in Papua New Guinea and international procurement standards.
6. Stakeholder Engagement – Strong communication and coordination skills to work effectively with government agencies, development partners, and suppliers.
7. Project Experience – Prior involvement in large-scale development projects, preferably in the education sector or public infrastructure.
9. Qualifications – A qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A recognized procurement certification (e.g., CIPS, PMP, or equivalent) is highly desirable.

Bonus: Experience working on World Bank-funded projects is a strong advantage

How to Apply

• Please submit your application online; attach your cover letter and CV as a single document, addressing how you meet the key selection criteria of this role. 
• Applications must be submitted personally by individuals only. Applications submitted by a company or organisation will not be accepted. 
• The successful applicant will be engaged through an employment agreement determined by Abt.
• Applicants must attach a valid Police Clearance Certificate obtained within 12 months from date their application is submitted.

We welcome and thank all applications; however, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Closing Date: 9 January 2026 (Midday, local time) #LI-AUSBRIT

Abt Global is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to upholding high standards of Child Protection, Anti-bribery and Fraud Protection.

We encourage applications from experienced and capable women, and people with disabilities.