Consultancy Opportunity – Upgrading Cook Islands Biosecurity System 

PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) 

The PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) is seeking a qualified consultant or consultancy firm to upgrade the Cook Islands biosecurity system. This three-month assignment will enhance the existing biosecurity database to better manage growing data volumes, enable real-time reporting, support integration with national and regional systems, and improve alignment with international sanitary and phytosanitary standards. The consultancy will be undertaken remotely and in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. 

Suitably qualified national, regional and international consultants or consultancy firms with demonstrated experience in systems analysis, database development, systems integration and technical training are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to Pacific-based consultants. 

About the Role 

The Consultant will work closely with the Cook Islands Ministry of Agriculture Biosecurity Division, the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), and relevant stakeholders to assess, design and implement an upgraded biosecurity system that strengthens data management, reporting, compliance and operational capacity. 

The Consultant will review the current database and identify requirements; develop the system design and technical specifications; specify, procure, install and configure the necessary hardware; upgrade and test the database; and establish integration arrangements with relevant national and regional systems. The assignment will also include appropriate authentication, security, backup, performance and scalability measures. 

The successful Consultant will develop training materials, deliver training for biosecurity staff, support the system launch, and provide technical support following deployment. Key outputs will include an Inception Report and Workplan, an upgraded biosecurity system including hardware installation and database development, staff training, and a Final Report. 

The consultancy is expected to be undertaken from October to December 2026. The Consultant will report to the Trade in Goods Adviser at the PPIU and work closely with the Cook Islands Ministry of Agriculture Biosecurity Division throughout the assignment. 

Qualifications and Experience 

Applicants should possess: 

• A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or a related field. 

• A minimum of 6 years of experience in systems analysis, design, development and implementation of information systems. 

• Proven experience designing and implementing systems for government agencies, public health, border control or comparable environments. 

• Experience in database design, software development methodologies, systems integration, authentication and security measures. 

• Experience developing and delivering technical training programmes, together with strong analytical, problem-solving, technical writing and communication skills. 

• Experience with quarantine or similar regulatory and compliance systems, and experience delivering comparable activities in the Pacific, would be desirable. Applicants must be proficient in written and spoken English. 

How to Apply 

Interested consultants and consultancy firms are encouraged to apply through the PPIU website. Applicants should submit: 

• A technical proposal outlining their approach and methodology; 

• Curriculum Vitae (maximum 5 pages for lead consultant); 

• Contact details of three referees. 

A detailed Terms of Reference is available Here. 

Applications close at 12pm (Apia time) on Friday 2 October 2026. 

PPIU is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to child protection. We encourage applications from women, men and people living with disabilities.