Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Interests
Timeline
Generic
Shweta Kumar

Shweta Kumar

Biosecurity Officer

Summary

As a dedicated Biosecurity Officer with over 4 years of hands-on experience in the field, I am well-versed in safeguarding public health and the environment against biological threats. My academic background includes a Bachelor's degree in Science,with a major in Biology and Chemistry, and a Postgraduate degree in Chemistry, providing me with a strong foundation in the sciences. My professional journey began with a year of valuable experience as a Lab Analyst, where I honed my analytical and quality assurance skills. Building on this foundation,I transitioned into the dynamic field of biosecurity, consistently demonstrating my commitment to ensure highest standards of safety and protection.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Biosecurity Officer

Biosecurity Authority of Fiji
Suva
09.2021 - Current
  • Based at Biosecurity Operation Section
  • Review and analyze manifests, shipping documents, cargo declarations, passenger lists, and related paperwork to identify any discrepancies, omissions, or potential biosecurity risks.
  • Verify that all shipments and passengers comply with biosecurity laws, regulations, and import/export requirements. This includes checking for permits, licenses, and certificates as needed.
  • Collaborate with biosecurity officers in other countries to facilitate the exchange of information and harmonize biosecurity efforts at international entry points.
  • Conduct physical inspections of cargo, baggage, or shipments when necessary. Using X-ray machines, scanners, or sniffer dogs to detect hidden biosecurity risks.
  • Assess the risk level of incoming goods, materials, or passengers based on the information provided in the manifests. High-risk items may require more thorough inspections or quarantine measures.
  • Conduct routine inspections and audits of facilities, equipment, and procedures to assess and improve biosecurity measures.
  • Maintain records and databases of biosecurity-related information, such as incident reports, inspection findings, and surveillance data.
  • Ensure that biosecurity equipment, such as containment facilities, disinfection stations, and personal protective gear, is properly maintained and operational.
  • Manage quarantine facilities and procedures for isolating and assessing potentially infected or contaminated organisms, materials, or individuals.
  • Prepare reports and documentation related to biosecurity activities, incidents, and compliance for regulatory agencies and internal stakeholders.


Biosecurity Officer

Biosecurity Authority Of Fiji
Suva
05.2020 - 09.2021
  • Based at Trade Facilitation and Compliance Section
  • Conduct routine inspections and audits of facilities, equipment, and procedures to assess and improve biosecurity measures.
  • Collaborate with government agencies, research institutions, and other relevant organizations to share information, coordinate responses, and stay updated on emerging biosecurity threats.
  • Engage in public outreach and communication efforts to raise awareness about biosecurity risks and encourage community involvement in prevention and reporting.
  • Provide training and education to staff, stakeholders, and the public on biosecurity protocols, best practices, and the importance of compliance.
  • Advocate for policies and regulations that enhance biosecurity practices and protect public health, agriculture, and the environment.
  • Addressed public questions, complaints and requests and provided necessary assistance.
  • Created and managed project plans, timelines and budgets.
  • Devised and implemented processes and procedures to streamline operations.
  • Maintained database systems to track and analyze operational data.
  • Cultivated positive relationships with vendors to deliver timely and cost-effective supply of services and materials.
  • Conducted regular reviews of operations and identified areas for improvement.
  • Compliance with international agreements such as the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement under the World Trade Organization (WTO) to facilitate international trade.




Biosecurity Officer

Biosecurity Authority of Fiji
Nadi
02.2019 - 05.2020
  • Based at Biosecurity Operation Section
  • Verify that all shipments and passengers comply with biosecurity laws, regulations, and import/export requirements. This includes checking for permits, licenses, and certificates as needed.
  • Assess the risk level of incoming goods, materials, or passengers based on the information provided in the manifests. High-risk items may require more thorough inspections or quarantine measures.
  • Be vigilant for any signs of potential biosecurity threats, such as undeclared biological materials, invasive species, or infectious diseases that may be associated with cargo or travelers.
  • Collaborate and communicate with other government agencies, customs officials, and stakeholders to share information and coordinate responses to biosecurity concerns.
  • Conduct physical inspections of cargo, baggage, or shipments when necessary. This may include using X-ray machines, scanners, or sniffer dogs to detect hidden biosecurity risks.
  • Maintain detailed records of inspections, findings, and actions taken. Prepare reports and documentation for regulatory purposes and potential enforcement actions.
  • Collaborate with biosecurity officers in other countries to facilitate the exchange of information and harmonize biosecurity efforts at international entry points.
  • Implement biosecurity measures to minimize the risk of accidental introduction or spread of biological threats, including proper waste disposal, cleaning, and decontamination procedures.
  • Ensure that biosecurity equipment, such as containment facilities, disinfection stations, and personal protective gear, is properly maintained and operational.
  • Prepare reports and documentation related to biosecurity activities, incidents, and compliance for regulatory agencies and internal stakeholders.

Laboratory Analyst/Quality Assurance Analyst

IXOM T/a Central Pacific Chemical PTE Limited
Lami, Suva
12.2017 - 02.2019
  • Carry out quantitative analysis of liquid chlorine.
  • Assisted in ordering laboratory supplies and necessities to maintain appropriate level of inventory.
  • Cleaned and removed biohazard waste and inventory within laboratory to comply with health and safety regulations.
  • Oversaw items in inventory and reordered before supplies diminished.
  • Trained new laboratory personnel to apply proper laboratory techniques and best practices.
  • Prepared reagents, media and solutions to use for laboratory testing and analysis.
  • Maintained safe, tidy and organized laboratory environment for accurate test results.
  • Monitored testing procedures to meet criteria and maintain quality control.
  • Inspected laboratory equipment to maintain good working condition for optimal results.
  • Performed testing and quality control using approved laboratory procedures and instrumentation.
  • Maintained documentation on tests performed in lab.
  • Environmental monitoring of effluents.

Part-time Facilitator- Tutor, Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
Suva
02.2017 - 06.2017
  • Prepare and set up laboratory equipment and materials for experiments and demonstrations.
  • Conduct hands-on experiments and demonstrations to illustrate scientific concepts.
  • Ensure the safety of students by providing guidance on proper laboratory techniques and the use of safety equipment.
  • Assist students in performing experiments, answering questions, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during experiments.
  • Enforce safety protocols and guidelines in the laboratory to ensure a safe learning environment.
  • In the event of accidents or emergencies, provide first aid assistance and report incidents to the appropriate authorities.
  • Assist science educators during lectures or classroom sessions by providing support, answering questions, and helping with presentations.
  • Collaborate with instructors to create engaging and interactive learning experiences.
  • Help students with understanding complex scientific theories or concepts.
  • Offer one-on-one or small-group tutoring sessions to students who require extra help in understanding scientific principles.
  • Provide guidance on lab reports, assignments, and projects.


Part-time Facilitator- Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
Suva
07.2016 - 11.2016
  • Prepare and set up laboratory equipment and materials for experiments and demonstrations.
  • Conduct hands-on experiments and demonstrations to illustrate scientific concepts.
  • Ensure the safety of students by providing guidance on proper laboratory techniques and the use of safety equipment.
  • Assist students in performing experiments, answering questions, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during experiments.
  • Enforce safety protocols and guidelines in the laboratory to ensure a safe learning environment.
  • In the event of accidents or emergencies, provide first aid assistance and report incidents to the appropriate authorities.
  • Assist science educators during lectures or classroom sessions by providing support, answering questions, and helping with presentations.
  • Collaborate with instructors to create engaging and interactive learning experiences.
  • Help students with understanding complex scientific theories or concepts.
  • Offer one-on-one or small-group tutoring sessions to students who require extra help in understanding scientific principles.
  • Provide guidance on lab reports, assignments, and projects.

Part-time Facilitator- Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
Suva
02.2016 - 06.2016
  • Prepare and set up laboratory equipment and materials for experiments and demonstrations.
  • Conduct hands-on experiments and demonstrations to illustrate scientific concepts.
  • Ensure the safety of students by providing guidance on proper laboratory techniques and the use of safety equipment.
  • Assist students in performing experiments, answering questions, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during experiments.
  • Enforce safety protocols and guidelines in the laboratory to ensure a safe learning environment.
  • In the event of accidents or emergencies, provide first aid assistance and report incidents to the appropriate authorities.
  • Assist science educators during lectures or classroom sessions by providing support, answering questions, and helping with presentations.
  • Collaborate with instructors to create engaging and interactive learning experiences.
  • Help students with understanding complex scientific theories or concepts.
  • Offer one-on-one or small-group tutoring sessions to students who require extra help in understanding scientific principles.
  • Provide guidance on lab reports, assignments, and projects.

Part-time Facilitator- Tutor, Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
Suva
07.2015 - 11.2015
  • Prepare and set up laboratory equipment and materials for experiments and demonstrations.
  • Conduct hands-on experiments and demonstrations to illustrate scientific concepts.
  • Ensure the safety of students by providing guidance on proper laboratory techniques and the use of safety equipment.
  • Assist students in performing experiments, answering questions, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during experiments.
  • Enforce safety protocols and guidelines in the laboratory to ensure a safe learning environment.
  • In the event of accidents or emergencies, provide first aid assistance and report incidents to the appropriate authorities.
  • Assist science educators during lectures or classroom sessions by providing support, answering questions, and helping with presentations.
  • Collaborate with instructors to create engaging and interactive learning experiences.
  • Help students with understanding complex scientific theories or concepts.
  • Offer one-on-one or small-group tutoring sessions to students who require extra help in understanding scientific principles.
  • Provide guidance on lab reports, assignments, and projects.

Part-time Facilitator- Tutor, Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
Suva
02.2015 - 06.2015
  • Prepare and set up laboratory equipment and materials for experiments and demonstrations.
  • Conduct hands-on experiments and demonstrations to illustrate scientific concepts.
  • Ensure the safety of students by providing guidance on proper laboratory techniques and the use of safety equipment.
  • Assist students in performing experiments, answering questions, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during experiments.
  • Enforce safety protocols and guidelines in the laboratory to ensure a safe learning environment.
  • In the event of accidents or emergencies, provide first aid assistance and report incidents to the appropriate authorities.
  • Assist science educators during lectures or classroom sessions by providing support, answering questions, and helping with presentations.
  • Collaborate with instructors to create engaging and interactive learning experiences.
  • Help students with understanding complex scientific theories or concepts.
  • Offer one-on-one or small-group tutoring sessions to students who require extra help in understanding scientific principles.
  • Provide guidance on lab reports, assignments, and projects.

Education

Post Graduate Diploma in Science - Science – Chemistry

The University of The South Pacific
Suva, Fiji Islands
02.2015 - 06.2017

Bachelor of Science - Biology/ Chemistry

University of The South Pacific
Suva, Fiji Islands
07.2010 - 06.2014

Skills

Communication: Excellent ability to communicate to colleagues efficiently and effectivelyundefined

Interests

Singing, dancing, travelling, meeting new people, reading, Sudoku, chess, baking, squash, voluntary social work, swimming and photography

Timeline

Biosecurity Officer

Biosecurity Authority of Fiji
09.2021 - Current

Biosecurity Officer

Biosecurity Authority Of Fiji
05.2020 - 09.2021

Biosecurity Officer

Biosecurity Authority of Fiji
02.2019 - 05.2020

Laboratory Analyst/Quality Assurance Analyst

IXOM T/a Central Pacific Chemical PTE Limited
12.2017 - 02.2019

Part-time Facilitator- Tutor, Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
02.2017 - 06.2017

Part-time Facilitator- Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
07.2016 - 11.2016

Part-time Facilitator- Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
02.2016 - 06.2016

Part-time Facilitator- Tutor, Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
07.2015 - 11.2015

Part-time Facilitator- Tutor, Demonstrator, Marker

Pacific TAFE-University Of The South Pacific
02.2015 - 06.2015

Post Graduate Diploma in Science - Science – Chemistry

The University of The South Pacific
02.2015 - 06.2017

Bachelor of Science - Biology/ Chemistry

University of The South Pacific
07.2010 - 06.2014
Shweta KumarBiosecurity Officer