Joji Sakaraia Malodali
Suva,Fiji
Summary
Results-driven Seismologist and Technical Officer with a Master’s degree in Disaster Management (Japan) and hands-on experience at the Fiji National Tsunami Warning Center. Skilled in real-time seismic monitoring, earthquake analysis, and tsunami warning operations, with ability to interpret geophysical data and support rapid emergency response. Experienced in operating and maintaining seismic networks, contributing to hazard assessments, and supporting community preparedness initiatives. Proven ability to work effectively under pressure in 24/7 operational environments while collaborating with national and international stakeholders.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Technical Officer / Seismologist
Mineral Resources Department
Fiji
01.2022 - Current
- Monitor real-time seismic activity using advanced systems (e.g., SeisComP) to detect and analyze earthquakes across the Pacific region
- Interpret seismic data to determine earthquake parameters (magnitude, depth, location) for rapid assessment
- Support tsunami detection and warning operations, including evaluation of tsunami generation potential
- Disseminate timely alerts and technical information to government agencies, stakeholders, and the public
- Operate and maintain seismic and sea-level monitoring networks to ensure continuous data availability
- Contribute to the development and updating of tsunami evacuation maps and community response plans
- Participate in national and regional disaster preparedness training, drills, and workshops
- Assist in post-event analysis and reporting for earthquakes and tsunami events
- Collaborate with international agencies (e.g., Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, regional partners)
- Provide technical support and training to staff and stakeholders on seismic and tsunami monitoring systems
Technical Officer II Electronics
Geological Services Division - Seismology Section
Fiji
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Taking the lead role in the upgrading of Fiji’s LIBRA II seismic VSAT system
- Attend to configuration and troubleshooting of non-operational tsunami sirens.
- Taking the lead role in attending to quarterly VSAT station visits within the Fiji region in maintaining stations for quality data to the observatory.
- Attending to CTBTO station in Monasavu (MSVF) upon any request from counterparts in Vienna.
- Analysis of seismic events through monitoring software and providing information to the general public.
- Earthquake and Tsunami hazards risk assessment
- Monitoring of earthquake activities and issuance of warnings for any potential tsunami threat
- Interpretation of seismic data in determining earthquake active zones of Fiji using MapInfo and GIS software
- Archiving data and seismic records on a provided database storage
- Upgrading of seismic monitoring software and hardware
- Outreach to coastal communities for earthquake and tsunami awareness
- Team Leader in the 24/7 Earthquake and Tsunami monitoring shift team.
Acting Technical Officer II Electronics
Geological Services Division - Seismology Section
Fiji
01.2017 - 01.2020
- Analysis of earthquake data by using DIMAS software
- Earthquake and Tsunami hazards risk assessment
- Monitoring of earthquake activities and issuance of warnings for potential tsunami threat
- Interpretation of seismic data in determining earthquake active zones of Fiji using MapInfo and GIS software
- Archiving of ring-buffer data and seismic records on a soft and hard disk
- Upgrading of seismic monitoring software and hardware
- Outreach to coastal communities for earthquake and tsunami awareness
- Team Leader in the 24/7 Earthquake and Tsunami monitoring shift team.
- Provision of seismicity maps upon request from the department and external stakeholders.
- Liaison with Nanometrics counterpart with regards to any software/ hardware assistance.
- Activation and testing of Tsunami sirens.
- Conducting presentations to schools during school visits and Tsunami Day.
Education
Master of Science - Tsunami Disaster Mitigation
GRIPS University
Japan10-2022
Diploma in Electrical And Electronics Engineering - Electrical, Electronics And Communications Engineering
Fiji National University
Fiji2010
Skills
- Disaster Management & Operational Skills
- Emergency response coordination
- Risk assessment and hazard analysis
- Tsunami evacuation planning and mapping
- Situation awareness and rapid decision-making under pressure
- Incident reporting and communication during crises Communication & Collaboration
- Clear communication of technical information to non-technical audiences
- Stakeholder coordination (government agencies, regional partners)
- Public awareness and training support
- Team collaboration in high-pressure environments Analytical & Professional Skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Time management and shift-based operations
- Ability to work under pressure (24/7 monitoring environment)
- Adaptability and continuous learning
Websites
Languages
English
Interests
- Adventure Travel
- Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination
- Participating in cultural exchange programs
- Music
Timeline
Technical Officer / Seismologist
Mineral Resources Department
01.2022 - Current
Technical Officer II Electronics
Geological Services Division - Seismology Section
01.2020 - 01.2022
Acting Technical Officer II Electronics
Geological Services Division - Seismology Section
01.2017 - 01.2020
Master of Science - Tsunami Disaster Mitigation
GRIPS University
Diploma in Electrical And Electronics Engineering - Electrical, Electronics And Communications Engineering
Fiji National University