Field Ecologist

Job description

^Overview

^{Musekese Conservation works within the Greater Kafue Ecosystem to support biodiversity conservation through a combination of resource protection, community engagement, and ecological monitoring. The Research & Monitoring programme generates high-quality data to inform conservation management and decision-making across the landscape.}

^{The Field Ecologist supports the implementation of this programme through field-based data collection, data management, and quality control. Working under the guidance of the Research & Site Manager, and alongside the rest of the research team, the role contributes to monitoring activities including intensive monitoring of collared large carnivores, camera trapping, herbivore transects, and vehicle-based search & encounter surveys.}

^{The position requires confident driving skills in 4×4 and off-road conditions, a structured approach to data collection and handling, and the ability to work effectively in remote field conditions. The Field Ecologist will also support the training and supervision of intern field staff, contributing to overall team capacity and maintaining high data quality standards.}

^{Key Responsibilities}

^{Field Data Collection}

• ^{Support and lead assigned research drives and monitoring activities in line with approved plans and SOPs}
• ^{Accurately record sightings, survey effort, and field activities using SMART and associated tools}
• ^{Collect high-quality photographic data for identification purposes}
• ^{Collect and manage citizen science data from partner lodges}

^{Data Entry & Management}

• ^{Enter, clean, ID and manage field data in line with organisational protocols}
• ^{Ensure all datasets are complete, accurate, and submitted within required timelines}
• ^{Conduct first-level quality control on all data prior to submission}

^{Supervision & Training}

• ^{Train, mentor, and supervise Intern Field Ecologists based at our field camp in Kafue National Park}
• ^{Ensure adherence to field and data collection protocols}
• ^{Review and verify intern-collected data prior to submission}
• ^{Provide ongoing feedback to support skill development and data quality improvement}

^{Identification Support}

• ^{Support preparation of identification images and associated records}
• ^{Compile and organise sighting and image data for monthly identification reviews}
• ^{Assist in maintaining updated records of individual animals, including traits and notable events}

^{Ad hoc support and logistics}

• ^{Support the day-to-day administrative and logistical needs of the field camp when required}
• ^{Assist in presenting Musekese Conservation’s work to donors, partners, and lodge guests}
• ^{Provide support for transport logistics, including staff movements and field transfers}

^{Key Skills & Competencies}

• ^{Strong fieldwork skills and ability to operate in remote environments}
• ^{High attention to detail and accuracy in data recording and management}
• ^{Experience or familiarity with data collection tools (e.g. SMART, GPS, Excel)}
• ^{Basic wildlife identification skills, with interest in large carnivore ID work}
• ^{Strong organisational and time management skills}
• ^{Effective communication and teamwork}
• ^{Ability to mentor and support junior staff}
• ^{Adaptability and problem-solving in dynamic field conditions}

^{Minimum Requirements}

• ^{Zambian resident}
• ^{BSc degree or diploma in Wildlife Management, Ecology, Conservation, or a related field}
• ^{At least 1–2 years of relevant field experience}
• ^{Valid driver’s license and ability to drive in off-road conditions}
• ^{Experience working in remote field environments is highly desirable}

^{How to Apply}

^{If you are interested in this position, please submit your CV and a cover letter to jobs@musekeseconservation.org with the subject line: [Your Name] – Application for Field Ecologist}

^{Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.}

^{Applications will close on Monday, 27th April}

Location: Kafue National Park and Mumbwa GMA (dry season), Mumbwa or Lusaka (wet season)