Fisheries Coordinator

Job description

ABOUT WEST LUNGA CONSERVATION PROJECT AND OUR CULTURE:
The West Lunga Conservation Project (WLCP) is a Zambian Registered Public Benefit Organisation working in the West Lunga Ecosystem (WLE) in the Northwestern Province of Zambia.  The mission of the organisation is to rehabilitate the ecological functions of the West Lunga Ecosystem and restore the complex of wildlife species that have become locally extinct or endangered, whilst preserving the integrity of the hydrological ecology and indigenous woodlands. This is a partnership project with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), Traditional Leaders and Community Governance Institutions.
The organisation works to achieve three main objectives:
a)       The natural resources of the WLE are well managed, with reducing drivers of ecosystem degradation;

b)      Effective conservation-based economies are developed, providing economic incentives for local communities to reduce drivers of ecosystem degradation and protect the WLE;

c)       Strong governance structures and partnerships are established to underpin effective and sustainable natural resource management.

WLCP are seeking professionals that align themselves with the goals of the organisation and will support the achievements of these objectives in conjunction with the existing team and our partners.

Find out more about us at: www.westlunga.org
JOB PURPOSE:
The Fisheries coordinator will collaborate closely with key stakeholders such as the Department of Fisheries, local government, fisher associations, riparian communities and serve as an interface between all fisheries stakeholders.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Fisheries Management:

1.Promoting sound fisheries governance by facilitating participatory approaches to fisheries management.
2.Work closely with government to ensure that fisheries management is consistent with provisions in the necessary natural resource management legislation.
3.Support knowledge generation and incorporation of fisheries science to ensure a rigorous evidence-based approach to management.
4.Incorporate information from regular assessments of fish stock status and aquatic habitats to inform management decisions.
5.Develop and implement fisheries management plans in collaboration with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
6.Development of fisheries management plans that describe the fisheries biophysical context and using the collected baseline socio-ecological information, outline key requirements for developing sustainable fisheries management initiatives in these fisheries.
7.Promote sustainable fishing practices and compliance with regulations and guidelines.
Stakeholder Engagement:

1.Work closely with local fishing communities to build capacity and enhance their participation in sustainable fisheries management.
2.Ensure that key fisheries stakeholders are consistently engaged and aware and supportive of fisheries activities.
3.Organize and facilitate training programs and workshops on sustainable fishing practices, conservation, and resource management.
4.Develop and maintain strong relationships with the Department of Fisheries, civic leaders, traditional leaders, fishing associations, and other relevant stakeholders.
5.Coordination of field activities including setup and implementation of fisheries co-management activities.
Monitoring and Evaluation:

1.Design and implement monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to track the progress and impact of fisheries management initiatives.
2.Prepare regular reports on fisheries status, management activities, and project outcomes for internal and external stakeholders.
3.Utilize data and feedback to adjust and improve management strategies as needed.
4.Organize and facilitate multi-stakeholder fisheries meetings for two-way feedback between stakeholders on fisheries management.
Policy and Legislation:

1.Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and other partners to advocate for policies and regulations that support sustainable fisheries management.
Project Management and Administration:

1.Oversee the planning, budgeting, and implementation of fisheries management projects and activities.
2.Ensure compliance with organizational policies, procedures, and donor requirements.
3.Manage project resources efficiently and effectively to achieve desired outcomes.
SPECIFIC JOB REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
•   A Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Science/Management or a related field.

•    Minimum of at least five (5) years of experience conceptualizing and implementing fisheries research or fisheries management projects.

•  Valid driver’s license.

• Valid coxswain ticket.

• Basic speaking and listening in local languages of Northwestern will be added advantage.
TECHNICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL SKILLS
Technical Skills:

•   Experience in financial planning and project management.

•   Experience implementing fisheries management projects in Zambia.

•   Strong knowledge of fisheries science, sustainable management practices, and conservation principles.

•  Knowledge of freshwater ecosystems/fisheries, with strengths in ecological and social research and/or fisheries management.

•   Familiarity with co-management or community based natural resource management principles and the provisions in Zambian fisheries legislation that facilitate this management approach.

•  Ability to drive a boat and understand navigating waterways with wildlife.

Personal Attributes:

•  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

•   Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

•   Community facilitation skills.

•   The ability to work independently or as part of a broader team in often remote and challenging environments for long periods of time.

•    Experience with engaging and working with local communities on conservation or natural resource management issues.

•   The ability to work well with people from different cultures and backgrounds.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
1.Email your CV, one page cover letter and contact details for three references to: info@westlunga.org on or before 19th September 2025

2. Indicate the subject line of the email: Job Application WLCP – Fisheries Coordinator

3.Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted