Job Announcement
Carnivore Ecology Officer

The WWF(World Wide Fund for Nature), an international conservation organization, is seeking a competent and highly motivated Carnivore Ecology Officer, to be based in Masasi, Mtwara

The Carnivore Ecology Officer will play a crucial role in the implementation of WWF-RLS’s special species conservation program. This position will focus on securing the survival of lions and maintaining their keystone function in the Southern Nyerere Wildlife Corridor (SNWC). The officer will be responsible for establishing an information base, restoring demographics, addressing human-carnivore conflicts, and promoting community-led initiatives for sustainable conservation efforts particularly on lions’ populations

Major duties and responsibilities:

• Establish and maintain an information base and ecological monitoring framework for lion populations in Nyerere NP and southern WMA/VLFR.
• Conduct field surveys, data collection, and analysis to monitor lion demographics, movements, and habitat use.
• Develop and implement strategies to restore lion demographics and enhance connectivity within the SNWC.
• Develop and implement conflict mitigation strategies in collaboration with local communities and stakeholders.
• Promote the growth of lion populations to near capacity in SNWC to benefit communities through eco-tourism and potential Credits.
• Initiate and support a community-led carnivore monitoring initiative to sustain restored lion populations.
• Work with local communities to develop eco-tourism initiatives that support lion conservation and provide economic benefits.
• Conduct outreach and educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of lion conservation.

Required Qualifications and skills:

BSc in Wildlife Ecology, Conservation Biology, Zoology, or a related field. At least 3 years of experience in wildlife conservation, with a focus on carnivores. Proven experience in ecological research, field surveys, and data analysis. Strong understanding of human-wildlife conflict issues and mitigation strategies. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience in community engagement and education. Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Proficiency in GIS, remote sensing, and ecological modeling software is an advantage. Fluency in English and Swahili.