CAR: Research and Community Manager


Feb 23, 2017 | Chinko Project
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The Chinko Project sustainably manages a nature reserve in the heart of Africa – one of the last pristine mosaics of wooded savannah and tropical lowland rainforest deep within the Central African Republic. This project goes beyond conservation, it represents hope for stability and governance in one of the poorest regions on earth with an endless history of corruption, depletion of natural resources and military conflicts.

The Chinko Project is recruiting a Research and Community Manager to lead the wildlife and habitat research department and the community development program.

The Chinko Project is managing a 17,600Km2 nature reserve in the remote south eastern part of the Central African Republic. This is a highly complex and unpredictable operation, taking place in a conflict zone. Based at the Main camp in the Chinko reserve, the research and community manager will be leading a team of 16 local habitat/wildlife researchers and a team of 4 community program staff.

There are no permanent settlements in the reserve, but community activities such a support to health clinics, local schools and community meetings takes place in villages surrounding the protected area. The Manager will visit these communities on a regular basis and maintain good relations with community leaders and members of the community team. The community program also includes building relationships with transhumant herders in the area, and find ways to promote dialogue and collaboration between different communities and life forms.

The two programs will be covered by one manager during the first 12 months, but will then be split into two separate programs, with two managers. The successful incumbent will oversee this process and cover the program where she/he is strongest.

Areas of responsibility

  • Planning and managing weekly, monthly and annual transect routes.
  • Organize regular debriefings with research teams.
  • Ensure data entry and habitat/wildlife surveys.
  • Publish relevant reports and papers about wildlife and habitat developments in the Chinko Project Area.
  • Responsible for all collaring activities and annual wildlife counts, including lion, chimpanzee and other surveys.
  • Maintaining and building relationships with local leaders, transhumant herders and communities surrounding the reserve.
  • Provide regular updates to major donors such as USAID, European Union and private foundations.

Capabilities, competencies and experience required

  • Experience with community development work, preferably in conflict/post-conflict environments.
  • Professional experience in habitat and wildlife management.
  • Demonstrated creativity, ability to apply innovative thinking and problem solving skills.
  • Degree in a field in relation to the position.
  • Excellent analytical, presentation, communication and reporting skills.
  • Ability to work well in unstable security environments.
  • Culturally sensitive, able and interested in working with a multi-ethnic team.
  • Must be able to work independently while being a team player.
  • Professional level of oral and written English and French.

We offer

  • 2 years contract. (three months’ duty - one month off, rotation schedule).
  • Evacuation and medical insurance.
  • All expenses paid, including housing, meals, visa, transport and international flights.
  • Competitive salary.

About Chinko Project

The Chinko Project sustainably manages a nature reserve in the heart of Africa – one of the last pristine mosaics of wooded savannah and tropical lowland rainforest deep within the Central African Republic. This project goes beyond conservation, it represents hope for stability and governance in one of the poorest regions on earth with an endless history of corruption, depletion of natural resources and military conflicts.

We are passionate about Central Africa – for both its wildlife and people – and believe there is a way for both to coexist. The Chinko Project, as a governing body, supports local communities, protects the ecosystem, and maintains economic value through tourism – providing the key to a sustainable future for this thriving ecosystem. More information on: www.chinkoproject.com

Chinko Project is a proud member of African Parks

How to apply:

Send your CV and cover letter to jobs@chinkoproject.com Recruitment on rolling basis and the position will be filled once we have the right candidate.