Research Officer Job in Kenya

Background: The Foundation is a dynamic international wildlife charity, devoted to compassionate conservation and animal welfare.  

The organization takes action worldwide to protect threatened species and stop individual animal suffering. The organization believes wildlife belongs in the wild and works to phase out zoos.  We rescue animals from lives of misery in tiny cages and give them lifetime care. 

The organization protects lions, elephants, tigers, gorillas, wolves, polar bears, dolphins, marine turtles and many more species in their natural habitat, working with local communities to help people and wildlife live together without conflict. 

Our high-profile campaigns change public attitudes, persuade decision-makers and get results.  Every year, the organization helps hundreds of thousands of animals.

The organization is looking for a dedicated Researcher to be based in Meru National park. Meru National Park is in Kenya’s northeast region, and was the setting for Joy Adamson’s famous book ‘The organization. 


This unique ecosystem, composed of mosaic pattern of natural habitats, supports a large population of wildlife species such as buffalo, elephants, lions, leopard, and rhino. 

To promote the conservation of this unique ecosystem and to ensure the security of the remaining habitat and the wildlife in it, the organization in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service supports critical activities in anti-poaching, community and livelihood support and in research.

Position Title: 
Research Officer
 
Geographical Area: Meru Conservation Area
 
Position Responsible to: Programme Officer
 
Positions Reporting to Job Title: BFF Driver(s) and Rangers
 
Salary: Negotiable

Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Undertake all the research projects in consultation with Programmes Officer;
  • Prepare detailed methodology roadmap for the assigned research activities;
  • Prepare detailed reports on all research findings and assist in the preparation of conference materials and other communications in relation to these findings;
  • Implement research findings in conjunction with the Programme Officer;
  • Establish, update and maintain database for the project’s activities in collaboration with GIS Officer
  • Engage in the Foundation’s conservation programmes and activities in Meru, including:
  1. Lion monitoring, 
  2. Outreach campaigns; and 
  3. De-snaring
  • Supervise, appraise and develop staff in positions reporting to the Job Title;
  • Assist in preparation of annual work plans and budgets for the project;
  • Ensure cost effective utilisation of resources;
  • Perform any other duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Programme Officer.
Required Qualifications:
  • A degree in a relevant discipline, preferably a first degree in natural resource management, ecology, environmental science, environmental education, or other relevant social science;
  • Early to mid-career professional seeking opportunities for capacity building and training on translating scientific research into action;
  • Fluent in written and spoken English and Kiswahili;
  • Minimum of 2 year working experience in environmental, social and/or natural resources management. Demonstrable skill in written and verbal communication in community and professional settings.
  • Strong desire to apply research to real world conservation problem-solving and to interact with experts from different disciplinary backgrounds in this capacity.
  • Knowledge of ecosystems and protected area management, nature and culture in conservation, stakeholder’s engagement, economic and social development issues as they relate in Kenya.
  • Be a citizen of Kenya less than 35 years;
  • Have a valid driving license (4 x4 experience an added advantage);
  • Willingness to be based in Meru Park and to adhere to the organization’s Foundation values: animal welfare and compassionate conservation;
  • Be in possession of a valid certificate of good conduct from Kenya Police.
Preferred Analytical Capabilities:
  • Capability of writing comprehensive reports;
  • Skills to see trends and patterns;
  • Being a leader to motivate other members;
  • Being persistent and self-confident;
  • Having teamwork abilities;
  • Being resourceful and creative;
  • Being flexible and able to work under pressure.
  • Having good math and literacy abilities.
  • Having competent use of computers packages particularly SPSS, Excel pivot tables.
How to Apply

If you have the required experience & skills to succeed and seek a challenging opportunity, please send your application letter including an up to date CV with 3 referees outlining how your skills best meet the position to quality2015jobs@gmail.com (Subject of the email should be the title of the POSITION APPLIED FOR + JOB REF)

If you are not interested in this opportunity today, please refer any friend or colleague you know that might suit the required profile.

Please DO NOT apply if you do not meet the requirements of the position. 

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

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Note: We do not charge any fees for receiving and reviewing applications or for interviews

The organization is an equal opportunity employer and committed to having a diverse workforce.