Background

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) saves wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature.

 

WCS is an equal opportunity employer and seeks a Carnivore Research Assistant under the auspices of the Greater Ruaha-Katavi Landscape Program. This role provides technical support and oversight for carnivore monitoring activities, including spoor surveys and camera trapping, in collaboration with government agencies and other stakeholders.

 

Position Duration

This is a temporary position for the duration of Six (6) months on a Specific Task Contract:

(July 1^st to December 31^st, 2025)

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support the planning and implementation of carnivore studies in selected sites across the landscape.
• Conduct extensive fieldwork in remote and challenging environments
• Lead data collection and analysis for ecological surveys, specifically related to carnivore monitoring
• Produce regular activity reports documenting fieldwork, progress and challenges
• Manage and sort survey and camera trap data
• Assist with preparing budgets and work plans for field activities

General

 

• Actively embody the values of WCS by representing the organization with professionalism and adhering to the WCS Code of Conduct.
• Provide any other assistance as requested by the line manager.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife management/Related studies
• At least 2-4years of actual work experience working in remote, field-based environments
• Experience in carnivore monitoring
• Experience in tracking carnivores and identifying spoor
• Proficiency in written and spoken English
• Proficiency in using handheld GPS units, navigation apps, and basic field navigation techniques.
• Strong field-based problem-solving skills, especially in carnivore monitoring techniques
• High level of integrity, honesty, and responsibility
• Knowledge of MS Excel and Word

• Experience with ecological data management, including data entry, cleaning, and organization.
• Experience sorting, cataloguing, and managing large camera trap datasets.
• Familiarity with CyberTracker and/or SMART software
• Experience with GIS and spatial analysis (QGIS or ArcGIS)
• Valid driving license and extensive 4WD experience
• Position is open to Tanzanian nationals only

 

 

Project Location & reporting  

The position reports to WCS Greater Ruaha-Katavi Landscape Wildlife Corridor Coordinator. The candidate will be based in the field site for 4 out of the 6 months of the position.

 

Terms

The position is for 6 months, beginning July 1^st, 2025, with the possibility of extension. Compensation will be based on experience.

 

Application Instructions

 

Qualified candidates should send:

 

1) Cover letter and CV Only

2) Applications should be sent via email to: WCS Tanzania addressed to the County Director at  wcshrtanzania@wcs.org with the Subject: “Application for Carnivore Research Officer Position”

3)Applications should be submitted by:  May 28th, 2025, 5:00 PM EA TIME

4) Only Shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

 

Note: WCS Does not receive money in exchange for employment. Should you be asked for money in exchange for an interview opportunity or a job, please contact the police immediately. All WCS job applications will be received through wcshrtanzania@wcs.org  and not otherwise.