Project Officer – Pride of Meru at Born Free Foundation

The Position

We are looking for a dedicated Project Officer to be based in Meru Ecosystem to support the Pride of Meru (PoM) programme. The prime responsibility of the PoM programme is to promote coexistence between carnivores and community in Meru through development and implementation of Lion Monitoring and Human-Lion conflict mitigation mechanism across the Meru Conservation Area (MCA) and immediate wildlife dispersal areas.  The Project Officer will conduct research and data collection and analysis for use in the evaluation of the impact of the programme in meeting its desired outcomes aimed at reducing conflict between humans and predators, protect livestock and reduce incidents of retaliatory killings. In addition, the Project Officer will also be responsible for the timely updating and management of the PoM programme database.

The position key responsibilities will include but not limited to:

• Take a leading role in the project’s research, monitoring and evaluation under the guidance and supervision of PoM Manager
• Collect and analyse data.
• Participate in the preparation of scientific publications, conference presentations.
• Participate in promoting Project visibility.
• Assist in preparation of various written outputs, e.g., draft background papers, analysis, sections of reports and studies, inputs to publications, etc.
• Participate in Project Evaluation and reporting
• Assist in Project design
• Implement Human Carnivore Conflict mitigation initiatives in Meru Conservation Ecosystem.
• Lead the Lion Identification process.

Position specification;

• A bachelor’s degree in wildlife management or Natural Resources Management or environment related discipline.
• Must have 7years relevant experience in Wildlife Management or Natural Resources Management or environment related disciplines.
• Must have sound knowledge and understanding of conservation issues in the context of community livelihoods.
• A thorough understanding and experience of the Meru ecosystem.
• Proficiency in both ecological and social survey and monitoring techniques.
• Must have skills in data collection tools, data collection, handling, and management.