Project Officer, Marine – East African Wild Life Society (EAWLS)

Project Officer, Marine – East African Wild Life Society (EAWLS)

• Project Officer, Marine
• Department: Programs and Advocacy
• Reports to: Programs and Advocacy Manager
• Location: Headquarters, Nairobi, Kenya
• Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract
• Deadline: September 30, 2024

About Us

The East African Wild Life Society (EAWLS) is a leading conservation organization committed to safeguarding wildlife and natural resources in East Africa. Our mission is to protect the region’s rich biodiversity through innovative and impactful conservation programs. By fostering sustainability, collaboration, and advocacy, we aim to ensure a healthy and thriving environment for generations to come.

Job Purpose

The Marine Project Officer will support the implementation of marine conservation projects within the organization. This role will focus on developing and executing conservation strategies, conducting research, and engaging with stakeholders to protect marine ecosystems.

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Key Responsibilities

1. Develop and Implement Marine Conservation Strategies

• Design and implement marine conservation projects aligned with EAWLS’s mission.
• Ensure that all strategies are scientifically sound, evidence-based, and address marine conservation challenges.

2. Conduct Marine Research and Assessments

• Perform research and field assessments to monitor marine biodiversity and ecosystems.
• Identify and document threats such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat degradation.
• Use research findings to inform conservation planning and policy recommendations.

3. Stakeholder Engagement and Community Outreach

• Build relationships with local communities, marine conservation experts, and key stakeholders.
• Conduct outreach programs to raise awareness about marine conservation and involve communities in sustainable practices.
• Facilitate workshops, training, and capacity-building sessions for local stakeholders.

4. Advocate for Marine Conservation Policies

• Engage with government agencies, policymakers, and NGOs to advocate for marine-friendly policies.
• Promote the creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and sustainable fishing practices.
• Represent EAWLS at national and regional forums focused on marine conservation.

5. Fundraising and Resource Mobilization

• Identify and pursue funding opportunities to support marine conservation projects.
• Prepare grant proposals, project budgets, and financial reports to effectively secure resources.

6. Monitor and Evaluate Marine Conservation Initiatives

• Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track project impact.
• Regularly assess project outcomes and adjust strategies to enhance effectiveness.
• Prepare progress reports for internal stakeholders and donors.

7. Capacity Building and Training

• Develop and deliver training programs to enhance the capacity of staff, community members, and partners.
• Provide technical support and guidance to project teams.

8. Collaboration and Partnership Development

• Collaborate with national and international organizations, research institutions, and other partners to strengthen conservation efforts.
• Establish partnerships that contribute to EAWLS’s marine conservation objectives.

9. Representation and Advocacy

• Represent EAWLS at seminars, conferences, and workshops focused on marine conservation.
• Advocate for marine conservation priorities through various public awareness campaigns.

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Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Marine Conservation, Marine Ecology, Oceanography, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree will be an added advantage.
• A minimum of three years of experience in marine conservation or a related field.
• Proven experience in policy analysis and advocacy within the marine sector.
• Experience in coordinating working groups and participating in national climate change discourses.

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Skills Required

Technical Skills

• Accuracy in data collection and analysis.
• Proficiency in numerical and measurement analysis, including statistical skills.
• Experience with budgeting, record keeping, and report writing.

Human Relations Skills

• Strong leadership abilities, effective communication, and conflict resolution.
• Experience in training and development and negotiation skills.

Conceptual Skills

• Expertise in environmental scanning, strategic planning, and organizational design.
• Strong background in monitoring and evaluation of conservation projects.

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Competencies

Working with Others

• Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Customer Focus: Delivering conservation services with a focus on the needs of stakeholders.
• Effective Communication: Clearly communicating goals and strategies to stakeholders.

Delivering Results

• Informed Decision-Making: Making data-driven decisions that support conservation efforts.
• Adaptability: Quickly adjusting to changing circumstances in the marine conservation environment.

Focusing on the Future

• Entrepreneurship: Identifying opportunities for innovation within marine conservation.
• Creativity and Innovation: Applying new ideas to tackle conservation challenges.
• Leading and Coaching: Providing direction and mentorship to project teams.

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Working Relationships

Internal

• Collaborate closely with the EAWLS Staff, particularly within the Programs and Advocacy department.

External

• Engage with government agencies, local communities, marine experts, NGOs, and funding organizations.

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Equal Opportunity Statement

At East African Wild Life Society, we are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. We do not charge any fees for applications or recruitment processes.

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Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications, including a detailed CV and cover letter in PDF format, to info@eawildlife.org by September 30, 2024. Please ensure your application outlines how your qualifications and experience meet the specific requirements of this role. Use the subject line “Project Officer, Marine” in your email.

Note

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis due to the urgency of this role.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• EAWLS does not charge any application or recruitment fees.

TELEGRAM CHANNEL

The Project Officer, Marine role offers an opportunity to make a tangible difference in marine conservation and protect East Africa’s unique marine biodiversity. By joining our team, you will contribute to vital conservation efforts, engage with local communities, and support policies that ensure sustainable marine environments for future generations.

Apply now to be a part of a dynamic team dedicated to environmental stewardship and conservation excellence.