Vacancy: Biodiversity Research & Monitoring Coordinator (closed)

18th August 2023, Moroto – Kara-Tunga Foundation is recruiting a Biodiversity Research & Monitoring Coordinator who will be responsible for leading the implementation of all biodiversity-related activities Karamoja sub-region of Uganda.

Position title:  Biodiversity Research & Monitoring Coordinator
Organisation: Kara-Tunga Foundation
Duty station: Moroto and Nakapiripirit are a primary base. Kaabong and Karenga as secondary.

Position Summary

KTF is looking for a passionate, self-motivated project Biodiversity Research & Monitoring Coordinator. Based in the organisation’s headquarters in Moroto Uganda, with frequent travel to the conservation zones, the BC is responsible for leading the implementation of all biodiversity-related activities. This will require a range of research, field investigation, proposal development, training, communications, and coordination tasks, all of which require excellent English language and technical skills.

The Biodiversity Research & Monitoring Coordinator reports to the Director and Project Manager and provides scientific expertise that contributes to the Foundation’s vision as well as its mission to invest in projects that maintain and enhance the health and biological diversity in the project areas.

Organisation background

Kara-Tunga Foundation is a Ugandan non-profit organisation that works in four districts (Moroto, Nakapiripirit, Kaabong, Karenge) of the Karamoja sub-region in northeastern Uganda. Karamoja is a semi-arid area and home to an agro-pastoral population with a predominantly semi-nomadic pastoral lifestyle. The region is characterised by poverty, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. But the region also has untapped opportunities.

KTF addresses these challenges by supporting three types of conservation enterprises aimed at sustainable community development: 1) Ecotourism, 2) Apiary, and 3) Agroforestry. KTF seeks an organised self-starter to be our new operations assistant and support the organisation’s growth.

Responsibilities

• Educate – Train and supervise field and project staff in the design and implementation of field activities in collaboration with M&E and field staff. E.g., surveys, village consultations, land use planning, and technical guidelines.
• Sensitise – Raise awareness and educate the public about conservation issues in collaboration with the field staff. Work with private, corporate and government to provide technical assistance related to biodiversity management.
• Planning and design – Carry out field and desk-based research on technical approaches. Support preparation of work plans and budget for field staff. Prepare concept notes, briefing documents, etc. that can be used as the basis for funding proposals.
• Monitor and research – Gather, analyse and interpret biodiversity data like behaviour monitoring, and carrying out species censuses. Data entry, management and providing reports to relevant stakeholders. We expect the use of scientific principles to research wildlife and habitats to increase our knowledge base.
• Write reports – Generate reports and provide actionable insights for communications staff. Participate in M&E visits and prepare regular program reporting requirements by both donors and KTF are met (e.g., monthly and quarterly progress reports and annual reports).
• Coordinate – Lead communication and coordination with government counterparts related to your area of expertise. Provide technical assistance to KTF staff and project partners as required. Communicate regularly with partners to identify project support needs, monitor field activities, and report on progress; Coordinate with in-country organizations working on relevant areas/themes.

Qualifications

• Advanced University Degree in Biology, Forestry, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Sustainability or other relevant field;
  At least 2 years of relevant field experience with an in-depth understanding of biodiversity conservation issues in Uganda and/or East Africa;
• Strong and proven research and analytical skills;
• Experience in GIS a distinct advantage;
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in verbal/written English a must; knowledge of a regional language (in Ngakarimojong, Ateso, Kiswahili or Pokot) is an asset.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• High integrity and confidentiality.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Able to work excellently independently as well as in a multidisciplinary team under stressful conditions
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Good physical condition and no fear of heights
• Good disposition for facing new and challenging situations

Expectations

• Starting date: September 2023
• Contract duration: 6 months, renewable.
• Place of work: Moroto and Nakapiripirit District.
• Application deadline: Friday, 25th August 2023

Non-Discrimination

Kara-Tunga Foundation does not and shall not discriminate based on race, colour, religion(creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status or sexual orientation in any of its activities or operations. These activities include but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors and vendors.

Consenting

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How to apply

Only full applications will be received and only the successful candidates will get notified. A full application includes the following documents: Application/motivational letter, CV, (academic) qualifications, and recommendation letters or references with contact details. Send this all together in one email and use the job title as the email subject to: projects@kara-tunga.com.