FZS Zambia

North Luangwa Conservation Program

Vacancy:  Community Liaison Assistant – Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning

Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS) is an international nature conservation organization based in Frankfurt, Germany that coordinates projects in 18 countries. We envision a world where wildlife and wild lands are cherished and sustainably protected for their intrinsic and economic value to present and future generations. Our mission is to conserve wildlife and ecosystems, focusing on protected areas and outstanding wild places. More than 1,600 colleagues work for FZS conservation projects worldwide. Our goal is the preservation of wildlife and wilderness. Together, we protect biodiversity, the basis of human life. Our partners in the projects on site are local communities, nature conservation authorities, national park administrations and other NGOs. To learn more about us, visit www.fzs.org.

FZS Zambia (FZS-ZM) has a rich history of conservation, having been actively involved in the preservation of the North Luangwa Ecosystem since 1986 and the Nsumbu-Tanganyika region since 2017. Our mission at FZS-ZM is to link livelihoods and landscapes through conservation and enhancement efforts. We are dedicated to continuously expanding our initiatives, broadening both our geographical reach and thematic focus. These endeavours are made possible through FZS core funding, international government partners, and the contributions of private donors.

1.     Job title:

Community Liaison Assistant – Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning

2.     Job purpose

The position is intended to assist in monitoring and reporting on the implementation, improvement and adaptive management of effective bottom-up community engagement programmes.  Specifically, the role will address all monitoring and evaluation-related activities with the custodian communities in the Chiefdoms of the Game Management Areas surrounding North Luangwa National Park (collectively termed North Luangwa Landscape). This is in line with NLCP’s strategy and with the partnership between Frankfurt Zoological Society and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW).

3.     Reporting to:

Livelihoods and Partnership Advisor

4.     Location/Station

Mpika, in the North Luangwa Ecosystem and other locations as the job requires.

5.     Salary

A competitive salary will be paid based on qualifications and experience.

6.     Duties

The Community Liaison Assistant – MERL shall be responsible for monitoring, reporting and communicating on field activities for community landscape integration and outreach services in the North Luangwa Ecosystem. Specifically, the duties shall be as follows:

a.     Provide support for Monitoring, evaluation and learning of field-based staff

• Facilitate data collection and capture related to the NLCP LLCA objectives, supporting field teams.
• Provide support to the Community Livelihoods and Partnership Advisor and CCOs on data feedback for the CRBS, VAGs, and other community projects.
• Assist with the development and feedback of communication products relevant to field teams and different stakeholder groups.
• Assist with the dissemination of FZS project results and lessons learned.
• Maintain a database of NLCP LLCA intervention outputs.

b.    General

• Adhere to annual FZS and donor budgets, following FZS and donor financial management policy and procedures for proper and transparent use of project funds.
• Ensure responsible use and care of any project assets and equipment assigned to the community outreach team, including vehicles for field teams.
• Work closely with the office of the DNPW extension staff, CRBs, VAG committees, NLE, and field staff.
• Perform any other duties that may be delegated in line with NLCP’s strategy.

7.     Behavioural Competencies

• Teamwork: Cooperate, support, and work well with others to achieve project goals. Share information and contribute effectively to FZS` objectives and solving problems.
• Initiatives: Pro-active, energetic, and a self-starter. Recognise and discuss new opportunities report them, and address problems in a timely manner. Maintain effective communication with management, project partners, and stakeholders.
• Flexibility: Adaptable, resourceful, and receptive to new ideas; willing and able to adjust to changing circumstances.
• Integrity: Honest, reliable, and maintain high ethical standards. Show respect and fairness when dealing with others.

Other attributes:

• Self-motivated, disciplined, and determined to work within the flexible nature of the work.
• Good communication skills.
• Good attention to detail.
• Good writing skills.
• Ability and willingness to live in a rural setting.
• Ability to adhere to work ethics and NLCP core values.

8.     Required skills, experience, and qualifications.

• At least a diploma in social science in a relevant field such as community based natural resource management.
• At least 1 year of practical field experience in working with rural communities.
• Good experience with computer packages and good data management skills.
• Experience in managing data systems.
• Basic understanding of monitoring and evaluation approaches and data management.
• Basic practical experience working with traditional authorities will be an added advantage.