Park Protection Technical Advisor/Pilot at Frankfurt Zoological Society – Serengeti National Park

Park Protection Technical Advisor/Pilot at Frankfurt Zoological Society – Serengeti National Park

Position: Park Protection Technical Advisor/Pilot

An International Conservation organization is looking “Park Protection Technical Advisor/Pilot” to engage with Serengeti National Park Management in developing an integrated aerial surveillance programme, patrol planning and law enforcement to drive Conservation Success.

About Us: 

At Frankfurt Zoological Society, we are dedicated to preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices through impactful conservation projects in protected areas and outstanding wild places of the Serengeti, the Selous/Nyerere and Mahale. We believe in the power of partnership and innovation to drive positive change for our planet therefore we collaborate with the government of Tanzania through the ministry of Natural resources and Tourism. Join us in our mission to make a difference! 

Position Overview: 

We are seeking a passionate and experienced park protection Technical Advisor/Pilot to work in partnership with the Serengeti National Park management.  The TA will provide technical advice and practical support in the development and management of the aerial surveillance programme, integrating this with park protection and law enforcement patrol planning and monitoring.

 Location/duty Station: 

Serengeti National Park with regular travel across this large ecosystem. Occasional travel to Dodoma, Dar es Salaam, Nyerere/Selous/Mahale and other areas in Tanzania is also anticipated. 

Reporting to: 

FZS Serengeti Ecosystem Conservation Programme (SECP) Manager (PM) – Coordinates closely with SECP project team, in particular the Operations Manager(s), other FZS technical advisors and project finance team. Works closely with relevant SENAPA and TANAPA management and pilots.

Contract Type: Full-time 

Key Responsibilities and Outputs: 

Aircraft safety and management

• Ensure that FZS-operated aircraft within the SECP are maintained as per service schedule and all licenses, inspections and requirements by TCAA and TCRA are adhered to in an efficient and timely manner.

• To oversee the management of maintenance and safety of the FZS-operated aircraft within the SECP as per the approved maintenance schedules. 

• Ensure appropriate use of the FZS aircraft and that any aerial operations outside of Serengeti National Park boundaries are approved by FZS Programme Manager. 
• To develop a programme for checking and monitoring pilot and mechanic compliance with safe operating procedures and facilitate continuing professional development and refresher training 

Piloting / Aerial Surveillance support

• Support the drive in Serengeti and more widely in Tanzania protected areas to develop aerial surveillance programmes based on Light Sport Aircraft (i.e. Savanah or similar Rotax engine LSA) for monitoring and protection of wildlife.
• Provide aerial law enforcement support (aerial patrols) and coordination with ground-based patrol teams in coordination with SENAPA protection department and other pilots

• Provide aerial support for logistical purposes to FZS and Senior SECP staff as agreed

• Implement aerial monitoring of key wildlife species, including elephant, buffalo, rhino with the wildlife authrotiies

• Strengthen aerial patrol reporting (including tracklogs and observation waypoints) and work closely with TANAPA and FZS team to enhance patrol effectiveness monitoring

• Work with FZS SECP staff to provide monthly reports for monitoring project effectiveness and fulfilling donor reporting requirements.

Mentoring

• To support efforts for coordination of protected area law enforcement with protection managers, rangers and pilots from partner organisations in the wider Serengeti ecosystem (NCAA Grumeti, Ikorongo and Maswa Games Reserves) with a focus on aerial surveillance programmes

• To identify suitable candidates for pilot training from within partner organisations (or elsewhere if appropriate) as part of capacity building within the conservation sector in Tanzania.

• To support the PM in fundraising for training for existing pilots and new trainees 

Qualifications, Skills and Experience Required

Essential 

• Experienced Pilot, ideally with 2000 hours flying experience and significant time spent in remote field locations

• Law enforcement and aerial monitoring in the context of protected Area Management and park operations experience essential.

• Have an interest in the technical side of an aircraft, with a full understanding of the dynamics and safety requirements of good maintenance and flight protocols.

What We Offer: 

• A competitive salary and benefits, based on experience 
• A dynamic and supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development. 
• Flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance. 
• The chance to contribute to meaningful conservation efforts and make a real difference in the world. 

How to Apply: 

If you are passionate and ready to take on this challenge and make a difference, please submit your resume and cover letter (on one pdf document) detailing your relevant experience and motivation for applying to [email protected] . Your application should be submitted no later than the 7th day of October 2024.

FZS is an equal opportunity employer.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating a favorable work environment for all employees.

Only successful applicants will be contacted for interview.