Madagascar Conservation Officer

Organization Overview:

Conservation Allies (CA) is a nonprofit that acts as a bridge between US donors and nature conservation organizations, protecting biological diversity throughout the world. CA strives to help NGOs obtain the resources they need to make a major impact on habitat protection and biodiversity conservation. Through unique partnerships, CA provides financial and technical assistance at no cost, while also offering a donation platform to help raise funds for its partners' exceptional conservation work. Currently, CA partners with organizations in Madagascar and Latin America.

Location: 

The position is based in Madagascar (flexible location) with significant in-country travel required.

Position:

Conservation Allies is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Conservation Officer (MCO) to oversee multiple Protected Area projects in Madagascar in collaboration with our team in Madagascar and the US. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and coordinating conservation efforts with partners. The MCO is expected to undertake at least ten days in the field per month reviewing and assisting projects and the remainder of the time working from home. The position will report directly to the Executive Director and will work closely with our existing MCO based in Antananarivo. 

Responsibilities:

• Establish a strong working relationship with partner organizations. Provide advice, technical assistance, and collaboration as required.
• Monitor the progress of CA Protected Area Support Grants in 6-8 Protected Areas. For each grant: (1) Daily monitoring of forest cover using tools such as Global Forest Watch (especially fires); (2) Ensuring all grantee reports are produced on time; (3) Undertake a thorough review of those reports to ensure satisfactory progress; (4) Undertake at least 10 days a month in the field visiting projects and capacity-building PA staff; (5) Educate PA staff on fire prevention techniques and tools; and (6) Assess factors contributing to the success or challenges to our project work. 
• Provide monthly reports and updates with details of activities completed that month, and proposed plans for the month ahead.
• Assist partners in their online fundraising efforts and monthly news for our website.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of successful Protected Areas within the Malagasy Protected Area Network. 
•  Identify new partnership opportunities in Key Biodiversity Areas.

Qualifications and Experiences Requested:

• Fluency / Strong written and oral English communication skills, in addition to Malagasy and/or French.
• A Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Conservation, or other relevant field. A PhD is preferred.
• 5+ years of related conservation work experience.
• A motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with others.
• Passion for conservation, environmental issues, and ecotourism in Madagascar.   

Compensation: 

Salary is competitive and will commensurate with experience. In addition to the monthly salary, per diem and travel expenses will be covered while in the field.

How to Apply: 

Please submit a resume (with LinkedIn URL if applicable) and cover letter to Caitlin Eschmann (caitlin@conservationallies.org). Please detail your relevant skills, experiences, and expected salary requirements. Application is open until June 15th. In-person interviews in Madagascar to occur in late June with an anticipated start date in early July.