Overview of the role

The Botswana Wild Bird Trust (BWBT) is expanding and seeking a highly qualified and experienced professional to join our team as the Programs Implementation and Knowledge Centre Manager. This role is based in Beetsha, Eastern Panhandle of the Okavango Delta, and is responsible for leading the Beetsha Nkashi Knowledge Centre (BNKC) team while overseeing the implementation of BWBT programs and activities.

The successful candidate will work closely with various department managers, including Community Development, Science & Research, and Operations, to ensure seamless planning and execution of initiatives. This position requires strong leadership, operational management, and a deep understanding of social sciences, conservation, natural resource management, and community engagement.

Background Okavango Eternal Project

The Okavango Eternal Project aims to protect the source waters of the Okavango Delta, ensuring the sustainability of both ecosystems and livelihoods. The Delta is one of Africa’s natural wonders, and its source waters in Angola and Namibia support over one million people, vital biodiversity, and future socio-economic development in Southern Africa.

Since 2015, the National Geographic Society’s Okavango Wilderness Project has been working to secure permanent protection for the Okavango Basin. Now, in partnership with De Beers, this initiative continues to focus on conservation, community empowerment, and gender equity across Angola, Botswana, and Namibia.

Reporting lines

The Programs Implementation and Knowledge Centre Manager will report directly to the Managing Director (BWBT) and collaborate with team managers such as the Community Development Manager, Operations Manager, and Research Coordinator for guidance and support.

Key Responsibilities:

Management, Human Resources, Finance, and Administration

• Oversee daily operations of Beetsha Nkashi Knowledge Centre (BNKC), managing staff schedules, leave, travel, and performance evaluations.
• Co-develop, implement, and manage BNKC and project budgets, ensuring efficient utilization of funds.
• Assist in recruiting and onboarding staff and consultants for BNKC.
• Lead and coordinate regular staff meetings to ensure alignment and effective execution of activities.
• Address and resolve conflicts among teams, community members, and stakeholders to foster strong partnerships.

Centre Management and Operations

• Oversee facility operations, ensuring smooth functioning with support from the Managing Director, Operations Manager, and Community Development Manager.
• Supervise the maintenance and usage of vehicles, equipment, and infrastructure at BNKC.
• Assist in developing and enforcing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for BNKC use by staff and stakeholders.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Support monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to assess the impact and effectiveness of BWBT programs.
• Assist in evaluating BWBT’s programs and maintaining accurate databases and records.
• Ensure timely submission of reports, metrics, and indicators.
• Establish feedback loops to keep stakeholders informed on program impacts.
• Work with the Communications and Marketing team to develop materials that showcase program progress.
• Host weekly Traction meetings to discuss activity updates, team achievements, future plans, and budget allocations.

Program Design and Implementation

• Assist the Community Development Manager in feasibility and needs assessments to inform strategic interventions.
• Collaborate with BWBT leadership to equip BNKC with necessary resources for effective training and community engagement.
• Strengthen capacity-building initiatives for staff and stakeholders, ensuring optimal utilization of BNKC facilities.
• Develop inclusive and participatory community-based plans that support livelihoods and conservation, ensuring local ownership and benefit-sharing.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships, ensuring clear communication and feedback mechanisms.
• Ensure successful implementation of BWBT projects in the Eastern Panhandle and across the northern Okavango Delta.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree (preferred) in Development Studies, Community Development, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Science, Social Sciences, Tourism & Hospitality, or a related field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in leadership, operations, and program implementation.
• Minimum 5 years of experience managing a centre or camp in a remote area.
• Experience in the NGO sector is an added advantage.
• Proven ability to implement programs with strict timelines and measurable outcomes.
• Strong team management and leadership skills for multi-faceted development programs.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
• Strong logistical and organizational skills.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and community development.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Demonstrated experience in budget planning, financial management, and reporting.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and Setswana.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Valid Class B driver’s license.
• Strong integrity, self-motivation, and ability to work independently.
• Passion for working with rural communities and promoting conservation efforts.
• Willingness to live and work in a remote area with limited amenities.

Methodology

• Stay and work from the office at the Beetsha Nkashi Knowledge Centre.
• Visits to Maun Knowledge Centre for strategic meetings and or events as needed.
• This is a full-time, permanent position that will require that the person works Monday to Friday for approximately 40 hours per week.
• Note that the inherent nature of the job will require that the person is both willing and able to occasionally work longer hours and over weekends to meet the operational and management requirements.

**Application Process ** If you believe that this role provides a potential opportunity for you to showcase your exceptional abilities and skills, please send your confidential application to jobs@wildbirdtrust.com with “Programs Implementation and Knowledge Center Manager” as the email subject line.

In addition, your application is to include: Cover letter motivating and outlining your interest in the role and why you believe you should be considered for this potential opportunity. Curriculum Vitae (with relevant contact details and must include remuneration expectations) and copies of relevant educational certificates.

**Please note: **Salary is commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience.

• Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.
• Applications close February 14, 2025.

Research Project Officer vacancy (Hogsback)

CPP, a conservation organisation, is growing and is seeking an experienced, hands-on, and detail-oriented individual to join its team in a half-day post as Project Administrator of the Cape Parrot Project.

About us

The Wild Bird Trust (WBT) runs conservation projects which presently have operations in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Angola through the presence of local operating entities, namely, The Wild Bird Trust in South Africa, The Botswana Wild Bird Trust, Kavango Wilderness Project NPA in Namibia, and the Lisima Foundation in Angola. These entities, in addition to the USA based 501c3 organisation, The Wilderness Project Foundation, are collectively referred to as the WBT family.

In South Africa, the WBT implements the Cape Parrot Project from their bases in Hogsback, Eastern Cape and Tzaneen, Limpopo. The Cape Parrot Project was founded in 2009 with the express purpose of ensuring the survival of the endangered Cape Parrot through research on the species and its habitat to implement conservation action and restoration activities to address the threat of habitat degradation and historical destruction. The Cape Parrot Project works closely with local communities by hiring staff from within these communities and in creating community tree nurseries which supply trees needed for restoration.

Reporting Lines

The Project Administrator (PA) reports directly to the Project Manager (PM) but will assist all team members in terms of the responsibilities outlined below or as required by the PM.

The role

The PA’s role is to provide research, administrative, logistical and operational support to the Project Manager and other members of the CPP team. This will include a research component with the PA a key member of the Research team, providing for desktop research, writing and other support. From an administrative perspective, the role will include procurement, financial and human resource administration, asset management, basic marketing duties and data capturing, including capturing of research data. The role is broad and varied, and the PA will play an integral role in the day-to-day operations of the CPP. While the PA will seek advice and direction from the Project Manager, they should have the knowledge and skills to work independently.

Jon Overview

The PA’s role is to provide administrative, logistical and operational support to the Project Manager and other members of the CPP team. From an administrative perspective, the role will include procurement, financial and human resource administration, asset management, basic marketing duties and data capturing, including capturing of research data. The role is broad and varied, and the PA will play an integral role in the day-to-day operations of the CPP. While the PA will seek advice and direction from the Project Manager, they should have the knowledge and skills to work on their own independently.

The PA is required to be at the CPP base in Hogsback timeously on a daily basis and, therefore, they are required to have their own transport or live close enough to the base to be on time for the working day, bearing in mind there is very limited public transport. Hogsback is a remote, very small village two hours north-west of East London, there are no doctors or hospitals and only one grocery store. Potential candidates are advised to carefully consider this aspect prior to making application.

Responsibilities / Duties / Key Result Areas

To perform this job successfully, the PA will have the following duties and responsibilities although additional duties may be assigned by the PM as and when required:

In line with WBT Policies and Standard Operating Procedures assist with:

Human Resources

To perform this job successfully, the PA will have the following duties and responsibilities although additional duties may be assigned by the PM as and when required:

• Attend to the administration of the documentation relating to community and project-based staff/ contractors.
• Manage the CPP internal and external staff timesheets.
• Ensure CPP HR documentation online (including on the Sage HR system ) and in the office is in order.

Financial Administration

Implementation of all aspects of financial administration including:

• Use of the ApprovalMax system to submit supplier/ service provider invoices for EFT paymentand Submit CPP team expense claims with the necessary documentation maintenance of supporting documentation.
• Use of Xero to upload monthly bank expenditure.
• With the PM, monitor all credit card and online expenditure including allocations and maintain supporting documentation.
• Manage the CPP petty cash boxes and cash payments and maintain supporting documentation.

Asset Management

• Work with the CPP team to update and maintain the various CPP asset inventories.
• Liaise with the PM to update insurance policy and assist with claiming from insurance if necessary.
• Assist with asset procurement processes.
• Renew vehicle and trailer licences.
• Monitor and assist with organising regular maintenance of various assets.

General Administration/ Other

• Procurement and management of operational, office and staff supplies.
• Host visiting guests and make necessary arrangements in this regard.
• Arrange outings and other activities for staff.
• Arrange outings and other activities relating to education and partnership outreach.
• Attend meetings and capture & disseminate meeting minutes.
• Create and maintain project report summaries and other historical reference documentation.
• Support the PM to maintain Health & Safety standards through familiarisation with WBT Health & Safety SoPs and policies, procurement, administration and implementation.

Social Media & Marketing

• Alert the WBT Media & Marketing team to relevant content for the CPP social media platforms, providing content where necessary and provide a communication channel with them in this regard.
• Assist with marketing of CPP locally, through stalls, attending functions and the like.
• Manage marketing resources locally.

Research & Research Support

• Participate in strategic planning with the CPP team with a focus on administration and support for research data capturing.
• Assist to enter research data into the appropriate databases after any completed field work, preferably on the same day.
• Upload and sort CPP research photographs into relevant folders while maintaining a tagging/categorising system for photographs

Qualification/ Skills and Competencies

Education / Experience

• Tertiary qualification in any administrative or related field
• Minimum of 5 years of administrative and financial administration experience
• Being a confident driver with a driver’s licence and the ability to drive both on-road and off-road will be an advantage to assist with collections, deliveries and dropping off staff in the field.
• High level of proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite (particularly Google Docs).
• Familiarity with working on Cloud applications, particularly Google Drive and Microsoft One Drive.
• Familiarity with financial online systems such as ApprovalMax and Xero.
• Ability to quickly learn any new technological updates related to the role as they arise.

Competencies

• Strong English verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team.
• Well-developed interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail, strong organisational and prioritisation skills and the ability to deliver on deadlines.
• Ability to multi-task and work accurately across a range of tasks.

Personal Skills

• Adaptability to varying circumstances.
• A natural willingness and ability to use your initiative and problem-solve.
• Motivated and hands-on with a strong commitment to meeting both personal and team work goals.
• Problem-solving abilities.
• Unafraid to ask for guidance in situations where more information or clarification is needed.

Place of Work / Working Hours:

• The offices are based on a smallholding off the central road of Hogsback in the Eastern Cape .
• The person will work from 8h00-13h00 , Monday to Friday.
• Working hours other than the core office hours will be required on occasions for either assisting with marketing events or to meet operational or research deadlines.

Application Process:

For a more detailed job description, or to apply, send the following to: susan@wildbirdtrust.com and use “CPP PROJECT ADMINISTRATOR” as the subject line:

• Cover letter of motivation outlining your interest in applying for the vacancy. Your cover letter must also include your salary expectations.
• Curriculum Vitae including contact information and at least three contactable references

Please note: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience & only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview..

Research Field Assistant, Landscape vacancy (Hogsback)

The Landscape Research Field Assistant (RFA-L) plays a key role in implementing the Cape Parrot Project’s Landscape Conservation Programme, focusing on habitat protection, restoration, and sustainable management. Based in Hogsback, this field-intensive role involves ecological data collection, long-term habitat monitoring, and managing the Eco-ranger Team, including coordination, data collection support, and capacity development. The position requires physical endurance for fieldwork in rugged terrain, strong data management skills, and the ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders. The RFA-L must also ensure timely departures for fieldwork, requiring either personal transport or proximity to the project base.

About us

CPP, a conservation organisation, is growing and is seeking a full-time Research Field Assistant, Landscape (RFA-L) to support its Landscape Conservation work.

The Wild Bird Trust (WBT) runs conservation projects which presently have operations in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Angola through the presence of local operating entities, namely, The Wild Bird Trust in South Africa, The Botswana Wild Bird Trust, Kavango Wilderness Project NPA in Namibia, and the Lisima Foundation in Angola. These entities, in addition to the USA based 501c3 organisation, The Wilderness Project Foundation, are collectively referred to as the WBT family.

In South Africa, the WBT implements the Cape Parrot Project from their bases in Hogsback, Eastern Cape and Tzaneen, Limpopo. The Cape Parrot Project was founded in 2009 with the express purpose of ensuring the survival of the endangered Cape Parrot through research on the species and its habitat to implement conservation action and restoration activities to address the threat of habitat degradation and historical destruction. The Cape Parrot Project works closely with local communities by hiring staff from within these communities and in creating community tree nurseries which supply trees needed for restoration.

The role

The position of the Landscape Research Field Assistant (RFA-L) is a diverse role aimed at supporting the implementation of the Cape Parrot Project’s Landscape Conservation Programme which aims to facilitate the protection, sustainable management and restoration of Cape Parrot forest habitat across the species distribution. The role encompasses the collection of ecological and spatial data and associated data management; coordination and capacity development of forest eco-rangers; applied research design and implementation with a focus on ecological restoration; reporting and communication; and community/stakeholder engagement within the Southern Node base in Hogsback. The RFA-L will play a key role in the implementation of long-term habitat monitoring of key Cape Parrot forests as well as Cape Parrot Project restoration sites. In this regard, the RFA-L is expected to safely carry out field work and data collection in line with Cape Parrot Project research and monitoring protocols. The RFA-L will manage the Ecoranger Team including day-to-day coordination and support of data collection, and assisting to develop Ecoranger capacity.

This position has a strong field work component and will be physically demanding, including but not limited to: hiking in mountains through thick forest; full days of field sampling in forest habitats; as well as driving technical dirt roads to access remote field work areas. We expect the suitable candidate to be able to, when required: walk up to 10 kms in a day while carrying field equipment and drive long distances if needed. Additionally, this position has a strong focus on data management and ecoranger coordination and capacity development. The RFA-L will be expected to be familiar and comfortable with working with datasets in excel, as well as working in a team environment including training. The RFA is required to be at the CPP base in Hogsback timeously to collect the project vehicle and leave for field work duties which may occasionally require early morning departures from the base. In this regard they are required to have their own transport or live close enough to the base to be on time for these essential role execution needs.

Reports to:

The Research Field Assistant, Landscape reports directly to the Cape Parrot Project (CPP) Landscape Conservation Manager (LCM), and, at times to the Project Manager (PM).

Responsibilities / Duties / Key Result Areas:

To perform this job successfully, the RFA-L will undertake the following duties and responsibilities although additional duties may be assigned by the LCM and PM as and when required:

Habitat monitoring and research

• Collect biodiversity and habitat data in forests and restoration sites using a range of methods including Permanent Sample Plots, Fixed Point Photography, Passive Acoustic Monitoring and camera traps
• Conduct vegetation surveys, habitat assessments, and restoration monitoring
• Establish and oversee collection of data from long-term forest monitoring transects
• Use GPS, remote sensing tools, and mobile data collection applications to document field data and map restoration sites
• Assist in the design and implementation of applied ecological research, particularly on forest restoration sites.
• Maintain and update habitat and restoration-related databases
• Ensure data is cleaned, organized, and stored correctly for analysis and reporting
• Assist LCM with data analysis, including GIS, and visualization where required
• Assist with contribution to and maintenance of GIS databases

Coordination and capacity development of field teams:

• Assist in developing and delivering training for eco-rangers in ecological monitoring, research techniques, and spatial data collection (e.g., GPS, Survey123).
• Support ongoing mentorship and skills development for the eco-ranger team.
• Assist in planning and organizing eco-ranger field schedules and activities
• Ensure eco-ranger data collection follows standardised protocols and quality control measures.
• Support team logistics, including transport, equipment, and field supplies

Stakeholder engagement:

• Foster relationships with local communities to promote conservation awareness and engagement in restoration projects including organizing community meetings, workshops, and outreach activities
• Assist in maintaining and developing strong relationships with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions.

Reporting & Communication:

• Support the preparation of monthly progress reports, monitoring reports and outreach presentations.
• Contribute to funding proposals and donor reporting by providing data and project summaries where relevant
• Develop visual materials such as maps, graphs, and infographics for internal and external communication where relevant

Administration

Research:

• Participate in strategic planning with the CPP team with a focus on landscape conservation and research output and the supporting data collection and management needs
• Participate in regular team meetings pertaining to ecoranger, restoration and monitoring and research activities

**Asset Management **

• Be familiar with the WBT SoPs and policies relating to procurement and asset management.
• Work with the CPP team to update and maintain the various CPP asset inventories

First Aid

• Assist with compliance for Health and Safety, including; Act as First Responder in the event of an emergency in the field, communicating with emergency services and medical teams when necessary to get field staff to safety

Qualifications

• A minimum of B. Tech or degree in an appropriate biological field (Ecology, Conservation Ecology, Forestry, Biological Sciences, Zoology, Environmental Sciences etc.), MSc preferred
• Minimum 2 years related working experience, in particular conducting ecological fieldwork, with experience in forest environments a bonus

Essential skills:

• Proficiency with MSOffice, Google suite
• Proficiency and experience in data management in Excel
• Basic proficiency in GIS programs (preferably ArcGIS Pro)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong organizational and coordination skills, especially in field logistics
• Experience in training or capacity development, particularly with community-based teams - alternatively a passion/keen interest in training and capacity building
• Orienteering skills and ability to use GPS
• Qualified and confident Driver with 4x4 experience and a valid Class B Driver’s Licence

Desirable:

• Experience with basic statistical analysis and ecological data interpretation (using R or other such statistical programmes).
• Experience working with local communities and stakeholders in conservation initiatives
• Familiarity with mobile data collection tools (e.g., Survey123, Quick Capture, iNaturalist)
• Knowledge of restoration ecology and forest rehabilitation techniques
• Proficiency in isiXhosa

Competency:

• Structured, organised, neat and systematic worker
• Good numerical skills and an accurate worker - accurate data entry skills with a strong attention to detail
• Able to work independently and as part of a culturally diverse team.
• Enthusiastic, technically-minded and adaptive
• Critical thinking and taking initiative
• Good time management and self-motivated- you will need to ensure that your work schedule provides the optimum assistance to all as and when needed and according to deadlines and timelines.
• Patient, determined and curious yet pragmatic nature
• Flexible approach to your work - your schedule may necessitate changes to meet any unexpected and urgent work needs and/or deadlines.
• Willingness to live and work in a remote location
• Physical strength and fitness and be able to perform physical work in rugged terrain while under adverse conditions or in inclement weather.

Application Process:

For a more detailed job description, or to apply, send the following to: susan@wildbirdtrust.com and use “Research Field Assistant, Landscape” as the subject line:

• Cover letter of motivation outlining your interest in applying for the vacancy and expected salary.
• Curriculum Vitae including at least three contactable references

Please note: Applications close on 28 February 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.