Junior Field Ecologist Interns Zambian Carnivore Programme

The Zambian Carnivore Programme (ZCP) is a non-governmental, non-profit field-based organization
dedicated to the conservation of large carnivores and ecosystems across Zambia (and the broader region)
through science, action, coexistence, and the strengthening of local leadership. ZCP is seeking several detail-oriented, organized, team-oriented, and hard-working Zambian nationals with strong computer skills and a passion for wildlife to join our conservation organization as Junior Field Ecologist Interns at our Greater Liuwa and Greater Kafue field projects, starting in June 2024.

Responsibilities
• Conduct field work as determined by the project’s schedule and needs. Duties may include:
deployment of camera traps, collecting behavioral and demographic data on large carnivores and
their prey, collecting distance sampling data of large herbivores, and collecting fecal samples for
genetic analyses;
• Identify individual carnivores from photographs using spot, whisker, and coat patterns;
• Accurately collect data in the field and complete data sheets in SMART mobile; ensure that data is
kept up-to-date by uploading and proofing datasheets using SMART desktop; assist with other data
entry and management duties using SMART, PowerPoint, Excel, and Microsoft Access.
• Assist with report writing and social media updates;
• Assist in creating maps using QGIS, when requested;
• Assist in the implementation of conservation education activities with local schools and communities;
• Assist with presentations, activities, and logistics with partner organizations and collaborating
lodges, as requested. This is inclusive of supporting marketing, publicity, and fundraising activities;
• Assist with logistical, administrative, and operational tasks as requested by the site manager, e.g.
helping with dishes and cooking, cleaning, unpacking shipments, organizing vehicles, and helping fix
camp and vehicle infrastructure

The successful candidate will have:
• Strong and positive work ethic: will work in challenging, remote field conditions for long,
unstructured hours;
• A proactive mindset, with an ability to manage their own work schedule and accomplish tasks with
minimal supervision;
• Strong computer skills: must be proficient with the Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Microsoft
Excel. In Microsoft Excel, the applicant must be able to use basic formulas, sort and filter data, and
create and manage basic tables/graphs. Experience with SMART and Microsoft Access preferred,
but not required;
• A university bachelor’s degree in Biology, Wildlife Management, Natural Resource Management, or
a related field;
• Excellent spoken and written English.

The successful candidate will be:
• Respectful, kind, positive, and team-oriented;
• Organized, flexible, and communicative;
• Independent, adaptable, and solution-driven;
• Detail-oriented, and able to follow directions carefully;
• Able to live in a remote and challenging field camp as part of a team;
• Passionate about nature conservation!

Desirable qualities and skills
Training in field skills and data management will be provided for the right candidate. However, it will be
considered beneficial if the candidate already has:
• Basic knowledge of GIS and SMART;
• Prior field experience (knowledge, experience, and/or training) with: camera trapping, distance
sampling, radio telemetry, GPS use, navigating in the field, etc;
• General understanding of ecological principles, research methodologies, and carnivore ecology;
• In possession of (or ability to obtain) a valid driver’s license or motorbike license.