Pilot Technical Advisor at Frankfurt Zoological Society Nyerere National Park

An International Conservation organization is looking for Pilot Technical Advisor Aerial Monitoring, Law Enforcement and Management Support 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 Pilot / Technical Advisor for Aerial Monitoring, Law Enforcement and Management Support to: – provide technical advice and practical support to TANAPA and TAWA regarding aerial law enforcement and protected area management by providing aerial surveillance support for law enforcement and monitoring.

Location/Duty Station:

MATAMBWE, Nyerere National Park, Tanzania, with regular travel across the large ecosystem. Occasional travel to Dodoma, Dar es Salaam, Arusha and other areas in Tanzania is also expected. 

Reporting to: 

The Pilot will report to the FZS Project Leader N-SCP and coordinates closely with N-SCP project team, in particular the Operations Manager(s) and other FZS technical advisors and project finance team. The pilot will also work closely with NNP -TANAPA and SGR – TAWA management and pilots, in close consultation with the Project Leader.

Contract Type: Full-time 

Key Responsibilities and Outputs: 

Aircraft safety and management

• Ensure that FZS-operated aircraft within the N-SCP 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 assist with the management of the FZS-operated aircraft within the N-SCP and to advise the PL accordingly
• Ensure that FZS-operated aircraft within the N-SCP are maintained and stored in a professional manner
• Ensure appropriate use of the FZS aircraft and that any aerial operations outside of Nyerere National Park, Selous Game Reserve boundaries are approved by FZS Project Leader or Tanzania Country Director
• To support the management of aircraft fuel, including re-supply and safe storage at project sites
• Support the drive in Tanzania PAs to use Light Sport Aircraft (i.e. Savanah or similar Rotax engine LSA) for monitoring and protection of wildlife where PA staff are identified to regularly fly the LSAs based in the field.  Monitor the programme once activated and assess the safety and maintenance programmes regularly to ensure safe and productive use of the aircrafts.

Piloting / Aerial Surveillance support

• To pilot FZS-operated aircraft within the N-SCP.
• Provide aerial law enforcement support (aerial patrols) as planned with NNP, SGR staff, in coordination with other pilots.
• Provide aerial support for logistical purposes to FZS and Senior NNP / SGR staff as agreed
• Provide aerial monitoring of key wildlife species, including elephant, buffalo, rhino.

• Strengthen the detailed aerial reporting system, (including tracklogs and observation waypoints) and work closely with TANAPA, TAWA and FZS team to enhance patrol effectiveness monitoring.
• Work with NNP / SGR monthly to consolidate reports on the outcome of aerial patrols that reported incidents to PA authorities.

Mentoring

• To work closely with pilots from partner organisations (NNP and SGR) to plan and implement a coherent, comprehensive aerial law enforcement support operation.

• To identify suitable candidates for pilot training from within the partner organisations (or elsewhere if appropriate) also on the envisaged expansion into the use of Light Sport Aircraft.
• To support the PL in fundraising for training for existing pilots and new trainees. 

Qualifications, Skills and Experience Required

Essential 

• Experienced Pilot, ideally with 2000 flying hours and significant time spent in remote field locations.
• Law enforcement and aerial monitoring experience in the context of Protected Area Management 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.
• Willingness to live and work in remote locations.

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 not later than 7th day of October 2024.

FZS is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating a favourable work environment for all employees.

Only successful applicants will be contacted for interview.