Job Description

Posted on May 3, 2024

Job Opportunity
FZS Zambia Wildlife Veterinarian
Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS) works in partnership with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) through the North Luangwa Conservation Programme (NLCP) and Nsumbu-Tanganyika Conservation Programme (NTCP) to protect and conserve the North Luangwa and Nsumbu-Tanganyika landscapes, respectively. The NLCP & NTCP support effective and efficient protected area management, with a wider focus on empowering communities to manage natural resources in the Game Management Areas adjacent to the parks. The NLCP’s mission of ‘Linking livelihoods and landscape’ and the NTCP’s mission of ‘Conserving landscapes, enriching lives’ both seek to address their key challenges by taking holistic approaches for more resilient socio-ecological systems.
Purpose of the Job
FZS Zambia is seeking a young Wildlife Veterinarian to learn from international experts and experienced local partners, with the potential to develop into a leading role in all wildlife veterinary-related operations in the North Luangwa and Nsumbu-Tanganyika landscapes. The purpose of the role is to support wildlife management, ecological monitoring, and research programmes that contribute to the successful conservation of key species (including black rhino, elephant, lion, wild dog, and buffalo) and their habitats.
The successful candidate will be expected to accompany the team and/or scouts on expeditions in the field related to wildlife capture and ecological data collection, requiring physical exertion on rugged terrain both in North Luangwa and Nsumbu National Parks and surrounding GMAs.
Name of position: Wildlife Veterinarian
Reporting to: Ecology and Conservation Science Managers
Works closely with: NLCP & NTCP project teams, DNPW and other government partners, local communities, and international supporters
Location: North Luangwa National Park; accommodation provided
Salary: Competitive based on qualifications + experience
Start date: As soon as possible
Key Roles & Responsibilities

Coordinate veterinary and ecological monitoring activities with partners and stakeholders
Coordinate capacity building and training initiatives for the team
Collaborate on wildlife capture and translocation operations
Conduct de-snaring operations and other interventions in response to human-caused injury
Conduct wildlife disease surveillance, diagnosis, and, where applicable treatment
Implement or contribute to ecological monitoring programmes, including wildlife surveys, carnivore monitoring, and aquatic biodiversity monitoring
Manage ecological monitoring and veterinary databases and analyse and report on ecological monitoring data
Communicate results to partners, donors, local stakeholders, and the public using appropriate mediums

Qualifications, skills and attributes

A degree in Veterinary Science from a recognised university
Minimum 2 years of fieldwork experience or internship
Experience in ecological survey techniques
Good written and spoken English communication skills
Proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)
Proficiency in GIS, including desktop and mobile applications
Valid motorbike and vehicle driving licenses
Able to communicate in Bemba/Senga/Bisa

Your application should include a chronological CV in PDF format and a cover letter (maximum 2 pages), including your earliest possible starting date and expected package. The cover letter will be used to judge the quality of your application and should answer the following:

What interests you most about the position?
Describe your veterinary experience, especially with wildlife.
What are the most important personal attributes and technical skills you will bring to the role?
How does wildlife veterinary work compliment species conservation and restoration?
Three traceable references with a short description of your working relationship, and their contact details.

Any applications clearly drafted using AI writing assistants (e.g., Microsoft Copilot) will be set aside.
Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered for the position. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Please submit applications to [email protected]. Ensure the subject line in your email application states “FZS ZM – Wildlife Veterinarian”. Applications close on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

To apply for this job email your details to jobs.zambia@fzs.org