Job Title: WIO Seagrass Mapping Project Coordinator
Organization: Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA)
Location: Flexible within the Western Indian Ocean region
Duration: Full-time, Fixed-term Contract
Start Date: 1st June 2024
About WIOMSA:
The Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA) is a regional, non-profit, membership organization devoted to the promotion of marine science and coastal management in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region. WIOMSA aims to enhance the capacity of regional stakeholders, promote the generation and sharing of scientific knowledge, and support the sustainable management of marine and coastal resources.
Position Overview:
WIOMSA is seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to serve as the Project Coordinator for the WIO Seagrass Mapping project. The Project Coordinator will lead and manage all aspects of the project, including planning, implementation, coordination with partners, and reporting. The successful candidate will play a critical role in advancing seagrass conservation and management efforts in the Western Indian Ocean region.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive project plan for seagrass mapping in the Western Indian Ocean region.
- Coordinate with project partners, including government agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and local communities who will be participating in the field verification work in each of the project countries.
- Oversee fieldwork activities, including data collection, analysis, and quality control. Manage timelines for field verification in the WIO countries, help to identify barriers to success and develop solutions
- Manage project budget and resources effectively to ensure timely completion of project deliverables.
- Prepare progress reports, technical documents, and other project outputs for stakeholders and partners. Measure project performance using appropriate systems, tools, and techniques.
- Organize workshops, trainings, and other capacity-building activities with proejct partners (Pew and Oxford University) to support seagrass conservation and management efforts.
- Foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders working on seagrass conservation in the region.
- Establish and maintain relationships across countries and proactively help solve issues when challenges arise
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree or equivalent in marine science, environmental science, biology, or a related field.
- At least 5 years of experience in project management, preferably in the marine conservation or natural resource management sector.
- Strong background in marine ecology, with specific expertise in seagrass ecosystems highly desirable.
- Demonstrated experience in leading fieldwork and scientific research activities in coastal environments.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, researchers, NGOs, and local communities.
- Proficiency in English; knowledge of French or other languages spoken in the Western Indian Ocean region is an advantage.
- Willingness to travel within the region as needed.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references to Executive Director -WIOMSA – secretary@wiomsa.org. Please include “WIO Seagrass Mapping Project Coordinator” in the subject line of your email. Applications will be accepted until 30th April 2024.
WIOMSA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or nationality. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Photo: Lillian Daudi