WWF India’s Khangchendzonga Landscapeis seeking a dedicated individual to contribute to our critical Red Panda conservation initiative in Darjeeling and Sikkim. This role demands a multidisciplinary approach to address complex conservation challenges facing the iconic red panda and its habitat.
Location: Darjeeling Office (KCL)
Job Profile:
- Develop and implement conservation strategies to protect red panda populations and their habitat.
- Foster strong partnerships with local communities to ensure long-term conservation success.
- Conduct research and monitoring activities to assess the red panda's ecological status and threats.
- Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to advance conservation efforts.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of community-based conservation projects.
Programme Development
- Imbibe the Red Panda conservation strategy of the Wildlife and Habitat Programme, WWF India
- Develop new ideas, support the revision and development of strategy through critical thinking
- Establish key partnerships with local communities and relevant stakeholders towards long term conservation of the red panda and its habitats with benefits to people.
Programme Implementation
- Implementation of existing project commitments that include developing alternate sources of energy in villages adjacent to red panda habitats, training programs/ implementation of activities including on waste management.
- Assist in conducting field-based studies to understand the species biology, habitat needs and factors influencing its density and distribution.
- Build large scale awareness and education campaign to generate awareness about significance of red pandas/ snow leopards and instil pride among citizens.
Networking and advocacy
- The candidate will assist the Project Leader for effective liaising with stakeholders including Govt. department (s), Institutions(s), and NGOs for any issue pertaining to planning and implementation of project activities in the landscape.
Reporting
- Assist Project Leader with coordination, technical reporting and report writing.
- Write quality publications for publication in peer reviewed journals.
This is a project-based position with the potential for extension based on performance and project needs. Outstanding candidates may be considered for other roles within WWF India.
The candidate will work closely with and report to the Landscape Coordinator, KCL-Darjeeling.
Requirements
Desired Qualifications and Experience:
- Master’s in Science/ Wildlife Conservation/Conservation Practice, or related discipline.
- 1 -2 years experience of working in mountain areas/ landscapes is preferred though not necessary.
- Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative methods, community development and partnerships and natural resource management.
- Experience in ecological assessments, specifically species population-density, habitat quality and species habitat associations.
- Good report writing skills, coordination/ liaison and communication skills are essential.
- Preference will be given to candidates with experience or strong desire of working in the Eastern Himalaya.
WWF-India is an equal opportunities employer. Applications from qualified women are encouraged.
Remuneration will be competitive with Indian NGO pay scales and will depend upon the candidate’s experience levels and the overall WWF-India salary structure. WWF-India does not provide housing, telephone or vehicle facilities.
