Wildlife Health and Disease Surveillance Officer Job Vacancy in Mana Pools, Zimbabwe – Environmental Conservation and Wildlife Management
Job Description
Position: Wildlife Health and Disease Surveillance Officer
Company: Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zimbabwe
Location: Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
Experience: 3-5 years in wildlife health monitoring, disease surveillance, or related field
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science, Wildlife Biology, or Environmental Health
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Environmental Conservation and Wildlife Management
Department: Biodiversity Protection
Salary: 120,000 – 180,000 SSP
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zimbabwe is a global leader in wildlife protection and ecosystem preservation. With a focus on combating emerging threats to biodiversity, WCS operates in over 60 countries, including critical habitats in Zimbabwe. In Mana Pools National Park, WCS collaborates with local communities and government agencies to implement science-based conservation strategies. The organization prioritizes innovative approaches to wildlife health monitoring, ensuring sustainable coexistence between ecosystems and human populations. As a key partner in Zimbabwe’s conservation sector, WCS offers career opportunities for professionals dedicated to safeguarding Africa’s natural heritage.
Job Overview
This role is central to monitoring and mitigating zoonotic disease risks in Mana Pools’ ecosystems. The position requires expertise in wildlife health assessments, data collection, and collaboration with veterinary teams. The successful candidate will contribute to WCS’s mission of preserving biodiversity through proactive disease surveillance. Learn more about Zimbabwe Jobs and career opportunities in environmental conservation.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct field surveys to monitor wildlife health indicators and disease patterns
- Collect and analyze biological samples for pathogen detection
- Develop community education programs on zoonotic disease prevention
- Maintain detailed records of surveillance data for research and reporting
- Coordinate with government agencies on wildlife health policy implementation
li>Collaborate with veterinary teams on emergency wildlife health responses
Required Skills
- Proficiency in GIS mapping for disease hotspots
- Experience with laboratory sample handling protocols
- Strong analytical skills for interpreting epidemiological data
- Ability to work in remote field conditions
- Excellent communication for stakeholder engagement
- Knowledge of CITES regulations and wildlife health standards
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science, Wildlife Biology, or Environmental Health. Advanced certification in epidemiology or wildlife disease management is preferred.
Experience
3-5 years in wildlife health monitoring, disease surveillance, or related field. Experience in African conservation contexts is advantageous.
Salary
120,000 – 180,000 SSP per month, commensurate with experience.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Field equipment and safety gear provision
- Professional development stipend
- Relocation assistance for international candidates
- Annual leave with extended fieldwork flexibility
- Participation in global conservation conferences
Training
- Wildlife disease diagnostics certification
- Advanced GIS for conservation applications
- Emergency response protocols for zoonotic outbreaks
- Community engagement techniques for conservation
- Wildlife sample preservation and transportation
- Remote fieldwork safety and survival training
Working Environment
The role involves split-time between field operations in Mana Pools National Park and administrative work in Harare. Candidates must be prepared for variable weather conditions, extended field deployments, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. The position requires occasional travel to regional conservation hubs and international conferences.
Application Process
Submit your CV and cover letter to the official application portal. Applications must include three professional references and a statement of conservation values. For more Jobs in Zimbabwe, explore regional opportunities across Africa.
Equal Opportunity Statement
WCS Zimbabwe is committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background. Our hiring process prioritizes merit and potential contributions to conservation science.
