The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is one of the world’s leading international conservation organizations dedicated to protecting wildlife, wild places, and biodiversity across the globe. With operations in over 60 countries, WCS works at the intersection of science, conservation, and community development to ensure that ecosystems and wildlife can thrive alongside human populations.
The organization is currently hiring a Field Project Coordinator (AFI), a key position designed for experienced professionals in conservation, project management, and field operations. This role is essential in supporting WCS’s field-based programs, ensuring effective implementation of conservation projects, and strengthening collaboration with local communities, government agencies, and partner organizations.
This opportunity is ideal for individuals passionate about environmental conservation, biodiversity protection, and sustainable development in Africa and beyond.
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
The Wildlife Conservation Society is a U.S.-based non-profit organization founded in 1895. It is headquartered at the Bronx Zoo in New York and operates one of the largest global conservation networks.
WCS focuses on:
- Wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection
- Protected area management
- Climate change adaptation strategies
- Community-based conservation programs
- Scientific research and ecological monitoring
The organization is widely recognized for combining science-based research with practical conservation action, making it one of the most influential environmental NGOs in the world.
In Africa, WCS plays a major role in conservation efforts across Central Africa, West Africa, East Africa, and other regions, working closely with governments, donors, and local communities.
Position Overview: Field Project Coordinator (AFI)
The Field Project Coordinator (AFI) is responsible for supporting the planning, coordination, and implementation of field conservation projects. This role involves working directly in project locations, often in remote or rural environments, to ensure that conservation activities are delivered effectively and on time.
The position requires strong project management skills, field experience, and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders including local communities, government agencies, and technical experts.
This is a mid-level to senior field position within WCS’s conservation structure.
Key Responsibilities
The Field Project Coordinator will be responsible for a wide range of tasks related to project implementation and coordination.
1. Project Planning and Implementation
The coordinator will support the planning and execution of conservation projects by:
- Developing and managing project work plans
- Ensuring timely implementation of field activities
- Supporting project budgeting and resource allocation
- Coordinating logistics for field operations
These tasks ensure that conservation projects are implemented efficiently and aligned with organizational goals.
2. Field Coordination and Supervision
A major part of the role involves working directly in the field.
Responsibilities include:
- Supervising field staff and project teams
- Monitoring ongoing project activities
- Ensuring compliance with project guidelines
- Supporting data collection and field reporting
The coordinator plays a critical role in maintaining the quality and effectiveness of field operations.
3. Community Engagement and Stakeholder Collaboration
WCS emphasizes working closely with local communities and stakeholders.
The Field Project Coordinator will:
- Engage with local communities in conservation areas
- Facilitate communication between stakeholders
- Support community-based conservation initiatives
- Build trust and cooperation with local populations
This helps ensure that conservation efforts are sustainable and community-driven.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation
The role also involves tracking project performance and impact.
Key duties include:
- Collecting field data and project indicators
- Supporting monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems
- Reporting on project outcomes and challenges
- Ensuring data accuracy for donor reporting
Monitoring is essential for measuring the success of conservation programs.
5. Reporting and Documentation
The coordinator will be responsible for preparing reports and documentation, including:
- Field activity reports
- Progress updates for donors and management
- Documentation of project outcomes
- Communication materials for stakeholders
Strong reporting ensures transparency and accountability.
6. Logistics and Operational Support
Field conservation projects often require complex logistics.
The coordinator will:
- Support transport and field logistics
- Manage equipment and supplies
- Coordinate travel to remote project sites
- Assist in operational planning
This ensures smooth execution of fieldwork activities.
Required Qualifications
Applicants for the Field Project Coordinator position are expected to have strong academic and professional backgrounds in conservation or related fields.
Typical requirements include:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in environmental science, conservation biology, natural resource management, or related discipline
- At least 3–5 years of experience in project coordination or field conservation work
- Experience working in remote or rural environments
- Strong understanding of biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management
- Ability to work with multicultural teams and stakeholders
- Excellent communication and reporting skills
- Willingness to travel frequently to field locations
Experience with NGOs or international organizations is often an added advantage.
Skills Required
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong project management skills
- Leadership and team coordination ability
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Data collection and analysis skills
- Community engagement experience
- Adaptability to field conditions
- Excellent written and verbal communication
These skills are essential for managing conservation projects in challenging environments.
Why Work with Wildlife Conservation Society?
Working with WCS offers professionals the opportunity to contribute directly to global conservation efforts.
Key benefits include:
1. Global Impact
Employees contribute to protecting endangered species and ecosystems worldwide.
2. Field Experience
The role provides hands-on experience in real conservation environments.
3. Career Development
WCS offers opportunities for professional growth in environmental and conservation careers.
4. International Exposure
Staff work with global teams, donors, and partners across multiple countries.
5. Meaningful Work
Employees directly contribute to protecting biodiversity and supporting local communities.
Who Should Apply?
This position is ideal for:
- Conservation officers
- Field project coordinators
- Environmental researchers
- NGO workers in biodiversity programs
- Natural resource management professionals
- Development project officers
Candidates passionate about wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Process
Interested applicants are advised to:
- Review the full job description carefully
- Prepare an updated CV highlighting relevant experience
- Write a strong cover letter showing field experience and motivation
- Submit application through the official WCS recruitment portal
Early application is strongly recommended due to competitive selection.
Application Deadline
The application deadline varies depending on recruitment cycles. Applicants should ensure they apply as soon as possible to avoid missing the closing date.
Application Link
Interested candidates and qualified persons (Nigeria Nationals Only) with the matched skill set and experience should apply by here
https://nigeria.wcs.org/Staff/career1/ID/26261/Field-Project-Coordinator-Afi.aspx
The Advert opens from 7th June 2026 to 25th June 2025.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
WCS is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value. Females are strongly advised to apply. WCS would never ask or request you to pay for applying for a position.
Final Thoughts
The Field Project Coordinator (AFI) role at the Wildlife Conservation Society represents an excellent opportunity for professionals interested in conservation, field research, and environmental project management. With its strong global presence and commitment to biodiversity protection, WCS provides a meaningful career path for individuals who want to make a real impact on nature and communities.
For candidates with field experience and a passion for conservation, this role offers not only professional growth but also the chance to contribute to one of the most important missions in global environmental protection.
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