Conservation Pilot

Description

• This position is responsible for undertaking aerial patrol flights in support of law enforcement, supporting aerial biomonitoring applications, and providing logistical support to the project operations in NSR. The position is a full-time, field-based position based out of the NSR HQ. Although professional pilot duties are a central component of this job, this position requires a broader engagement and involvement with the objective to strengthen the site level development of a professionally structured and safety centered air wing operation, directly contributing to the capacity of the conservation project. Motivation to learn and work as a team, find solutions to problems and be proactive will be critical in successfully implementing the aviation objectives. The position also includes some technical reporting, writing and administration. The WCS NSR pilot reports to the site based NSR Conservation Manager on operational and day-to-day administrative aspects and to the WCS Aviation Fleet Manager in regard to aviation safety, aircraft administrative and maintenance management

Objectives

• Provide expert Pilot in Command (PIC) skills to implement aviation support activities safely and efficiently
• Deliver a safety centered aviation operation and work culture based on WCS aviation management guidelines and strategies and in compliance with national, international and FAA regulations
• Strengthen WCS aviation wing effectiveness to measurably contribute to the organization conservation goals

Duties

Piloting

• Expert application to safely pilot aircraft (PIC) for aviation logistical support to park operations and resource protection activities and monitoring
• Strictly adhere to procedures in place for all flight operations
• Ascertain all necessary aircraft documents are in place, up to date and according to relevant international and national aviation laws
• Maintain a detailed flight log report of all flights and hours flown, including location, passengers, purpose, and duration

Aviation Operations

• Oversee and maintain the highest standards in aircraft management and operation, following regulations, legal requirements and maintenance plans as required
• Assure all aircraft documents are in place, updated and maintained
• Maintain the aircraft in a pristine, clean, and well-managed state, including regular cleaning of the airframe, engine compartment and equipment
• Assure aircraft is always fully secured
• Train any staff involved in aviation operations on safety around aircraft and procedures
• Manage all survey and surveillance equipment assigned to the aviation wing
• Manage aviation stocks and plan accordingly for procurement (avgas, oils and other usable)
• Manage aviation facilities (office, stores, and hangar) and equipment and assure the condition of the airstrip is according to agreed standards and operational needs
• Support local arrangements and logistics to aviation maintenance needs
• Manage aviation operations finances in collaboration with the assigned finance manager, including managing BP fuel account and all operational costs (landing and navigation fees, passenger fees etc.)
• Maintain regular coordination and planning meetings concerning aviation operations with WCS Conservation Manager
• Closely liaise with the project logistics manager for aviation logistics (transport, fuel, oils) and documentation (aircraft and flight clearance)
• Participate in regular planning meetings and develop annual plans/budgets for the NSR Aviation Unit

Aviation Safety Management

• Assure the WCS Standard Operation Procedures are fully implemented in all operations and any requirements communicated by the WCS Fleet Manager
• Report all safety concerns, incidences and hazards and fully contribute and interact with the WCS Safety Management System as prescribed
• Maintain the highest safety standards at all times
• Conduct regular internal evaluations, as agreed upon by the WCS Fleet manager and part of the WCS aviation SMS on operations
• Report all aircraft issues and snags through the established procedures (online) and via direct communications with the WCS Fleet Manager

Requisites

• Current commercial pilot license with instrument rating, high performance and complex sign-off/endorsement FAA or equivalent second class medical certificate
• 400 hours PIC flying experience and solid knowledge of operating under international regulations
• Experience in Africa is an advantage
• High-performance piston engine time is required, preferably on C206 model or similar
• Experience with wildlife surveys, anti-poaching surveillance and bush flying in remote areas is an advantage
• Experience flying underpart 135 and/or A & P license is an advantage
• Ability to communicate effectively within cross-cultural teams or varied capacity, both orally and in writing, in working out solutions to problems or questions related to work
• Willingness and motivation to be based and live in a challenging and remote location
• English fluency required, Portuguese and/or Swahili an advantage

Notes

• Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted
• Expected travel: The position is expected to travel across Niassa Special Reserve and areas within northern Mozambique and with some national and international travel, as required
• WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate for employment based on gender, race/ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, caste, genetic information, or any other covered status or characteristic protected by laws and regulations/and similar categories
• It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that we do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based upon a person’s membership in one of these protected categories in areas such as recruitment, selection, job assignment, supervision, training, promotions, job grading, transfers, termination, compensation, benefits, educational opportunities, WCS sponsored recreational activities and facilities
• The organization complies with the spirit and intent of relevant local laws and WCS’s employment policies
• Applicants must have the right to work in Mozambique at the time of application