JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Assistant Biosecurity Officer (ABO)
SALARY BAND: SG 7
RESPONSIBLE TO: Senior Biosecurity Officer
LOCATION: Head Office (with support duties on outer islands (including Assomption and Aldabra, as required)
HOURS OF WORK: 40 hours per week (will be required to work overtime on weekends and public holidays as required by operational schedules)
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CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND
The Assistant Biosecurity Officer (ABO) provides operational and administrative support to the Biosecurity Officer and wider biosecurity team. The role focuses on assisting with the implementation of biosecurity measures, maintaining records, and supporting monitoring activities.
The ABO works under supervision and contributes to ensuring compliance with Biosecurity Management Plans (BMPs) and Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), without holding primary responsibility for coordination or decision-making.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Biosecurity Implementation Support
- Assist in the implementation of routine biosecurity checks for materials, supplies, equipment, and personnel.
- Support inspections by preparing materials, checklists, and documentation.
- Follow established biosecurity protocols and procedures under supervision.
- Assist with the preparation and organisation of supplies for transport to outer islands.
- Provide logistical support during vessel and aircraft clearances when required.
- Report any observed risks or irregularities to the supervising Biosecurity Officer.
B. Monitoring and Data Collection
- Assist with basic environmental and biosecurity monitoring activities (e.g., invasive species checks, visual inspections).
- Collect and record field data accurately under guidance.
- Maintain and update inspection logs, checklists, and monitoring records.
- Support data entry and organisation of datasets for reporting purposes.
- Assist visiting staff or volunteers with simple monitoring tasks when directed.
C. Reporting and Administrative Support
- Assist in compiling routine reports by gathering data and maintaining records.
- Ensure all inspection and monitoring documentation is complete and properly filed.
- Report minor issues or observations to the Biosecurity Officer.
- Immediately escalate any serious concerns to supervisors.
- Participate in team meetings and provide updates on assigned tasks.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Diploma or BSc (or working toward) in Environmental Science, Conservation, or a related field (preferred).
- Up to 2 years’ experience in conservation, environmental work, or biosecurity support (entry-level candidates may be considered).
- Basic understanding of biosecurity, invasive species, or environmental monitoring is an advantage.
- Experience with data entry and record keeping is desirable.
SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
- Basic understanding of biosecurity principles and environmental protection.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures accurately.
- Good organisational and record-keeping skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team under supervision.
- Willingness to learn and develop technical skills.
- Physically fit and able to work in field conditions when required.