JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Assistant Conservation Officer
SALARY BAND: SG 7
RESPONSIBLE TO: Assomption Conservation Coordinator
LOCATION: Assomption Island with occasional support duties on Mahé and Aldabra
HOURS OF WORK: 40 hours per week (expected to work overtime)
(including weekends and public holidays as required by field schedule)
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CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND
The Assomption Assistant Conservation Officer (ACO) provides field and administrative support to the Conservation Officer and Assomption Conservation Coordinator. The role assists in implementing conservation, biosecurity, and environmental monitoring activities throughout the construction and future operation of the hotel development.
The ACO works under supervision and contributes to compliance with the Biosecurity Management Plan and Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP). The primary duties are listed below, but they are not all-inclusive, as there may be unplanned duties that are impossible to predict or describe here and may change over time.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Biosecurity Implementation Support
- Assist with routine biosecurity checks for materials, equipment, supplies, and personnel.
- Support preparation and organisation of materials for transport between Mahé, Assomption, and Aldabra.
- Follow established biosecurity procedures and protocols under supervision.
- Assist Conservation Officers during inspections and site checks.
- Report any observed biosecurity risks, breaches, or irregularities to supervisors.
- Provide logistical support during staff and cargo movements when required.
B. Scientific Monitoring and Field Support
- Assist in biodiversity surveys and routine environmental monitoring activities.
- Collect field data (e.g., species observations, environmental indicators) under guidance until fully trained.
- Support baseline and ongoing monitoring activities such as vegetation checks, wildlife observations, and environmental condition assessments.
- Maintain field equipment and assist in setting up monitoring tools and survey sites.
- Record and organise data accurately for review by senior staff.
- Provide basic support to visiting researchers, scientists, and volunteers as directed.
C. Reporting and Administrative Support
- Assist in maintaining accurate field logs, checklists, and monitoring records.
- Support data entry and organisation for reporting purposes.
- Contribute information for routine reports as requested by supervisors.
- Report minor issues and observations promptly to the Conservation Officer.
- Immediately escalate serious environmental or biosecurity concerns.
- 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 fieldwork, or related support roles (entry-level candidates may be considered).
- Basic understanding of biodiversity monitoring, conservation practices, or biosecurity is an advantage.
- Experience in data recording or fieldwork is desirable.
SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
- Basic understanding of conservation principles and environmental protection.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols accurately.
- Good organisational and record-keeping skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team and follow instructions.
- Willingness to learn and develop field and technical skills.
- Physically fit and able to work in remote and challenging island environments.
- Professional, reliable, and safety-conscious.