Assistant/Field officer - Biologist

Qualification: Post-graduate in Zoology/Wildlife Science or allied life sciences with at least 2-3 Years of professional experience in research and/or conservation.

Experience: 0-4 years

Role Context: The Field Officer – Biologist shall support the implementation of the Gandak Gharial Recovery Project with the objective of enhancing the abundance and distribution of Gharial populations through scientifically driven in-situ and ex-situ conservation interventions, ecological monitoring, habitat protection, stakeholder coordination, and community participation.

The incumbent shall be responsible for execution of field-based project activities, management of local volunteer networks, collection and analysis of ecological data, coordination with stakeholders, and support in establishment and operationalisation of ex-situ conservation facilities. The role requires regular field deployment in riverine landscapes and coordination with government departments, local communities, volunteers, and project teams to ensure effective implementation of project objectives. The key responsibilities are -

• Implement approved project activities in coordination with project team members and reporting authorities.

• Conduct river surveys, ecological assessments, and field monitoring activities for documenting the abundance, distribution, nesting, and habitat use of Gharials.

• Identify, monitor, and support protection of nesting sites and nesting habitats during breeding and hatching periods.

• Collect, collate, validate, and maintain ecological and project-related data in prescribed formats and digital databases.

• Conduct preliminary analysis of field data and contribute to preparation of technical reports, donor reports, and scientific documentation.

• Facilitate establishment and operationalisation of ex-situ conservation facilities and associated field activities.

• Manage and coordinate activities of local volunteer networks and field-level stakeholders for smooth implementation of project activities.

• Liaise with government departments, local NGOs, academic institutions, Panchayati Raj Institutions, and other stakeholders as assigned by the Project Head.

• Ensure proper maintenance, inventory management, and utilization of field stations, field camps, project equipment, and organizational assets.

• Ensure adherence to statutory requirements and organizational policies relevant to project implementation in coordination with the Project Head and HQ teams.

The Detailed Job Description Includes -

Project Planning, Management and Monitoring

• Provide inputs for preparation of Project Implementation Plans (PIPs), activity schedules, and monitoring frameworks.

• Implement assigned project activities as per approved timelines and project plans.

• Monitor field progress and support periodic review of project activities and outcomes.

• Support implementation of habitat management, conservation interventions, and community engagement initiatives under the project.

• Maintain regular communication with the Project Head regarding field progress, operational challenges, and conservation priorities.

Fund and Financial Management

• Utilize project funds allocated for assigned activities responsibly and in accordance with approved budgets and organizational financial procedures.

• Maintain records of field expenditures and supporting documentation related to project activities.

• Ensure efficient and accountable utilization of project resources, equipment, and materials.

• Ensure alignment with financial policies and compliance requirements of the organization.

Donor Coordination

• Support preparation of donor reports, interim reports, field updates, and project documentation in coordination with the Project Head.

• Assist in organizing donor visits, field reviews, and stakeholder interactions related to project implementation.

• Provide technical inputs, field data, photographs, and project updates for donor communication and reporting purposes.

External Communication and Coordination

• Liaise with Forest Department officials, line departments, local NGOs, academic institutions, local communities, and other stakeholders to facilitate smooth implementation of project activities.

• Support community outreach and stakeholder engagement initiatives related to Gharial conservation and riverine ecosystem management.

• Represent the organization professionally during field interactions and ensure that the image and values of the organization are upheld at all times.

• Facilitate coordination among volunteers, field teams, and stakeholders for effective implementation of conservation interventions.

• Work collaboratively with project staff, volunteers, frontline personnel, researchers, and stakeholders to achieve project objectives.

MIS and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and updated databases, field records, monitoring datasets, survey forms, and project documentation.

• Ensure timely sharing of field data and project information with team members and HQ through designated project data management systems.

• Maintain records of primary data collectors and ensure proper documentation for future acknowledgment and credit sharing.

• Prepare and submit monthly reports, technical updates, survey summaries, and activity reports within stipulated timelines.

• Ensure regular sharing of project photographs, videos, and communication materials with the Communication Division for outreach and branding purposes.

• Contribute to preparation of scientific manuscripts, technical reports, presentations, and conservation knowledge products arising from project activities.

• Support presentation and dissemination of project achievements at national and international forums, workshops, and scientific platforms as required.

Any Other Responsibilities

• Assist in organizing trainings, workshops, awareness campaigns, stakeholder consultations, and conservation outreach programmes related to the project.

• Undertake any other responsibilities assigned by the Project Head, Division Head, or the organization from time to time in the interest of the project and organizational objectives.

Good To Have Skills -

• Proven skills in ecological survey design, field survey, and execution of research and conservation project in terrestrial and/or aquatic ecosystems.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary and multicultural teams, with commitment to teamwork and collaboration.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, and local communities.

• Experience in aquatic ecosystems, preferably focused on crocodilian / testudines’ species would be of added advantage.

• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., R, SPSS) and GIS tools for spatial analysis and mapping.

• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to multitask, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Publication(s) in national or inter-national peer-reviewed journal.