Vacancy announcement
Project Coordinator
Location: Ambondrolava, SW Madagascar
Duration: 12 months, extendable
Starting date: February 2015
About Honko
Founded in 2008, Honko Mangrove Conservation & Education is a Belgian NGO that works in southwest Madagascar, one of the poorest regions of the world. Honko’s goal is to work in partnership with local communities to promote mangrove conservation and improve community resilience and quality of live through the promotion of alternative livelihoods. Furthermore, Honko has established an information center and boardwalk through the mangroves for ecotourism, and also supported the establishment of the local community-based association devoted to mangrove management and continues to work alongside their association to build their capacity to take complete ownership over sustainable management and restoration activities.
A range of projects help Honko pursue its mission, including local capacity building, fish farming, apiculture, alternative fuel wood plantation, environmental education, ecotourism, women’s association activities, and long-term mangrove monitoring research. Furthermore, Honko’s year-round volunteer program attracts international volunteers staying for up to 3 months assisting with mangrove ecology research and community development projects. Honko also hosts a number of Malagasy and foreign students conducting research projects in both natural and social sciences at our site in Ambondrolava. To learn more about Honko’s projects, find us online at www.honko.org, on Facebook, and our blog where we post regular updates on all of Honko's community and conservation initiatives.
Project Coordinator position
Honko is looking for a Project Coordinator to help coordinate Honko’s multiple ongoing projects, supervise Honko’s 6 local staff, assist with volunteer management, and on occasion supervise visiting local and international students’ research. You will work alongside the on-site Project Manager and report to Honko’s off-site director. The position is based at Honko’s center in the village of Ambondrolava, 12km north of the regional capital Tulear in SW Madagascar.
Responsibilities
- Supervision and daily management of Honko’s projects and staff
- Work with the Project Manager to plan and manage projects and ensure that all implemented activities fall within the framework of Honko’s mission
- Supervise volunteers and students (local and international) conducting research at Honko, including creation of viable and cohesive short-term studies to study abroad students
- Maintain liaison with Honko’s partners and supervise activities carried out in collaboration with such partners, including but not limited to WWF, Blue Ventures, and nearby marine research institute
- Represent the NGO to the local community, partners, universities, government officials, and tour operators among other entities
- Assist with promotional efforts for Honko’s ecotourism site, maintaining and building on Honko’s current partnership with area hotels and tour operators both in Madagascar and abroad
- Coordinate with and assist Honko’s off-site volunteer staff on fundraising and social media activities
Potential additional responsibilities regarding the implementation of a Plan Vivo blue carbon project, dependent on funding.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, forestry, environmental studies, agronomy, or related subject
- Project and financial management experience in community development, sustainable development, or conservation
- Experience working in a multi-cultural or international setting, especially in the field of conservation or in a developing country
- Field research experience in forest, marine and/or freshwater ecology, particularly supervision of student projects
- Proficiency in French and English
Desired Qualifications
- Master’s degree in one of the subjects listed above (or related)
- Research experience with mangrove/wetland ecosystems, bird diversity, crab behavior/diversity, and/or fisheries
- Willingness to learn Malagasy language basics
Desired Attributes
- Adaptability and diplomacy for living and working in a rural area
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and think on your feet
Contract Period
Position begins early February 2015 and will be filled by the first qualified applicant. Ideal candidate can commit at least 12 months, please state your availability in your cover letter.
Salary and Benefits
- All food and accommodation costs covered (includes local transportation; excludes flights, visas, insurance) and additional stipend of 50 euro/month
- 800 euro flight allowance upon completion of 12 month contract
- Accommodations at the edge of the mangroves
- A challenging position focusing on actual themes, support by a small dedicated local team, and an enriching experience in a fascinating environment
- Opportunity to gain valuable project management experience in an international setting
- Chances to collaborate and network with other conservation NGOs and professionals in SW region
Application
Send your CV and cover letter to jobs@honko.org. We will consider and interview applicants as we receive applications and fill the position with the first qualified applicant. Please mention in your cover letter where you found this listing.
