Aerial support and Field Operations Manager
African Parks
Bryanston
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Job Reference Number: AP-374
Department: Operations
Industry: Admin/Office Support
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
African Parks is looking for an Aerial support and Field Operations Manager
Job Description
Role Context
African Parks (AP) supports the Government of Botswana in KTP through a cooperative, capacity-building partnership, without a delegated management mandate.
The role contributes to progression toward a future mandate through demonstrated operational performance, effective collaboration, and strengthened systems.
Focused on aviation support while providing a Field Operations Management function within the Botswana section of the operation. Involvement in the South African section is only on specific, agreed request.
A core requirement is building local capacity and systems to ensure sustainable operations.
Primary Purpose
To provide safe, compliant, and effective aerial support for conservation, monitoring, and logistics in the Botswana section of KTP, while strengthening field operations through hands-on management, mentoring, and capacity development of local staff. The role embeds AP operational standards and systems to enable progressive transfer of responsibility to local counterparts.
Aerial support includes patrols and remote-area monitoring and oversight, supporting partner-led law enforcement functions, which remain the responsibility of the relevant authorities.
Key Responsibilities
A. Aerial Support.
• Conduct flights in support of park operations
• Ensure aviation safety, compliance, and documentation
• Coordinate aircraft maintenance and airworthiness
• Support airstrip management
• Provide aviation knowledge transfer where appropriate
B. Field Operations
Operations Planning & Coordination
• Support development and implementation of annual plans and budgets
• Coordinate infrastructure, fleet, logistics, and monitoring support
Capacity Development
• Mentor and coach local staff
• Embed SOPs and operational standards
• Support localisation of skills and responsibility
Infrastructure, Fleet & Logistics
• Support maintenance planning and delivery
• Strengthen fleet and logistics systems
• Support procurement and contractor coordination
Law Enforcement Support
• Support government-led law enforcement through logistics and coordination
• Promote cooperation and information sharing (no direct management role)
Compliance & Systems
• Support compliance with AP policies and donor requirements
• Strengthen operational systems and safety culture
Key Performance Indicators
Aerial Operations
• Zero safety incidents
• Full regulatory compliance
• High aircraft availability and accurate reporting
Field Operations
• Improved operational effectiveness and compliance
• Increased local staff capacity and independence
• Reduced operational bottlenecks
Success Indicators (3-Year Horizon)
• Strong local operational leadership
• Embedded systems and SOPs
• AP functioning in a clearly supportive role
• Safe, reliable aviation support
• Conditions established for a future mandate agreement
Job Requirements
Academic & experience required
• Must have a technical degree or national diploma with a conservation qualification highly advantageous.
• Strong technical background with a good understanding of basic construction methods, material calculations and standard designs
• Fair knowledge of mechanical systems, including vehicles and generators
• Results-driven, autonomous, and highly adaptable to South Sudan’s challenging operating environment, with willingness to travel extensively to remote field sites.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex or sensitive issues in multicultural and conflict-affected environments.
• Experience engaging positively with communities and governments in rural areas
Apply Here: https://tinyurl.com/3wnvmrrr