Operations and Conservation Supervisor (OCS)

Position Title: Operations and Conservation Supervisor (OCS) – Intensive Protection Zone (IPZ), Lufupa SectorReports to: Field Operations Manager – Lufupa SectorLocation: Kafue National Park (Greater Kafue Landscape Limited – GKLL)Type of Contract: Fixed Term ContractBackgroundAfrican Parks is a non-profit conservation organisation that takes on responsibility for the long-term management of protected areas in partnership with governments and local communities. African Parks manages 24 protected areas in 13 countries covering over 20 million hectares in Angola, Benin, Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, the Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Rwanda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.Kafue National Park is one of Africa’s largest and most important conservation landscapes and is managed by African Parks in partnership with the Government of Zambia under Greater Kafue Landscape Limited (GKLL).Job PurposeThe Operations and Conservation Supervisor (OCS) for the Intensive Protection Zone (IPZ) in the Lufupa Sector is a critical frontline leadership role responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of law enforcement, conservation, and operational functions within a high-security, high-value conservation area.The role requires an individual capable of operating independently in remote environments, making sound decisions under pressure, and taking full responsibility for operational outcomes. The OCS must demonstrate a solutions-driven mindset, strong personal integrity, and a commitment to conservation law enforcement best practice, particularly in the protection of rhino and other high-value species.The OCS serves as a key link between field-based teams and sector leadership, ensuring that operational priorities are translated into effective, disciplined, and accountable execution on the ground.Key Responsibilities Law Enforcement and IPZ OperationsSupport and coordinate daily law enforcement operations within the IPZ, ensuring compliance with park regulations, AP SOPs, and national legislationAssist in the deployment, supervision, and logistical support of field teams, including rhino monitoring units and specialised teamsMaintain strict oversight of law enforcement protocols, access control, and operational discipline within the IPZSupport incident response, reporting, and follow-up on security, wildlife crime, and operational incidentsUphold and reinforce high ethical standards and accountability in all enforcement activities Conservation ManagementLead and oversee conservation operations within the IPZ, including:Rhino monitoring and managementFire management and controlled burning programmesWildlife monitoring and reportingSupport to wildlife introductions/removals where requiredHabitat management and ecological integrity initiativesManage and direct general works and fire teams, ensuring productivity, safety, and adherence to conservation objectives Operational and Logistical ManagementAssist in coordinating logistical support to other departments, including Law Enforcement, Technical, Community, and Commercial teamsEnsure effective asset and infrastructure management, including:Vehicle fleet, equipment, and toolsField camps and operational infrastructureMonitor and report maintenance requirements proactively to ensure operational readiness at all times Staff Management and LeadershipProvide direct supervision and leadership to assigned teamsAllocate and monitor daily tasks, ensuring high standards of performance and accountabilityEnforce discipline in line with organisational policies and code of conductMentor and develop staff to strengthen operational effectiveness, integrity, and resilienceManage staff welfare and ensure adherence to safety protocols Acting Operational OversightAssume full operational responsibility for the sector/IPZ in the absence of the Field Operations ManagerMake informed, independent decisions to ensure continuity of operations under dynamic field conditions GeneralUndertake any other lawful and reasonable duties as directed by any Field Operations Manager or Park ManagerCandidate Profile and CompetenciesThe ideal candidate must demonstrate:Ability to work independently in remote, high-pressure environmentsStrong problem-solving and decision-making capabilityHigh level of personal discipline, integrity, and accountabilityProven ability to lead, motivate, and manage teams effectivelyStrong commitment to conservation objectives and law enforcement standardsAbility to translate strategy into practical field operationsMinimum Qualifications and ExperienceDegree or Diploma in:Nature ConservationEnvironmental ManagementWildlife ManagementForestry or related fieldMinimum 3 years’ relevant work experience (supervisory or project management experience advantageous)Demonstrated willingness and ability to work in the field, particularly in high-value wildlife protection environments (e.g. rhino)Valid professional driver’s licence with no restrictionsAdded Advantages:Heavy-duty driving, motorbike, or coxswain certificationExperience in law enforcement or protected area operationsExperience working in remote or high-risk conservation areasSkills and AttributesExcellent English communication skillsStrong report writing and presentation abilityGood computer literacy (Microsoft Office)Physically fit and capable of working in demanding terrain and conditionsApplication RequirementsClean record and traceable referencesCV with cover letter detailing suitability for the roleMinimum of two contactable referencesCertified copies of NRC and qualificationsSubmission DetailsApplications must be submitted to the GKLL Human Resources Manager via: Simplify-Hr platform and attach all relevant supporting documents before the set closing date 01 July 2026DisclaimerGKLL/African Parks Zambia is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fair and non-discriminatory recruitment practices. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, tribe, ethnic origin, place of origin, political opinion, colour, creed, sex, marital status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under Zambian law.All applications will be reviewed; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. GKLL reserves the right not to make an appointment following the recruitment process.