The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) saves wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education and inspiring people to value nature.

WCS is an equal opportunity employer and seeks a Driver/Mechanic for working under the coordination of the Wildlife Conservation Society Ruaha-Katavi Landscape Program, Iringa, Tanzania.

Background:

The Ruaha-Katavi Landscape Program works with a variety of government, non-government and community partners to implement a wide range of activities aimed at strengthening the protection and improved management of threatened species, habitats and ecosystem services.

Description of the position:

• Driver/Mechanic will report to the Ruaha-Katavi Landscape Operations Manager.
• This is a mobile position, and the successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining a fleet of 4×4 vehicles, boats and a grader across an area encompassing a number of parks and game reserves of programmatic importance, with an administrative base in Iringa;
• The Driver / Mechanic will be responsible for the servicing and up keep of at least four Toyota Land cruiser pick-up trucks across three Game Reserve complexes as well as oversight of the servicing and maintenance of two fiber-glass patrol boats (fitted with 75HP Yamaha engines) as well as a XCDM GR125A grader;
• Provide additional vehicle maintenance support to other WCS program vehicles across the landscape as required;
• To track general vehicle /boat use and suggest areas requiring attention in terms of vehicle management / drivers work etc;
• Prepare and disseminate vehicle management protocols to drivers as needed;
• He/she shall be responsible for management and procurement of vehicle parts from time to time in coordination with the WCS Program Operations Manager;

Applicant attributes:

• Tanzanian National;
• Relevant vehicle mechanic training and certification, Trade test grade I from a recognized institution;
• Full, clean driving license with relevant endorsements;
• At least 5 years vehicle mechanic experience from a reputable organization (including hunting companies in particular) with proven experience in fleet management and mobile vehicle repairs under basic conditions;
• Working knowledge of the servicing and maintenance of Toyota Land Cruisers, graders and Yamaha boat engines in particular. Knowledge on maintenance of fiberglass boats an advantage;
• Proven extensive experience in off-road driving and associated risks and bush recovery techniques, including the use of winches, high-lift jacks, diff lock etc.
• Proven experience in managing vehicle records and parts inventories
• Ability to work with minimal supervision while maintaining highest levels of performance;
• Willingness to work long hours in bush conditions year round;
• Ability to train drivers on important vehicle handling procedures in bush conditions. • Familiarity with protected areas and/or hunting systems in Tanzania; Remuneration:

A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate.

Apply for this job

Applications should consist of a CV and cover letter. The CV must list three independent referees. Contact details for previous employers should also be provided. Salary expectations must also be specified. Applications should be sent to ekalashnikova@wcs.org