Job Opening: Assistant Park Instructor (Kafue National Park, Zambia)
Location: Kafue National Park
Department: Law Enforcement
Reports to: Law Enforcement Advisor
Organizational Overview
African Parks is a non-profit conservation organization committed to the full rehabilitation and long-term management of national parks in partnership with governments and local communities. The organization currently manages 23 national parks and protected areas in 13 countries, covering more than 20 million hectares. These countries include Angola, Benin, the Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, the Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Position Background and Purpose
To support the Park Instructor in delivering effective training that enhances the operational readiness, discipline, and tactical performance of rangers and law enforcement personnel. The role focuses on conducting field drills, supporting SOP implementation, managing training resources, and maintaining training records to ensure personnel are prepared for safe and effective field operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Training Support: Assist the Park Instructor in overseeing and executing training for rangers and law enforcement personnel to maintain operational readiness.
- Drill and Discipline: Lead field exercises, physical training, and tactical drills to ensure staff maintain the highest standards of discipline and fitness.
- SOP Implementation: Contribute to the development and enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for field operations and tactical training.
- Equipment Oversight: Assist in the management and maintenance of training equipment and assets to ensure they are mission-ready.
- Data and Reporting: Collect and organize training data to improve the accessibility and usability of performance metrics for the Park Instructor.
- Tasking Assistance: Provide recommendations for training focus areas based on identified gaps in field performance or emerging threats.
Collaboration and Information Sharing:
- Internal Liaison: Collaborate closely with rangers, field supervisors, and other law enforcement personnel within the park.
- Instructional Coordination: Support the Park Instructor by preparing training outputs and summaries for the Law Enforcement Advisor (LEA).
- Team Integration: Share critical information regarding personnel readiness and training needs with the LEA and broader management.
Qualifications & General Requirements:
- Grade 12 or higher
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical certificate
- Proven experience in tactical instruction or field training, preferably in a military, police, or wildlife law enforcement context.
- Strong leadership, coaching, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in documenting training progress and using basic data tools (e.g., Excel).
- Knowledge of Zambian wildlife laws and field craft is a distinct advantage.
- Experience working in a protected area or wilderness environment is desirable.
Skills & Competencies:
- Professional Curiosity: Ability to analyze training outcomes and identify areas for tactical improvement.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to training safety, discipline, and the accuracy of performance records.
- Integrity: High level of integrity and ethical conduct in the management of personnel.
Physical Fitness: Exceptional physical fitness and the ability to operate in challenging field conditions.
