Small Cat Research Project Officer

About Panthera Corporation

Founded in 2006, Panthera is devoted to the conservation of the world’s 40 species of wild cats and the vast ecosystems they inhabit. Our team of biologists, data scientists, law enforcement experts and wild cat advocates studies and protects the seven species of big cats: cheetahs, jaguars, leopards, lions, pumas, snow leopards and tigers. Panthera also creates targeted conservation strategies for the world’s most threatened and overlooked small cats. With our supporters around the world, we inform the public about the plight of wild cats, help local communities live in harmony with wild cats, protect wild cats and their prey from poaching, fight the illegal wildlife trade and safeguard the precious landscapes wild cats need to survive.

Position Title: Small Cat Research Project Officer

Location:        Based in Kanchanaburi, Thailand – Halabala Wildlife Research Station (HLBLWRS)

Reports to:        Head of HLBLWRS and Small Cat Research Project Manager (SCRPM)

Summary/Position Overview

The key purpose of this Thailand-based position is to provide support to the Head of Halabala Wildlife Research Station (HLBLWRS) and is to assist in the development of small cat work across the country in line with the Small cats regional priorities with the SCRPM to conduct Small cats population and prey survey and other related activities. This will primarily consist of logistical preparation for field activities, data collection, coordination of field teams, data entry and analysis, equipment management, and contributions to reports. This position will also offer opportunities for professional development in the fields of applied ecology and conservation through workshops and study trips.

Major Responsibilities

Project Management

• During field work periods, this person will be responsible for coordinating and collecting data to ensure that fieldwork complete as planned.
• The Small cats Research Officer will responsible for management and take care of field equipment especially camera traps to be used effectively.
• Work with Head of HLBLWRS to conduct Flat-headed cats population in a scientific and professional manner.
• Work with Head of HLBLWRS and Small cats Research Project Manager to manage data in a systematic manner and assist with the analysis of data.
• Assist Head of HLBLWRS and Small cats Research Project Manager with the production of project materials (e.g. reports and other communication materials) as needed
• Assist Head of HLBLWRS and Small cats Research Project Manager with the organisation and implementation of training programs for DNP staff to carry out camera trap activities independently.
• Work with Head of HLBLWRS with the management of equipment and supplies for project work, maintaining inventories and coordinating resupplies when needed.

Development and Reporting

• Work with Head of HLBLWRS and Small cats Research Project Manager to development and implement plans for Flat-Headed Cats research activities, particularly ecological and population monitoring for wild cat species at HLBL Landscape.
• Assist Head of HLBLWRS and Small cats Research Project Manager on the development of progress reports in Thai and/or English for all Science and Research work.
• Attend training courses as assigned by Head of HLBLWRS.
• Improve knowledge of and practice the use of English language in the office.
• Work with Head of HLBLWRS and Small cats Research Project Manager on the systematic analysis of project data and development of project outputs.

Building Relationships

• The applicant must be able to maintain to good working relationships with Head of HLBLWRS and Small cats Research Project Manager staff including rangers.
• Attend conferences and seminars to communicate the HLBLWRS and Panthera's wild cat conservation work (presentations, or poster displays)

Requirements

• Post holder must have outstanding attention to detail for all work assigned.
• The Small cats Research Officer must be able to make informed and logical decisions that represent the best interests of wildlife conservation and Panthera, while being able to adapt plans whilst still achieving activities objectives.
• The Small cats Research Officer must be able to resolve minor conflicts encountered during work. An ability to discuss challenges and identify suitable solutions is critical.
• The Small cats Research Officer must be willing to occasionally ‘crossover’ and assist on other projects that assigned by the Head of HLBLWRS.
• The Small cats Research Officer is primarily office based but will require extensive work outdoors with direct exposure to the weather and other environmental variables and will therefore need to maintain a high level of fitness.

Qualifications & Experience Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor of Science, preferably in a field such as Wildlife Management, Conservation Biology, Wildlife Ecology. Candidates with post-graduate qualifications are preferred
• At least 1 years of previous experience developing and implementing scientific research.
• At least 1 year of experience using camera trap data management and analysis tools.
• Prior experience in coordinating conservation projects, particularly in managing budgets and work planning

Knowledge

• Knowledge of species conservation principles and an understanding of approaches to wildlife surveys techniques, particularly survey design and data analysis methodologies
• Knowledge of wild cat, ungulate, and forest Ecology in Southeast Asia
• An understanding of the current challenges facing conservation in Thailand
• Knowledge of Thai conventions, acts, decrees, laws and regulations related to wildlife trade and law enforcement, especially pertaining to wildcats.
• Working knowledge of the protected area and wildlife law enforcement principles and operations
• An understanding of project management processes

Skills & Abilities

• Intermediate communication skills, both written and verbal in Thai, and good communication skills in English.
• Drive to learn new things and skills and be at the cutting edge of conservation
• Well-developed skills in using MS office packages, specifically Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Intermediate skills using statistical and Analytical packages such as R.
• Advanced skills in mapping and spatial analysis using QGIS or ArcGIS.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills, both face to face and in writing.
• An ability to manage competing priorities.
• Proven ability to work effectively with multi-agency teams and provide leadership.
• Physically fit and willing to undertake fieldwork in remote locations.
• Valid driving license for manual transmission vehicles.

Other Requirements

The Small Cat Research Project Officer must possess the ability to travel extensively and hold a current and valid driver’s license. The position requires flexibility to work outside standard office hours, including weekends, and the capability to conduct fieldwork for extended periods. As the research area is located in a potentially hazardous zone, a high level of caution and adherence to safety protocols is essential while performing duties in the field.

How To Apply

Interested candidates may submit their most updated CV, along with a cover letter to the Panthera Careers Page. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. The application closing date is Monday, February 10, 2025.