Community Engagement Coordinator

About the role

The Community Engagement Coordinator will act as the primary link between IFAW and the communities surrounding Lukusuzi and Luambe National Parks in Zambia’s Eastern Province. Reporting to the Field Operations Manager, the role supports IFAW’s Room to Roam initiative by fostering human‑wildlife coexistence and empowering local people as co‑stewards of their ecosystems.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate the implementation and periodic review of IFAW’s community engagement approach in Eastern Province, ensuring alignment with the Room to Roam framework and national conservation priorities.
• Serve as the day‑to‑day focal point for community engagement, providing field‑based insights to program teams and Zambian partners.
• Engage with traditional leaders, Community Resource Boards, and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife to design and deliver effective coexistence activities.
• Build and maintain relationships with district‑level leaders and councils, aligning IFAW’s programs with local development plans.
• Support land‑use planning processes at community and district levels to secure wildlife corridors and mitigate habitat fragmentation.
• Coordinate Primary Response Teams, including patrol tracking, reactive deployments, awareness meetings, and inventory management.

Required profile

• Strong political and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse community groups and traditional authorities.
• Proven ability to build trust and facilitate dialogue among stakeholders.
• Commitment to equity and inclusion, with a focus on empowering women and youth.
• Experience coordinating community‑based conservation or development initiatives.
• Ability to identify community needs, risks, and priorities to inform program design.

Required skills