LOCAL CONSERVATION SPECIALIST ( ERROMANGO ISLAND )

VACANCY NOTICE
LOCAL CONSERVATION SPECIALIST

Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC)

Project Duration: 2026 – 2030
Duty Station: Erromango Island
Salary Scale: PS 4.5

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC) is implementing the GEF-8 Project: “Restoring and Protecting Biodiversity, Coastal Landscapes, and Climate Change Resilience through Nature-Based Solutions, Women and Youth Entrepreneurship.”

This four-year initiative aims to strengthen biodiversity conservation, enhance climate resilience, and promote sustainable livelihoods through nature-based solutions across selected islands of Vanuatu.

To support the successful implementation of this project, DEPC invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced Ni Vanuatu candidates for the position of: LOCAL CONSERVATION SPECIALIST (LCS) ON ERROMANGO ISLAND.

POSITION PURPOSE

The Local Conservation Specialist (LCS) will provide overall leadership, coordination, and technical guidance for the implementation of the GEF-8 project on Erromango. The LCS will work under the supervision of the Chief Technical Advisor and guidance of the Project Steering Committee, while coordinating closely with government agencies, development partners, communities, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will:

• Assist the CTA/NPC and the Department of Environment implement, monitor and report on project activities in the islands;
• Assist in public awareness campaigns, stakeholder consultations relating to project work in the protected area sites and at the island and provincial level;
• Coordinate project activities at the protected areas of the islands and provinces through guidance of CTA/NPC;
• Work with national counterparts from relevant Government Departments and ministries in coordinating and implementing project work and work plans at the project site;
• Organize meetings and consultations with landowners and Provincial Government representatives to address and solve issues impacting on smooth and timely implementation of project activities;
• Involve in technical work such as surveys and other data and information collection work by organizing logistics at local project sites;
• Assist organize approval for entry into communal land, forest and villages and establish network with local chiefs and village committees;
• Assist in disbursement of awareness and educational materials related to project work;
• With assistance of CTA/NPC, organize landowner groups to ease disbursement of project materials, funds and other benefits related to project work;
• Prepare monthly progressive reports and specific situation reports when as required;
• Provide logistical support to project consultants and teams when out implementing activities in the field
• Undertake any other duties as assigned by DEPC.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Applicants must possess:

• Diploma in Environmental Science, Life Sciences, or a related field, or Year 13 leaving certificate (minimum requirement) with experience in working in communities in Vanuatu
• At least 3 years of demonstrated experience in implementation and management of community projects
• Understanding of community engagement, customary land issues, and stakeholder coordination.
• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English and Bislama.
• Moderate computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• High standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure, and unsupervised.
• Good analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Cultural awareness and gender sensitivity.
• Ability to build effective partnerships with government agencies and communities, .

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit:

1. Application Letter;
2. Current Curriculum Vitae (CV);
3. Certified copies of qualifications;
4. Two professional referees; and
5. Any other supporting documents.

Applications should be addressed to:

The Director
Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation Port Vila, Vanuatu and send application to

Email : omelenamu@vanuatu.gov.vu
Closing Date : Friday 21st August 2026

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

The Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women and men are strongly encouraged to apply.

“Contributing to a resilient and sustainable Vanuatu through biodiversity conservation and nature-based solutions.”