Field Coordinator

Field Coordinator

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Manatuto-Manufahi (1) & Ainaro-Covalima (1)

The Field Coordinator will oversee site-level implementation of project activities, ensuring timely and effective delivery of conservation and livelihood interventions. Working closely with local communities, partners, and field staff, they will organize and supervise surveys, trainings, and community engagement, applying gender-sensitive and culturally appropriate approaches.

Acting as a key liaison between the project team and stakeholders, the coordinator will monitor progress, address challenges, and foster collaboration to ensure strong community participation and project impact.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Planning

• Support the Technical Lead in developing annual and quarterly work plans aligned with GEF-8 implementation requirements.
• Review and apply project activity plans to ensure feasibility, timeliness, and alignment with project objectives.
• Contribute to the design and planning of field surveys, training sessions, livelihood interventions, and community engagement events.
• Support the development of data collection plans and tools for baseline and follow-up assessments in coordination with the M&E team.
• Assist the Technical Lead and Safeguard Coordinator in setting SMART goals for the field team and tracking performance.

Implementation / Field Activities

• Coordinate and oversee daily implementation of field activities, including conservation, restoration, and livelihood initiatives.
• Supervise and guide field assistants and drivers to ensure compliance with project standards and safety protocols.
• Lead and support baseline and monitoring data collection, ensuring quality, accuracy, and timely submission.
• Organize and facilitate community meetings, training, and workshops with inclusive participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
• Promote project visibility and awareness through local events, stakeholder visits, and site-level demonstrations.
• Regularly monitor project sites, identify challenges, and propose corrective actions to the Technical Lead.
• Coordinate with local authorities, community leaders, and partners to ensure effective delivery of field activities.

Reporting & Coordination

• Maintain transparent communication with the CI–Timor-Leste Program and PMU.
• Prepare and submit monthly progress reports summarizing activities, achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.
• Maintain accurate documentation and means of verification (photos, attendance sheets, minutes, etc.).
• Work closely with the M&E, Communications, and GIS teams to ensure project visibility, data integrity, and proper information sharing with stakeholders and ministries.
• Provide regular updates and recommendations to support informed decision-making by project management.
• Support donor and MERL reporting by ensuring timely submission of data and field information.

Finance & Administration

• Prepare and manage personal cash advance requests and acquittals accurately and submit them on time.
• Ensure no outstanding advances or unaccounted expenses for self and for supervised field assistants.
• Review and verify the completeness and accuracy of financial documentation from field assistants before submission.
• Maintain coordination with the finance team to ensure all field expense reports are clean, compliant, and properly supported by documentation.
• Support logistical arrangements for workshops, trainings, and community meetings in the field.

Other Duties

• Perform other tasks as assigned by the Technical Lead to ensure smooth implementation of project activities.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Typical office environment. Ability to work extended hours or travel as needed.
• This position is based in Covalima, Ainaro, Manufahi, and Manatuto with frequent travel to Dili and other project sites as required

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Demonstrated knowledge of environmental resource management and the application of scientific principles.
• 2 to 4 years of relevant work experience, preferably in conservation, community development, NGOs, or advocacy programs, including experience developing and managing work plans.
• Proven in-field experience working with communities on conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable livelihood initiatives.
• Strong skills in monitoring and evaluation, capacity building, and project implementation.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and facilitation abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated commitment and passion for environmental conservation and the long-term sustainability of natural resources.
• Fluency in English and Tetum (written and spoken).

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working with communities, particularly those living in or near protected areas.
• Expertise in community development and sustainable livelihood initiatives is highly desirable.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Conservation, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Protected Areas, Biodiversity, or Fisheries, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience working with communities, particularly those living in or near protected areas.
• Expertise in community development and sustainable livelihood initiatives is highly desirable.

To apply for this position please submit a resume and cover letter.

Application Deadline: November 21, :49 PM EST)

See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HERE

Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone. We strongly encourage women to apply for this position.