Field Assistant

Field Assistant

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 Covalima Municipality, Timor-Leste

The GEF-8 Field Assistants will support the on-the-ground implementation of the GEF-8 “Improving Wetlands Management for Biodiversity and Human–Wildlife Coexistence” project across designated field sites in Timor-Leste. They will assist in biodiversity and socio-economic data collection, facilitate community engagement events, and support conservation and livelihood activities under the guidance of the Field Coordinator and Technical Lead. Field Assistants will also serve as a liaison between the project team and local communities, ensuring effective communication and fostering community participation in project activities. Additionally, they will support the delivery of training sessions by coordinating logistics and providing on-site assistance.

Field Assistants will be trained to adhere to project standards, including gender-sensitive and culturally appropriate approaches, ensuring that all activities are implemented in a manner that respects local traditions and promotes inclusivity.

Acting as contact points between the project team and local stakeholders, the Field Assistants will play a vital role in building trust, fostering collaboration, and promoting the active involvement of communities in project initiatives.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Planning

- Support the project team in developing annual and quarterly work plans aligned with GEF-8 implementation requirements.
- Support the Field Coordinator and project team in preparing field activity plans, schedules, and logistics for surveys, training, and community engagement.
- Develop and implement monthly, weekly, and daily field activity plans to ensure structured execution, optimal resource utilization, and alignment with the work plan.
- Serve as a liaison between the project team, local government representatives, and community group members.
- Support awareness and advocacy efforts, helping to document and share best practices for replication or scaling.
- Assist and support the team to prepare a presentation for the quarterly meeting.

Field Implementation

- Assist in biodiversity and socio-economic data collection, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timely submission.
- Conduct data entry and perform quality checks before submission to the project database or M&E team.
- Facilitate and co-facilitate community meetings, workshops, and field demonstrations, ensuring inclusive participation of women and youth.
- Organize and facilitate estabilished community conservation and restoration group.
- Support conservation, livelihood, and biodiversity monitoring activities as guided by the Field Coordinator or Technical Lead.
- Ensure that all field activities follow project safeguards, gender mainstreaming, and Rights-Based Approach (RBA) principles.

Reporting and Coordination

- Support donor and MERL reporting by ensuring timely submission of data and field information.
- Ensure the community grant activity is implemented and well reported.
- Maintain accurate field records, including attendance lists, photos/audiovisual, and meeting notes.
- Provide timely updates to the Field Coordinator and project team on issues, including key risks and practical solutions, to support effective decision-making and smooth activity.
- Coordinate with community groups members and local government representatives to ensure active participation and smooth implementation of activities.

Finance and Administration

- Prepare and manage personal cash advance requests and acquittals accurately and submit on time.
- Ensure that all cash advances are fully accounted for and settled in a timely manner, with no outstanding balance remaining
- Submit timely monthly progress reports, cash advance requests, and acquittals to the Field Coordinator.
- Maintain accurate, complete, and well-organized documentation for all expenses.
- Set individual annual goals using the SMARTIE framework and successfully complete both mid-year and annual performance evaluations.
- Complete and submit accurate timesheets on time by the end of each month.
- Maintain a complete and accurate motorcycle logbook, ensuring all usage details—including trips, mileage, and fuel consumption—are properly recorded in line with CI Policy
- Ensure all logistics are effectively planned and organized for workshops, trainings, and community meetings in the field, including timely arrangement of materials, venues, and support services.
- Ensure all motorcycle documents, including STNK and KIR, are valid and up to date, and oversee regular monthly maintenance to keep the motorcycle compliant and in good operating condition.
- Ensure full compliance with CI policies by consistently following established procedures and maintaining professional standards.

WORKING CONDITIONS

- Typical office environment.  Ability to work extended hours or travel as needed.
- This position is based in Covalima Municipality with frequent travel to Dili and other project sites as required

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

- High School or Secondary School education.
- Up to 2 years of related work experience relevant experiences.
- Sound experience of working on environmental and community development issues either in an NGO or the public or private sector.
- Ability to function well in a multicultural, diverse, and fast-paced work team environment.
- Comfortable managing multiple duties and adapting to changing priorities.
- Service focus. Courteous, tactful, and proven ability to work effectively with others.
- Ability to work under general supervision and take initiative to solve problems under supervisor direction.
- Strong presentation, communication, and facilitation skills.
- Proficiency with MS Office, web research, and related skills.
- Fluency in English and Tetum.

Preferred

- Bachelor’s degree is preferred in Conservation, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Protected Areas, Biodiversity, Forestry, or Fisheries.
- Experience working with communities, especially those communities living within protected areas.

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

Application Deadline: November 20, 2026  (11:49 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.