Community Engagement Coordinator

Reports to: Rights & Communities Manager

Positions Managed: Community Engagement Officer(s)

Location: Ishasha, Queen Elizabeth Protected Area

Position Type: Full-time

Scope/Capacity: Site, travel to work in remote locations expected

Coordinates with: Rights and Communities team members, Biodiversity Management team, Law Enforcement team, Uganda Country Team, global and regional thematic teams and specialists (e.g. Rights+ Communities) as needed.

JOB PURPOSE

The Community Engagement Coordinator will support the Rights and Communities Manager in implementing impactful community conservation initiatives around Ishasha. This role will focus on engaging communities to participate in park related initiatives and activities. This will include but not be limited to leading consultations and awareness-raising related to protected area activities, supporting mitigation of human wildlife conflict, supporting the implementation of social safeguards mechanisms for communities and building the capacity of community institutions. The position requires extensive travel to locations around Ishasha to engage directly with local communities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan and execute community engagement activities to reach target audiences, in accordance with the community conservation plan and social safeguards plan

• Build strong relationships with communities, local and civil society organizations, community representatives and other local stakeholders

• Ensure engagement of diverse groups and community members in park activities, including women, youth and other vulnerable or target audiences

• Lead consultations with communities and community institutions as required and related to project activities

• Support the roll-out of a grievance redress mechanism and other social safeguards mechanisms through community engagement

• Support human wildlife conflict mitigation efforts through community engagement

• Represent the community’s interests and concerns to the management and partner organizations

• Track the effectiveness of community engagement activities and adjust the approach as needed

• Provide targeted training and support to community members and organizations to build their capability to participate in PA management issues (e.g. revenue sharing)

• Implement incentive programs such as wildlife scholarships, where funding allows, ensuring community engagement and transparency in the selection of participants

• Conduct socio-economic research and monitoring in accordance with the community conservation plan and monitoring and evaluation plan

Minimum Requirements and Job Skills (Required)

• A Bachelor's degree in social, rural or environmental sciences essential, Masters degree in the same desirable

• At least five year’s experience working with rural or remote communities in social mobilization, community engagement, awareness campaigns or similar

• Proven experience in the application of participatory methods and monitoring and evaluation of community engagements

• Ability and passion to work with local communities towards a shared vision

• Good written and oral skills in English and Runyakitara (i.e., Runyankore, Rukiga, Runyoro, Rutoro) and Rufumbira

• Experience working with multi-faceted teams

• Coordination with government, donors and partners coupled with excellent networking and communications skills

• Knowledge and commitment to conservation
• Ability to innovate, initiate and good adaptability and problem-solving skills

How to apply

Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications, skills, and experience should apply through the application tab by September 2nd, 2026. We review received applications on a rolling basis.

WCS is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all employment and labour laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensure that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate against employment based on age, colour, disability, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by laws and regulations.

Note: This position is open to Ugandan nationals and candidates who currently hold a valid permit to work in Uganda.

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