Law Enforcement Advisor – Okapi Wildlife Reserve

About the role

The Wildlife Conservation Society is seeking a Law Enforcement Advisor to strengthen security and disrupt criminal activity within the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (OWR) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The advisor will work closely with the Reserve Director, Assistant Director and Head of Law Enforcement to build capacity of the eco‑guard force and ensure the safety of the reserve’s biodiversity and staff. This is a two‑year fixed‑term position based permanently on‑site in Epulu.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic advice on intelligence collection, analysis and actionable intelligence development.
• Design and implement a comprehensive training and mentorship plan for all law‑enforcement staff, including eco‑guards, section and platoon leaders.
• Develop and adapt an innovative law‑enforcement strategy, policies and procedures, including codes of conduct.
• Coordinate field operations, aerial surveillance and helicopter support, ensuring risk‑managed deployment of assets.
• Optimize manpower through revised leave rotations, patrol schedules and an operational readiness mechanism.
• Maintain command structures, personnel files and monthly law‑enforcement reports, fostering motivation, discipline and high standards.
• Support investigations, case management and prosecution of illegal activities in partnership with the Legal and Judicial Program Team.
• Collaborate with senior management and communications to ensure effective internal and external communication on law‑enforcement matters.

Required profile

• Proven experience in wildlife or protected‑area law enforcement, preferably in remote or conflict‑affected settings.
• Ability to live and work in a remote conservation area and operate under challenging political and security conditions.
• Strong leadership and mentorship skills to build and sustain a capable eco‑guard team.
• Excellent analytical skills for intelligence gathering, risk assessment and operational planning.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of French and local languages is an advantage.