Conservation Pilot – Okapi Wildlife Reserve

About the role

The Conservation Pilot will support protected‑area managers in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve by conducting surveillance, monitoring flights and providing logistical air support. Working closely with the park anti‑poaching team and WCS field operations, the pilot will also lead a small crew of observers and assistants.

Key responsibilities

• Operate aircraft as Pilot‑in‑Command for anti‑poaching, monitoring and logistical missions, adhering to all safety procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain aircraft documentation, logs, and ensure compliance with international and national aviation laws.
• Oversee aircraft upkeep, cleaning, fueling, and secure storage; manage aviation supplies, fuel, oils and related procurement.
• Train staff on aviation safety, aircraft handling and use of survey equipment.
• Coordinate with field operations, ecologists, law‑enforcement and logistics managers to plan missions, budgets and annual aviation unit plans.

Required profile

• Current US FAA commercial pilot licence with instrument rating and a second‑class medical certificate.
• Minimum 400 hours PIC experience, including high‑performance piston‑engine time (preferably on a C206 or similar).
• Experience flying in remote, francophone African settings and familiarity with wildlife or anti‑poaching surveys is an advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in cross‑cultural teams and communicate fluently in English and French.
• Willingness to live and work in a challenging, remote environment.

Required skills

• US FAA commercial pilot licence (instrument rating)
• FAA second‑class medical certificate
• High‑performance piston‑engine operation (C206 or similar)
• Knowledge of FAR Part 135 operations and FAA A&P maintenance standards