Location: Ruvuma Wilderness Project, Ruvuma, Tanzania 

Reports to: Landscape Manager, Ruvuma Wilderness Project

Carbon Tanzania is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Driver/Mechanic to join our team for the Ruvuma Wilderness Project. This role requires an individual with extensive 4×4 driving expertise, a strong understanding of vehicle mechanics, and a team player who can support the team and effectively engage with local communities across a vast and diverse landscape.

About Carbon Tanzania:

Carbon Tanzania develops forest carbon projects that deliver verified carbon credits, providing a sustainable financing mechanism for forest conservation and community development. Our projects encourage local communities to protect their natural resources, while also contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.

The Ruvuma Wilderness Project:

The Ruvuma Wilderness Project focuses on the conservation of a large Miombo forest area in southern Tanzania. Working in close collaboration with local communities, the project aims to reduce deforestation, enhance livelihoods, and secure the long-term health of the ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities:

• Vehicle Operations and Maintenance:
  • Safely operate and maintain project vehicles, primarily 4-wheel drive vehicles, in challenging off-road conditions across the Ruvuma Wilderness Project area.
  • Conduct routine maintenance checks, identify and troubleshoot mechanical issues, and perform basic repairs in the field to ensure vehicle reliability and minimize downtime.
  • Manage vehicle logbooks, fuel consumption records, and maintenance schedules accurately.
  • Ensure vehicle is equipped with necessary safety gear and tools.

• Logistics and Field Support:
  • Provide reliable transportation for project staff, partners, and community members as required.
  • Assist with the loading, unloading, and secure transport of project equipment and supplies.
  • Support field operations by assisting with data collection, community meetings, and other project activities as directed by the Landscape Manager.

• Community Engagement:
  • Build and maintain positive relationships with local communities and stakeholders.
  • Exhibit cultural sensitivity and effective communication skills when interacting with diverse community groups.
  • Act as a representative of Carbon Tanzania, fostering trust and collaboration with project beneficiaries.

• Safety and Compliance:
  • Adhere strictly to all traffic laws, company safety policies, and project protocols.
  • Report any accidents, incidents, or mechanical failures promptly.
  • Ensure the safety of passengers and cargo at all times.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience as a driver, with extensive off-road and 4-wheel drive experience in challenging terrain is essential.
• Strong practical knowledge of vehicle mechanics, and the ability to perform basic repairs and maintenance.
• Valid Tanzanian driving license with a clean record.
• Experience working in remote, rural areas, preferably within conservation or community development projects.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse groups of people, including rural communities.
• Proficiency in English is an added advantage.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel extensively and spend prolonged periods in the field.
• Preference will be given to candidates from Ruvuma.