African Parks (AP)
VACANCY
Trainee Dog Handler
STATUS: One-year contract subject to renewal based on performance
African Parks (AP) is a not-for-profit organization that secures a mandate to conserve through Public-Private Partnerships with governments and communities for the rehabilitation and long-term management of protected areas in Africa. In Malawi, AP manages Majete Wildlife Reserve, Liwonde National Park, and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.
An opportunity has arisen for the position of Trainee Dog Handler, based at Majete Wildlife Reserve in Chikwawa.
The Trainee Dog Handler will report directly to the Head of Law Enforcement and work closely with the Wildlife Monitoring Department. The successful candidate will assist in the care and management of working dogs that support anti-poaching efforts and the protection of priority species in Majete. They will initially support kennel operations and dog welfare activities and-upon successful performance and assessment-will be trained to become a qualified dog handler.
Candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in conservation and animal welfare, be physically fit, and be willing to work in remote field conditions.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE (but not limited to):
- Assisting in the daily care, feeding, grooming, and kennel hygiene of working dogs
- Supporting experienced handlers during dog training exercises and patrol deployments
- Monitoring dog health and behavior, and reporting issues promptly
- Upholding strict hygiene, health, and biosecurity standards within kennel facilities
- Supporting general law enforcement and park operations as required
- Promoting and practicing high standards of animal welfare, ensuring dogs are always treated with compassion and respect at all times.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Required
- Genuine passion for conservation and animal welfare
- Excellent written and spoken English communication skills
- High motivation to work in remote and challenging environments
- Attention to detail and strong time-management skills
- Calm under pressure, and able to work effectively in a team Culturally sensitive and respectful in a diverse working environment
Preferred
Valid motorcycle or driver’s license and ability to drive manual transmission vehicles
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE), with passes in Mathematics, Biology, and Geography
- Previous experience in law enforcement, military, security, or conservation is an advantage
- Completion of a Basic Field Ranger Course is an added advantage
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
- Aged between 18 and 35
- Willing and able to spend several consecutive days and nights in the field
- Must be physically fit and able to work in demanding outdoor conditions
- Must be prepared to undergo a physical selection process
- Must be able to pass a Basic Field Ranger Course in future
- Demonstrated affinity for dogs and a willingness to learn animal handling
Shortlisted candidates must be available to participate in a 2-day selection process on 24th and 25th July 2025, which will include a fitness assessment, English test, comprehension test, and a wildlife knowledge test.
Applicants should submit their CVs with a covering letter clearly stating how their skills and experience meet the requirements of the position. At least two traceable referees should be included, but copies of certificates are not required at this stage.
Applications should be emailed to recruitMalawi@africanparks.org by close of business on 22nd July 2025.
Should you not hear back from us within 2 weeks after closing date, please take it that your application was unsuccessful.