What's the context and purpose of the role?

Natural resources are the single biggest contributor to the Indonesian economy, but over exploitation and poor management policies and practices have led to rapid depletion. The rural poor have lost most from this destruction, as they are often dependent upon natural resources for their livelihood. The Jeneberang-Walanae Watershed Management Body (BPAS) coordinates with government at a provincial level to advise on improved planning in the watershed. Their work is the main basis for the forestry development planning and policies in the Jebenerang-Walanae watershed area in South Sulawesi. BPBAS are looking to improve their internal capacity to deliver better services to stakeholders in South Sulawesi. You'll support the Forest Ecosystem Controller (PEH) and 9 junior experts strengthening their ability to create a comprehensive strategy for watershed management. You'll use your extensive hydrology and natural resource management expertise to analyse existing surveys and studies and support the team to develop new ideas for watershed development. Your placement will support BPAS' aim to develop community-based programmes enabling local participation in and benefit from sustainable, resource-based economic activities.

What does the role involve?

• Providing technical assistance to Forest Ecosystem Controllers in watershed management.
• Supporting the development of recommendations of appropriate policies and strategies for watershed management in the Jeneberang watershed.
• Improving community participation in the planning processes and watershed management strategies
.

What skills, experience and personal qualities are needed for the role?

Educated to Masters' level in Natural Resource Management or a related field you'll have several years' experience in hydrology and natural resource management. You'll be comfortable working with a participatory approach and have experience in government development planning. You'll need GIS skills and experience in conducting and analysing research. In addition you need to be physically fit and preferably willing to ride a motorbike. The ability to work well with others and be sensitive to cultural differences is essential. You'll flexibility and adaptability to work in an environment that may appear more bureaucratic than you are accustomed to.

And the rest…

You'll be based in the Makassar District, with several other VSO volunteers. Makassar is the fourth biggest city in Indonesia and offers plenty of choice for eating and leisure activities. Fort Rotterdam on the seafront area is one of the most famous historical remnants of the Dutch colonial era. Off Losari beach there are small islands that can be reached in around 1-3 hours by boat. Kyangan, Lae-Lae and Samalona islands offer fishing, snorkelling and diving. You are encouraged to learn Bahasa Indonesia as English is not widely spoken. Initial language training will be provided by VSO and you are advised to continue lessons during your placement to get the most out of your time in Indonesia.

We'll ask you to commit to 27 months to make a sustainable contribution to our development goals. In return, we'll give you comprehensive financial, personal and professional support. We'll provide you with extensive training before your placement, and our financial package includes a local salary, return flights, accommodation, insurance and more. When you return to your home country, we'll help you to resettle and many of our returned volunteers stay involved with us long after their placement ends.

Candidates should apply online at http://www.vso.org.uk/volunteer/ or call 020 8780 7500 for more information.