We are conducting a sea turtle conservation volunteering program at an important site on the Northern Pacific coast of Nicaragua.
We work with local community groups and national non-profit conservation organisations to carry out conservation activities.
A total of 2-4 Research Assistant (RA) positions are available for the 2019-2020 nesting season from 1 July; 2019 to 1 February; 2020.
The responsibilities of RAs generally entail help to coordinate the work of project volunteers in the field; facilitating their involvement in the community; and serving as the vital link between local program staff/collaborators and volunteers. RAs should thus facilitate functional work between locals and foreign volunteers in terms of language. Furthermore; RAs will coordinate with local project staff to elaborate volunteer participation in night patrols to identify; measure and tag all adult turtles; relocate nests into hatcheries or mark them in situ; conduct daily horse/ATV morning patrols to count turtle tracks and check status of in situ nests; monitor hatcheries around the clock; release hatchlings and conduct post hatching nest excavations.
Besides sea turtle duties; other responsibilities of the RAs will include administering food supplies. RAs must also maintain a friendly relationship with members from local communities; as social aspects are crucial to the success of the projects. Not surprising; a high degree of independence; responsibility and commitment is expected from RAs.
All project activities are conducted using the help of volunteers (who pay a fee to participate); which can vary in number. RAs are expected to help to orient and train volunteers upon their arrival at our turtle camp and to motivate them for the period they are participating in the project.
It is important for RAs to be aware of the fact that there may be periods of extended isolation and time in the field required by these projects; which can have adverse effects on personal moods and behaviours. Attitudes are very contagious in the project settings; thus it is crucial for RAs to be an example by staying motivated and maintaining a positive attitude at all times; thus helping other team members to do the same.
To apply; send an email including a letter of motivation; indicating: time frame(s) you are applying for why you are interested in the position; your personal strong points; and a CV/Resume.
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