Research Assistants

We are seeking Research Assistants for next season for two time periods:
- November 1^st, 2014 until January 3^rd, 2015
- January 3^rd, 2015 until March 1^st, 2015

The Work of RAs will be:

•          Leading groups of volunteers on nightly beach patrols
•          Collection of biometric data from nesting females
•          Relocation of nests
•          Morning track surveys
•          Equipment maintenance
•          Beach slope measurements
•          Overseeing the operation of the hatchery (nest monitoring, collection  of biometric data from hatchlings and hatchling liberation)
•          Exhumations
•          Volunteer training and involvement in educational discussions
•          Assisting the Field Coordinator in the general smooth running of the project

Other work involves beach cleanup (to remove debris that would impede the movement of nesting females or hatchlings) and varying projects including the initial construction of a beach hatchery.

Cost/ Benefits: 
Research Assistants will stay in the station of MINAET (Ministry of
Environment and Energy and Technology) for the duration of the
project. 
Research Assistant (RA) positions are voluntary, and chosen RAs
are expected to cover their own travel expenses, as well as to cover
their own room and board during their stay ($20 per day for
accommodation and three meals at the MINAET station)

Requirements/Qualifications:

•        21+ years of age
•         Good physical condition
•         Student of or Bachelor degree in Biology, Environmental studies,  Ecological tourism or related field
•         Previous field experience related to conservation (preferably reptiles) in remote and climatic difficult areas (preferably tropics)
•        Fluency in English and/(or) Spanish
•        Ability to work as part of a culturally diverse team
•        Adherence to project rules to maintain a professional working environment and project image
•       A positive attitude to motivate volunteers and help create an enjoyable experience
•       Ability to withstand hot, humid and dry climate, and sleep deprivation
•       Able to cope with VERY limited private space
•       Ability to walk long distances (up to 12kms per night) on soft sand
•       Personal travel medical insurance policy

Previous sea turtle experience is a great advantage, however full training will be provided upon arrival to the project site.

We appreciate people who use their initiative, are problem solvers, look to be useful in their spare time, have a positive attitude, and are interested in getting to know the community, understanding what community life is like, and what the community is trying to achieve without compromising their values.

Research Assistants must have a good level of fitness as the work can be strenuous to heavy, depending on the task. The project requires details of any pre-existing injuries or medical conditions to be declared at the time of application.

Application Process: 
Interested applicants please send a cover letter, their current CV
with contact details of three references (in pdf or word format)
stating their preferred time period to:

Marta Pesquero (savetheseaturtles@gmail.com)

Subject title: RA Application Ostional 2014-15