Period
Middle of June - Middle of December 2008
Location
Costa Rica - Osa Peninsula. Carate, Rio Oro and Pejeperro beaches.
Background Information
On the Osa Peninsula during the last five years the program has been developing a regional sea turtle protection, conservation and research activities focusing on the nesting beaches of Carate, Río Oro, Pejeperro and Madrigal, which will result in the gathering of baseline information to contribute to the local, regional and global study of populations of olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), Pacific green (Chelonia mydas), and leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) sea turtles. Project long-term goals also include (i) To protec the most important sea turtle nesting areas on the Osa Peninsula - Carate, Rio Oro, Pejeperro and Madrigal beaches - through nightly and daily patrols. (ii)To decrease poaching of sea turtle eggs through a community-based initiative. (iii) To standardize and unify methods and techniques (recording data, tagging, and using hatcheries) for sea turtle conservation and management on the Osa Peninsula. (iv) Finally, we look to increase awareness about the importance of sea turtles, their habitat, and all of the Osa's natural ecosystems.
Duties
The Volunteer Coordinator will be essential in overseeing the work of the Field Assistants and volunteers in every aspect of the program, also the field coordinators will be in charge of the station during the season which represents a notable degree of responsibility.
The obligations of a Project's Field Coordinator will include:
1. Orientation of Field Assistants/volunteers and introduction to project's methodology.
2. Coordination of schedule for nightly/morning patrols on the beach
3. Verification that the work equipment is available all the time.
4. Management of the hatchery.
5. Keep updated the data base.
6. To motivate the volunteers to do their work and follow the rules, and promote a fun working atmosphere at the station.
The Osa Sea Turtle Conservation Program works jointly with locals in order to carry-out a community-based conservation project. As a part of this effort, our field coordinators and volunteers are invited to develop educational activities and workshops for local schools, formative groups and community members.
Requirements
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must be a graduate or student in Biology. If no degree in Biology, must at least have some field work experience
• Must have two recommendation letters from Professors, Employers, or anyone able to support your skills
• Must have a Valid Driver’s License
• Must have good English and Spanish skills
• Must be able to work well with others
• Must be in good physical condition and be able to work in the tropical climatic conditions (rain, humidity, insects)
• Must fill out and send the application form (www.osaseaturtles.org).
• Must have a passion and determination to work with sea turtles.
• Have a personal insurance policy
Benefits/Costs
Housing and Food are covered while living at the field station. No Transportation included. A monthly stipend will be offered.
Additional Contact Information
Please send to info@osaseaturtles.org:
a. Letter indicating why you are interested in the position and personal strong points.
2. CV/Resume
3. Email addresses of two references