Period
March 1st - November 31st 2013
Location
Caño Palma Biological Station, Barra Colorado Wildlife Refuge, Tortuguero Lowlands, Costa Rica (10km north of Tortuguero).
Background Information
Monitoring has been conducted since 2004, on a 5km stretch of beach on the northern side of the Tortuguero river mouth, called Playa Norte. The Marine Turtle program is one of six long term monitoring surveys carried out by the Station which also hosts other international researchers.
Duties
The individual will coordinate the marine turtle program in collaboration with the Director of Research, Station Manager and Research Coordinator. Responsibilities include leading patrols for morning and night surveys and ensuring the accurate collection of biometric and nesting data. The Head Intern will also be responsible for training other interns and volunteers, data base management, the production of end of season reports and community engagement with the program.
Requirements
• Previous turtle monitoring experience.
• Proven leadership abilities, organisational and time management skills
• English fluency and Intermediate Spanish language speaking skills necessary
• Experience with Microsoft Access and database management
• Proven ability to produce scientific reports
• Excellent physical health, patrols walk the beach for a minimum of 10km.
• Experience working/living in tropical conditions beneficial.
• Possess a positive attitude with high energy, ability to work in an upbeat manner despite difficult environmental conditions important.
• Flexibility to work a varied schedule when necessary, including late nights and early mornings
• Must be at least 21 yrs. of age.
Benefits/Costs
Stipend $150 US per month as part of the Canadian DONNER Foundation Funding grant (E-51-11), food and accommodation provided, contract completion bonus of $1000 US upon receipt of approved reports at season's end.
http://www.coterc.org