Round River Conservation Studies (RRCS) is seeking enthusiastic Student Program Leaders for our upcoming undergraduate conservation program in Chile.RRCS is an international non-profit organization dedicated to developing conservation strategies to preserve and restore wild places through conservation science and environmental education. RRCS offers field-based academic programs that are integrated directly into current conservation efforts with local communities. Programs are limited to small groups of students to provide a first-hand experience of the scientific, social and political aspects of community conservation. Positions involve living and working on-site at remote field locations for three months.
Description:
Round River program leaders/instructors are responsible for the following:
- Schedule and lead program activities, including academics and biological field research
- Manage all logistics and safety, including driving and maintaining program vehicles
- Collaborate with local partners and senior RRCS staff to conduct research
- Teach undergraduate courses including: applied conservation biology, biological field methods, natural history, restoration ecology and human ecology
- Facilitate group discussions
- Encourage students’ understanding of complex conservation issues in the context of the local region.
Student group size is usually 8 to 10 students (ranging in ages from 19-23). We will staff two program leaders/instructors.
This position can present unique learning experiences, as well as challenges. Because this is a live-in position, leaders must be available and approachable to students at all times, and there is little down time.
Qualifications:
Because of the interdisciplinary nature of the student programs, successful applicants must have well-rounded experience in education, field research, and community conservation and/or outreach.
The following qualifications are required:
* MSc in a natural science or a related field (please do not apply if you do not possess a graduate degree)
* At least two years of field experience (international experience preferred)
* Teaching experience at an undergraduate level
* Experience leading field-based student programs or volunteer research crews
* Demonstrated ability to design field research studies and/or community projects
* Current Wilderness First Responder and CPR certification
* Prefer previous experience traveling or living in program location
* Spanish proficiency (fluency preferred)
* Proficiency driving a 4WD vehicle with manual transmission (required)
* Ability to think on your feet, plan ahead, and problem solve in the field with limited resources and support from senior staff
* Great interpersonal skills, high-energy levels, and lots of patience
Salary/Benefits: Starting at USD $2,500 per month, plus room/board, travel costs, and evacuation insurance.
Program dates:
September 19 – December 12, 2014 (plus approximately 2 weeks for pre-program preparations and 10 days after the program for wrap-up; total time requirement to be determined).
To Apply:
Send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references in one PDF document to both:
Doug Milek, Director of Student Programs (dougmilek@roundriver.org)
Susie Dain-Owens, Associate Director of Student Programs (susie@roundriver.org)
More information about our programs can be found on our website: www.roundriver.org