Round River Conservation Studies (RRCS) is seeking enthusiastic Student Program Instructors for our upcoming undergraduate conservation programs in southern Chile. We are hiring for Fall 2016 semester (Sept-Dec).
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
– Manage all logistics and safety
– Collaborate with local partners and senior RRCS staff to conduct research;
– Teach conservation biology, biological field methods, natural history, conservation policy, 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 8-10 students (ranging in ages from 19-23). We will staff 2 or 3 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
* 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 region
* Spanish fluency or near-fluency required
* Proficiency driving a 4WD vehicle with manual transmission
* 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 US $2,500 per month, plus room/board, travel costs, and evacuation insurance.
Program dates: September 22 – December 15 (plus approximately 2 weeks for pre-program preparations and a week after the program for wrap-up; actual dates may change)
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)