Job Opportunity: Field Instructors in Costa Rica, Galapagos

Submitted: Friday, August 13, 2004
Contact: Hiring jobs@ecologyproject.org
WWW Link: www.ecologyproject.org
Period: Galapagos: December 12 – May 4, 2005
Costa Rica: March 1 – August 3, 2005

Location: Costa Rica: Carribean Coast
Galapagos: Galapagos Islands (Santa Cruz)
Background Information: Ecology Project International (EPI) seeks instructors to teach field ecology courses to high school and university students in Costa Rica and the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Guided by local scientists, EPI introduces students to authentic scientific study, raises cultural and ecological awareness, and promotes international cooperation.
Our project site in Costa Rica consists of 2000 acres of rainforest and 4 miles of coastline that supports nesting leatherback sea turtles during our March - August field season. EPI offers a residential course, STEP (Sea Turtle Ecology Program), to visiting Costa Rican and U.S. student groups during this time period. Adjunct activities for U.S. and international students include white water rafting on the Pacuare River and a reforestation project at a primary rainforest reserve.
In Ecuador, EPI offers the STEP program to visiting Galapagos and U.S. student groups from January to April. Students camp in the field, cook all of their own meals, and collect data for local scientists.

Duties:
Responsibilities: Teach experiential environmental education programs to high school and university students. Promote a safe environment for student and teacher participants at remote field sites. Costa Rica: Oversee nightly sea turtle patrols in the company of staff biologist. Coordinate with visiting teachers and chaperones to maximize student comfort and learning.
Galapagos: Teach low-impact, wilderness camping skills to students and abide by all Galapagos National Park protocols and regulations. Lead data collection for a long-term monitoring project.

Requirements:
Qualifications:
Required:
1. Flexibility and ability to work with others in a rural setting.
2. Teaching and leadership experience.
3. Experience working with young adults.
4. Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, natural sciences, or related field

5. English and Spanish skills.
6. Current Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications.
7. Minimum 21 years of age.
Preferred:
1. Field research experience (especially sea turtles).
2. Knowledge and familiarity with the host country.
3. Master’s degree in related field.


Benefits/Costs: Compensation: Room, board, in-country travel, and $30-60/day DOE.
Additional Contact Information: These positions close September 15th.

To apply, send resume, cover letter and EPI Instructor application (available at www.ecologyproject.org) to:

Instructor Hiring
Ecology Project International
jobs@ecologyproject.org
P.O. Box 9192
Missoula, MT 59807
(406) 721 8784 ph
(406) 721 7060 fax