Research Assistants
(Volunteer-based position)
The research assistant (RA) is a long-term volunteer job whom supports the work and data collection of the different investigations of Pacuare Reserve: sea turtles, Agami heron, jaguars and monkeys, among others.
Research Assistants (RA) will be trained in sea turtle monitoring techniques and the primary responsibilities will include leading night beach censuses, conducting morning beach surveys, tagging sea turtles and collecting data, relocating and excavating nests, train new volunteers, manage the database, building and being in charge of the sea turtle hatcheries.
Monitoring activities are carried out along 6 km (3.7 miles) of nesting beach. AIs will be responsible for guiding visitors and/or student groups during their time on the beach, explaining the beach monitoring protocol, and supervising them throughout the data collection process. AIs are also expected to participate in other activities carried out by the Reserve, such as personal research projects, environmental education activities, talks and workshops with students and visitors, beach cleanups, recycling projects, and other station needs.
RA are expected to work between 8 and 10 hours during the day and/or night, often with limited sleep and under physically demanding conditions. Beach censuses require walking on soft sand and working in the rain, so good physical fitness is an essential requirement for the AI position.
Position Duration
The position lasts three to four months, with the possibility of extending the period depending on the progress of activities and performance. Please note that this extension is not guaranteed prior to arrival. The first period begins on February 15, 2027, so the selected candidate must arrive in the country by February 14, 2027.
Qualifications
Required:
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Be bilingual in Spanish and English, with conversational proficiency in French, and the ability to communicate effectively with international staff and visitors.
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Be a graduate or advanced student in Biology, Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Wildlife Management, or a related field.
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Have excellent physical fitness and be comfortable walking long distances on soft sand, working in rainy conditions, and participating in nighttime activities.
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Daytime responsibilities may also involve physically demanding tasks, such as conducting nest exhumations and hiking along the beach and through the forest.
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Demonstrate strong teamwork, adaptability, and resilience, with the ability to live and work in a remote setting and adapt to demanding schedules.
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Have previous experience living and working closely with groups of people for extended periods of time, particularly in shared or communal environments.
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Have experience teaching, facilitating, or sharing knowledge with others, including visitors, students, volunteers, or community members.
Conditions:
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Compensation: This is an unpaid volunteer position.
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Accommodation and meals: Pacuare Reserve provides shared accommodation and three meals per day throughout the volunteer’s stay. Vegetarian meals available.
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Expenses covered by the volunteer: The volunteer is responsible for transportation to and from the Reserve, as well as medical and travel insurance.
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Security deposit: A refundable $200 USD security deposit is required. The deposit will be returned at the end of the volunteer period, provided that the volunteer has fulfilled the agreed-upon responsibilities and complied with the code of conduct.
Application Process and Timeline
Applications for the 2027 season will open in September 2026.
Interested candidates must complete the application form and submit the following documents:
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Updated CV/Resume, highlighting relevant fieldwork and conservation experience.
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Motivation Letter (maximum one page) explaining your interest in the position and your availability for the dates indicated.
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Two References — at least one academic or professional reference with experience related to fieldwork. Please provide their email addresses and phone numbers. At least one reference will be contacted as part of the selection process.
Position description
Application form
Questions can be directed to:
