Postdoctoral Research Scholar: Decision Support Models for Turtle Conservation

Rangeland, Wildlife & Fisheries Mangement; Corvallis (OR); Remote; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An ecological stewardship organization is seeking a mature couple for a 175-day contract in Ecuador. The ideal candidates will have backgrounds in field ornithology, ecotourism, and solid communication skills in English and Spanish. Responsibilities include collecting scientific data and hosting guests. Compensation is $400/month plus housing, with opportunities for additional income through guest services.

Benefits

Housing included

Visa extension covered

Qualifications

• Must speak and write well in English.
• Must understand Spanish; one must have advanced Spanish speaking skills.

Responsibilities

• Collect scientific data on weather and hummingbirds.
• Host nature-oriented guests and keep the research station tidy.
• Manage financial records and submit monthly reports.

Skills

Field ornithology

Ecotourism and hospitality services

Guiding or nature interpretation

First aid training

Basic accounting

Problem-solving attitude

Education

Undergraduate degree in ecology or related field

Job description

Life Net Nature seeks a fit, mature in character, and responsible duo with a solid history of working and living together. We especially seek a couple or a pair of friends with combined backgrounds in: 1) field ornithology (ideally some tropical experience), 2) ecotourism and hospitality services, 3) guiding or nature interpretation, 4) bio-regional living including organic gardening, solar equipment, and composting, 5) wilderness and leave-no-trace camping ethics, 6) handy skills like carpentry, plumbing, and care of small engines, 7) small business operations and basic accounting, 8) first aid training, 9) loads of common sense, and 10) a problem-solving and hard-working attitude.

The two stewards live at Reserva Las Tangaras for a 175-day contract (an Ecuadorian 90-day tourist Visa plus one extension, with 5-day leeway at the end). Reserva Las Tangaras (RLT) is a 48-hectare montane forest protected area located near the town of Mindo. It is a wilderness setting with mainly hike-in access. Endemic and endangered species are protected on the property including more than 350 bird species, spectacled bear, and white-fronted capuchin monkeys.

RLT receives bird-watchers, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and tropical biology researchers, adventurous hikers, and students. Entry, overnight, and guided tour fees sustain the reserve, and help support the couple’s monthly stipend. New stewards overlap with out-going stewards for 3-4 days of training.

Qualifications: Both applicants must speak and write well in English. Both applicants must understand Spanish, and one must have intermediate to advanced skills in speaking and writing Spanish. One person must have an undergraduate degree in a topic related to the science aspects of the position: ecology, field biology, ecotourism, natural resources management, conservation biology, environmental studies, etc.

Duties:

• Collect scientific data on weather and hummingbirds (daily), Andean Cock-of-the Rock and Club-winged Manakin leks (weekly), two thrush species (opportunistically), camera trapping (optional), species lists of mammals, birds, and herptiles (monthly), and natural history notes on birds and eBird listing (opportunistically).
• Host international and local nature-oriented guests and visitors. Keep research station/guest cabin tidy and repaired, prepare and sell meals to guests (proceeds from food and drink sales retained by stewards).
• Keep financial records, set realistic goals and complete management tasks including all communications, reservations via phone & online, and submit a monthly report to Dr. Becker, Life Net Nature.
• Maintain the water system, entrance bridge, and trails.
• Improve trails and signage from main road and throughout the reserve.
• Have your own laptop(s) and be skilled with blogging on Wordpress, social media (Facebook & Instagram), use of Word and Excel for monthly report that includes science data, accounting, updated inventories, overview of work. Send email thank you notes to guests, contribute bird lists to eBird, and more.

Compensation: Stipend is $400/month/couple. Housing is included. Visa extensions covered by LNN. Stewards earn additional income by offering food and beverages and guide services to guests. Food and beverage income is 100% retained by the stewards. Guiding income is split 50:50 stewards: reserve.

To Apply: As one PDF document email 1) a joint cover letter expressing interest and qualifications of each person, 2) a professional resume (CV) for each applicant, and 3) three references for each applicant with email & phone contact information. Email application materials to Dr. Dusti Becker at [e-mail]. If selected for an interview, Dr. Becker will contact you.

EEO Statement: Life Net Nature is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates.