Work with Nature Seychelles

 

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITY 2022
(REEF RESCUERS)

Position title: Volunteer Scientific Diver

Nature Seychelles, a leading environmental NGO in the Western Indian Ocean which is actively restoring coral reefs in the Cousin Island Special Reserve, is searching for scientific divers to assist with the implementation of a regional coral reef restoration project (http://natureseychelles.org/what-we-do/coral-reef-restoration). Volunteers play an integral role in the ‘Reef Rescuers’ project, supporting all aspects of our work whilst developing an array of transferable skills within the fields of marine conservation and coral reef restoration.

The volunteer divers will assist the Reef Rescuers’ Science & Technical Field Officers with the daily running of the reef restoration project, including in-water and office-based work. Primary tasks will typically include building, stocking and maintenance of in-situ coral nurseries, transplanting coral, a range of ecological monitoring (coral diversity, healthy conditions and growth, invertebrates and fish community assessment, etc…), data entry and analysis, dive store and equipment management. Comprehensive training will be provided on restoration techniques (dependent on seasonal activities), reef monitoring protocols and species identification.

This role is both physically and mentally demanding, therefore scientific divers must have a high level of physical fitness and be able to provide a relevant history of working underwater. Applicants with previous experience within reef restoration and/or coral reef ecological monitoring are desirable.

Skills and requirements

Essential

• An experienced, certified diver (ideally PADI Advanced Open Water or equivalent) capable of diving in challenging conditions (e.g., current, low visibility).
• A minimum of 50 logged dives.
• Demonstrable experience of carrying out physical work underwater.
• High physical fitness and ability to work in harsh conditions.
• Practical mind-set with the ability to solve problems underwater effectively.
• Flexible to a varying work schedule and capable of living on a remote tropical island.
• Effective communicator and English speaking.
• Suitable diving and travel insurance.

Desirable

• BSc/MSc in marine ecology or related subjects.
• Previous experience:
  Coral reef restoration and/or tropical marine conservation & research
  Coral reef ecological monitoring
  Fish, coral, and invertebrate species identification (ideally, Western Indian Ocean)
• Data management and scientific report writing
• Personal dive gear.

Details

• Non-paid, voluntary position (accommodation provided).
• Shared dormitory, including kitchen and bathroom. No meals included.
• Flexible working hours, 08:00-16:00 during weekdays, typically conducting up to two dives a day with the potential for weekend work depending on diving conditions.
• Base location: Centre for Ocean Restoration Awareness Learning (CORAL), Praslin, Republic of Seychelles.
• Reporting to Reef Rescuers Science & Technical Field Officers.

Deadline for application and Timeline

Volunteer Position 1:
Apply by: 25th March 2022
Start date: 10th April 2022
End Date:10th July 2022

Volunteer Position 2:
Apply by: 25th March 2022
Start Date: 10th May 2022
End Date: 10th August 2022

 

To apply, please send a cover letter, CV, and digital photo by email, to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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If shortlisted, you will be required to provide copies of both diving and insurance certificates and attend a skype interview.
Volunteers must all be vaccinated against COVID-19.