Entrepreneurship in the territories: is it the right time?
LOCATION: Malapascua Island, Cebu, Philippines
DURATION: Minimum 12 months (with a 3-month probationary period)
START DATE: January 2025
ABOUT PEOPLE AND THE SEA
People and the Sea is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering coastal communities in the Philippines to sustainably manage and benefit from their invaluable marine resources. Our mission is to improve local livelihoods and safeguard marine biodiversity through a variety of community-led initiatives, including waste reduction, sustainable fishing practices, marine research, youth education, and the economic resilience of coastal communities. We are seeking a Marine Conservation Officerto lead the development and delivery of our reef conservation training programme and oversee ongoing research and management of local marine reserves.
JOB DESCRIPTION
As the Marine Conservation Officer, you will be responsible for implementing a comprehensive reef monitoring and conservation training programme for both local community members and international volunteers. You will oversee all aspects of training, ensuring participants gain the necessary skills to conduct reef surveys and contribute to long-term conservation goals. Additionally, you will lead research efforts to assess and manage marine reserves, working closely with local stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and marine biodiversity protection.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Training Programme Development and Delivery
- Deliver a reef conservation and monitoring training programme for local and international participants.
- Prepare and present engaging, science-based lectures on reef ecosystems, conservation techniques, and marine reserve management.
- Develop innovative training materials and methods to ensure participants meet their learning objectives.
- Provide hands-on field training through snorkelling and diving sessions, focusing on reef survey methodologies.
- Continuously update training content to reflect the latest developments in marine science and conservation.
Research and Marine Reserve Management
- Lead research activities related to the management and conservation of marine reserves.
- Develop and implement marine habitats monitoring protocols to assess health and ecosystem resilience.
- Analyse data collected from field research and report on the status of marine reserves, identifying areas for conservation improvement.
- Collaborate with local government units, community groups, and conservation organisations to support sustainable marine resource management.
- Ensure all research activities align with People and the Sea’s conservation objectives and meet international standards for marine science.
Community Engagement and Stakeholder Collaboration
- Organise community workshops and public presentations to raise awareness of marine conservation efforts.
- Work closely with local fishermen and community leaders to incorporate traditional knowledge and practices into marine reserve management plans.
- Support community-led initiatives aimed at creating long-term, sustainable conservation solutions.
Diving and Field Operations
- Schedule and lead all field-based training and research dives, ensuring adherence to safety standards.
- Oversee the maintenance and inventory of scientific and diving equipment used in reef monitoring and research activities.
- Conduct routine dives to collect data and assess reef health in protected areas.
Reporting and Administrative Duties
- Compile and analyse research data, producing comprehensive reports on marine reserve management and training outcomes.
- Prepare summary reports for departing volunteers and trainees, highlighting their contributions and research findings.
- Present research outcomes to relevant stakeholders, including local government agencies and conservation partners.
