Expedition Leader

  Madagascar

Andavadoaka

Length of Position: 9 months min
Duration of Program: 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks

Description: We are currently looking for an Expedition Manager to lead our marine conservation and research programme in Andavadoaka, southwest Madagascar. The position is voluntary, and for a minimum period of 9 months.

The position involves leading a team of up to 30 research staff and volunteers, representing Blue Ventures interests in Madagascar, and directing the efficient day to day running of the research camp. The successful applicant must have good physical fitness, a working command of French, knowledge of accounts, experience of living and working in the developing world, and the motivation and enthusiasm required to work long hours in a challenging and extremely remote tropical environment. Successful expedition management requires excellent communication, leadership, diplomatic and interpersonal skills. In addition, the chosen applicant must have the initiative to develop innovate solutions to the variety of complex logistical and managerial problems that will present themselves during the course of the position. Fundamental to the position are an ability to anticipate problems before they arise and to react quickly and efficiently under pressure. Applicants should be qualified SCUBA divers with a keen interest in marine biology and conservation. The position includes an initial 4 week in-field training period which will give the successful applicant time to familiarise his or herself with the workings of the site.

Highlights: Live abroad in remote locations, run a young enthusiastic team.

While engaged in our program you will get to have a glimpse of Madagascar, the 4th largest island in the world that has been termed a "biodiversity hotspot" by ecologists, as 80% of the plant and animal species are unique to the island - a consequence of its 80 million year isolation. In the tropical seas off the southwest coast of Madagascar lies the 4th largest coral reef in the world, the Grand Récif de Tuléar. Our research site is located next to it, on the most westerly point of the island.

Blue Ventures' field research & conservation projects are carried out by our overseas volunteers, who work closely with our field research scientists and camp staff. Our research aims to identify strategies and targets that Blue Ventures, local communities and local NGOs can work towards to develop sustainable local environmental management plans for these unique reef systems.

These plans will focus on improving the quality of life of the local communities who depend on these marine resources while maintaining the biological diversity and productivity of the reefs. Considering potential threats to Andavadoakas reefs, and as a priority within the framework of the National Strategy for the Conservation of Biodiversity in Madagascar, it is now critical that data be gathered for use in local environmental management plans.

Qualifications: See job description

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Madagascar Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview
• Resume
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Blue Ventures's Mission Statement: To give coastal communities the knowledge and skills they need to live sustainably.

Year Founded: 2001