Multilingual Volunteer Naturalist / Wildlife Tour Guide

Natural Sciences
Portugal
Vila Franca do Campo (São Miguel Island, Azores)
Period: 
1 Apr, 2022 to 31 Oct, 2022
Deadline: 
15 Feb, 2022

General information

Duration: 
6 months
Commitment: 
Full-time
Description: 

We are looking for ocean loving people, to join an entry-level position as Volunteer Wildlife & Naturalist Guide in our multinational guides team. The position is essentially a tourism job, with elements of marine research.

TERRA AZUL is a marine eco-tour operator since 2001, specialized in whale watching and marine wildlife tours, based at the marina of Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel – Azores Islands, Portugal. Our work concentrates on responsible ecotourism with scientific education, research contribution, wildlife conservation, local culture – and the highest respect for nature. The company proudly supports local research & conservation projects in the Azores focusing on cetaceans, sea turtles and marine birds.

Role responsibilities include:

  • Educating visitors about cetaceans, local marine species, natural habitat, behavioural patterns and onboard boat safety.
  • Touring visitors on wildlife tours with an experienced skipper, proactively informing and answering visitor questions.
  • Collecting field imagery and data for local wildlife research & conservation projects.
  • Contributing to media production and featuring on the company’s online blog and social media.
  • Ensuring the highest level of whale watching standards at all times.
  • Assisting in regular business operation, and collaborating with any assigned tasks.

 

We are looking for someone personable, presentable, dynamic, organized and highly motivated, with good communication skills, and a strong passion for everything involving nature, especially the ocean.

Requirements:

  • Languages: English and a second language (preferably German or French).
  • Licenses: boat driving license.
  • Good physical and emotional condition – fit to work at sea, to act as first mate, handling ropes, and monitoring safety on the vessel.

 

Preferences:

  • Background education in Marine Biology, Science, Education, Conservation, Environmental Studies or related subjects.
  • Previous experience as a naturalist or wildlife guide is a plus.
  • Photography, video or social media skills are a plus.
  • EU car driving license is a plus.
  • Third language is a plus.

 

Offer & benefits:

  • 50% subsidy on flights (inbound & outbound).
  • 100% subsidized accommodation (excl. gas expenses).
  • Pocket money for island living.
  • Wildlife guide & tour support training.
  • Education about Azorean marine megafauna and the marine ecosystem.
  • Outstanding marine experiences with wild cetaceans.
  • Unique working environment in a multinational team.
  • Opportunity to contribute to wildlife research & conservation.

 

This role is based at our headquarters in the marina of Vila Franca do Campo, in São Miguel – Azores Islands, Portugal.

About the location:
The Azores Islands are a very unique place when it comes to marine animals and other wildlife. With 4 “resident” cetacean species (including sperm whales) and a total of 28 species record to date, we register a 98% chance of spotting cetaceans with an average of 3 species per tour. In your free time there are a wide range of activities available for you to enjoy on the island. Explore São Miguel’s magnificent sights and landscapes, relax on the beach, go snorkelling or SCUBA diving (special discounts with our partner available) or step into Ponta Delgada’s night life. Vila Franca do Campo is a small town, and the marina, supermarkets, cafes and many other amenities are within walking distance.

To find out more about TERRA AZUL™ and the Azores Islands, please visit:
https://www.azoreswhalewatch.com

Compensation: 
Financial compensation
Accommodation
Other
Years of Experience required: 
No

Keywords

5 days work, 2 days off  whale watching  cetaceans  marine wildlife  ocean  ecotourism  wildlife tourism  guide  naturalist  tourism  nature  azores  marine biologist  
Requirements
Languages: 
English: Proficient User C1
Level of Studies: 
Bachelor
Skills: 
Boat licence