Osa Conservation is seeking an energetic and motivated Research Field Assistant for our Restoration Program. We are looking for a hard-working, dedicated graduate who love the outdoors and is passionate about restoring natural landscapes.
The position is required to stay a minimum of 6 months and must be at least 18 years of age. Fluency in Spanish and English are highly desired (or at least basic Spanish skills and a desire to learn). Ideal RFA’s will also have a background in a science field and/or experience with biological field work.
Having a degree in biology, environmental science, conservation or related subjects, and previous experience in restoration activities would be desirable. Applicants should hold a full driving license, be confident driving in Costa Rica, provide their own insurance cover (with repatriation), and ideally have experience working wth local community participants.
The participant will work on two principal projects:
Forest restoration trials using a fast-growing native pioneer tree species. Based on the Osa Verde Biofarm X40 half hectare plots are being set up on an abandoned pastureland. These plots will contain sub-monitoring plots with up to 30 native tree species.
Mangrove restoration trials. To be carried out in the Humedal Nacional Térraba Sierpe OC will be trialling restoration strategies for four species of mangroves, in conjunction with local communities of the region.
RFAs will be stationed at Osa Verde Agricultural farm located where the rainforest meets the sea. Accommodations include room and board in shared rooms with bunk beds. You will be provided 1 cooked meal a day centered around local Costa Rican cuisine, and food provisions and facilities to cook and prepare other meals along with other RFAs; and refreshing cold water showers (which are appreciated most days out here).
Guidance will be provided locally by project coordinators Max Villalobos and Dr Andrew Whitworth and local Costa Rican specialist staff.
To apply, email at andywhitworth@osaconservation.org with subject line “RFA Restoration Application” with your resume (maximum 2 sides) and cover letter (maximum 1 side). If guidelines are not followed, applications risk not being reviewed.
Applications due by July 14th 2017.
Position due to ideally start in Costa Rica by August 2017.