Volunteer Coordinator, Orangutan Sanctuary

The Great Projects have developed a variety of different wildlife conservation initiatives around the world with the aim of preserving endangered wildlife through responsible tourism.

We are currently seeking a Volunteer Coordinator to manage our volunteer program at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary in Indonesian Borneo. This sanctuary is situated in Central Kalimantan and is currently home to nearly 400 orangutans with many working through the rehabilitation process so that they may be released back into the wild.

The role involves managing a group of up to 8 paying volunteers and providing them with an incredible volunteer holiday experience, whilst also maintaining a working ethical volunteer program where the animals are the primary concern.

The successful candidate will have experience managing a volunteer project or have volunteered with animals at a conservation project. They will be approachable and friendly, passionate about orangutan conservation and have excellent organisational skills. Work at the Orangutan Sanctuary can change in an instant and so they must also be able to think on their feet and adapt where necessary.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to

• Liaising with the sanctuary staff to establish what work is needed that will be most beneficial to the orangutans
• Following, and adapting where necessary, an itinerary for the volunteers
• Purchasing and preparing enrichment items for the volunteer program
• Giving a health and safety orientation to each group

Required skills/attributes

• Passion for conservation
• Physically fit
• Quick learner
• Patient working with people
• Able to spend long periods of time away from family and friends
• Organised and able to manage a budget

Desirable attributes

• Hands-on experience in animal husbandry with great apes
• Degree in primatology or a conservation-related field
• Experience living in a developing country

Additional Information

This position is offered on an initial contract term of March 31st - September 30th. During this time you will be accommodated at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary in Indonesian Borneo and will work with the local team to run the volunteer project with new volunteers arriving every 2-4 weeks. All travel, accommodation and meals are included.

Apply

If you would like to apply for this position, please email a copy of your CV, cover letter, and any additional documentation you deem appropriate to kate@thegreatprojects.com by March 12th.

*Individuals or a couple may apply.