Perhentian Turtle Research
Coordinator Internship

Perhentian Turtle Project is a sea turtle conservation project in the Perhentian Islands. Since 2015, we have collected data for photographic identification to monitor the underwater & nesting populations of sea turtles. Recently, PTP has started specific scientific studies alongside the population studies such as nest temperature monitoring, stranding management & necropsy, etc. As a research coordinator, you are responsible for day-to-day project activities while also leading specific research and studies. You will collect and analyze foraging, nesting, and hatchery data on a daily basis in addition to ensuring the data are complete and organized at all times. Consequently, you will pick up vital field skills via kayaking, free-diving, photographing sea turtles underwater and on a nesting beach, nightly beach patrols and hatchery management. Being a research coordinator will also require you to interact regularly with volunteers by introducing them to and leading them on our data collection activities.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead in-water population surveys (kayak/boat surveys) and its subsequent data management & analysis.
• Lead nesting population surveys (night patrols & hatchery work) and its subsequent data management & analysis
• Conduct population monitoring using photographic identification methods. 
• Monitor and maintain the quality and accuracy of collected data by reviewing and back-up on a weekly basis.
• Provide leadership and guidance to volunteers that rotate on a weekly basis. 
• Strengthen relationships with DOF rangers and the surrounding community by maintaining consistent, respectful, and proactive communication.
• Maintain strict adherence to safety precautions and SOPs during all water-based activities, ensuring that every volunteer is properly briefed, supervised, and accounted for throughout the session.

• Lead the completion of key projects, such as creating informative displays and producing monthly research impact reports to be shared with stakeholders.
• Proactively identify and execute new research initiatives, mini-projects, opportunities for data sharing, and strategies to promote sustainable practices

General Responsibilities and Work Details

• Maintain the overall cleanliness and organisation of the project house and Tiga Ruang’s campsite by guiding team members and volunteers through structured, rota-based daily chores.
• Carry out cooking responsibilities for the group as part of a rotational schedule – minimum of one dinner a week for a maximum of 8pax.
• Coordinate and improve conservation awareness initiatives for stakeholders, employing strategies such as informational booths, interactive sessions, and educational talks to promote engagement and understanding.
• Follow agreed timetables to deliver work in a timely fashion.
• Be a professional example of a leader and marine conservationist to local community members, volunteers and team members.
• Adherence to all safety measures, protocols, procedures and budgets as directed by Fuze Ecoteer.
• Any other duties that may be required include helping with group events, cover for team member’s leave and illness, shop for project supplies (e.g. food and cleaning supplies), and participate in local/island events.
• 6 working days per week with 1 off day depending on the schedule availability & discretion of the project manager.
• An additional block of 4 days off every month during project season (Mar to Nov) depending on availability and the discretion of the project manager.
• A maximum of 7 off days (for visa run) during project season depending on the availability and discretion of the project manager.
• The successful candidate will report to the Project Manager of Perhentian Turtle Project and work together with other team members to reach the project’s objectives.

Requirements

• Interest and passion for sea turtle and marine conservation as well as the work of Fuze Ecoteer.
• Interest and experience in outdoor work activities especially water-related activities.
• Confident swimmer and comfortable treading in an open water environment.
• Interest in scuba diving and freediving (experience preferred).
• Strong observational skills, high acuity and attention to detail in particular regards to research training and monitoring.
• Strong observational skills, high acuity and attention to detail in particular regards to data collection, management, organization, analysis and interpretation. 
• Able to work (awake, alert, and active) night shifts in tough conditions and on a small isolated island with limited resources.
• Able to adapt to outdoor, basic and rustic living accommodations.
• Able to be open-minded, respectful, willing, and determined to try and learn new things, skills,  languages, and cultures.
• Able to be flexible and quick to adapt to new surroundings – especially humid tropical climates and changes in sleep schedules –  and sudden changes in project schedules.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and interest in learning Bahasa Malaysia.
• Experience in public outreach and outdoor education.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team to deliver conservation projects with minimal supervision.
• Leadership skills – strong sense of responsibility, time management,  discipline and display  professional demeanor to volunteers, colleagues and villagers at all times.
• Proficient in Windows OS and Microsoft Office.

Benefits

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of sea turtle and marine conservation by engaging with the environmental, social, and legal dimensions of field-based work.
• Develop better leadership, communication and data analytics skills. 
• Free accommodation – you will live in the project house, sharing a room with at most 3 other people.
• Free food – main meals (communal food in the project house kitchen for breakfast, packed lunch & home-cooked dinner at the project house) and access to communal food in the kitchen unless otherwise specified. 
• Free wifi available at the project house.
• All work-related expenses within the islands starting from arrival at Kuala Besut jetty (mainland jetty).
• Allowance of RM250 per month from the 7 months onwards if you are able to commit to a longer-term internship.
• Opportunities to join adventure and service programmes, with a daily allowance depending on hours worked.

Reference letter upon request after the completion of the internship period.

How To Apply

Please submit your CV, and Cover Letter to adventure@fuze-ecoteer.com and please include the title of the role you are applying for.

For more information or if you have any further questions about the role please email adventure@fuze-ecoteer.com