Overview

Working location: Kefalonia, Greece

Season: April – October 2024

Contract duration: 3-6 months, dependent on availability

Reports to: Greece Program Leader (Wildlife Sense) and Greece Program Director

About GVI

At GVI, we’re driven by the desire to make a positive impact on our planet and its people. Our dedicated teams are actively working to address global challenges and together, we leverage a diverse set of specialised skills to pursue a shared vision: fostering a brighter and more sustainable future for all.

We offer award-winning conservation and community development programs in 13 countries, all aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and led by our teams and experts from the communities we operate in.

Working at GVI is fast-paced and fun. We value passion, authenticity and innovation, and we treat each other with respect. But we can do better than words to show you who we are! To see what it’s really like to work for GVI, click here.

About the role

This role is situated amidst the stunning landscapes of Kefalonia, where you will lead and support participants in focusing on coastal conservation and protecting the species within it. These species include endangered sea turtles and their vital marine habitats.

Working in collaboration with the Wildlife Sense Field Leader and Coordinators, you will be GVI’s representative on the Greece staff team. As a Program Officer, you’ll play a pivotal role in our efforts, guiding international participants through a range of impactful activities aimed at coastal conservation while protecting our wildlife habitats, including sea turtles.

If you’re passionate about conservation, crave hands-on fieldwork experience, and relish the chance to contribute to a meaningful cause in one of the world’s most breathtaking locations, then this role is your gateway to an unforgettable journey of discovery and impact.

Role and responsibilities:

  • Be the GVI representative on the ground, ensuring there is a seamless alignment between our partner, GVI and the participants
  • Assist the field leader in training new participants through delivering presentations and in the field
  • Assist the field leader in organizing the work schedule (ROTA) for participants when needed
  • Ensure the protocols are followed in the field, and all participants are kept safe according to the Health and Safety standards
  • Help collect and organize photos
  • Collect, manage and enter the data into the database accurately and according to protocol
  • Accompany participant teams on the field for initial training
  • Evaluate each participant’s learning ability and provide feedback
  • Evaluate the operation of the project and provide feedback to the field leader and coordinators
  • Organize the maintenance of equipment and facilitate replacement or repair as necessary
  • Organize and take part in the maintenance and cleaning of the accommodation with the participants
  • Attend all and potentially lead participants meetings
  • Join weekly GVI Program Management meetings
  • Lead the components for GVI Internships and Research Fellowships to ensure delivery according to product standards
  • Ensure hub sheets are up to date and photos and MVIs are shared in Family Skype group
  • Ensure GVI’s health and safety standards are adhered to
  • Oversee NPS and Feedback surveys are collected

Requirements for the role:

Professional skills and experience

  • Previous experience with GVI is essential
  • Valid driver’s license and can transport volunteers in a large vehicle safely and confidently
  • Current first aid and lifeguard certification
  • Computer-literate performer with software proficiency (e.g. Excel and PowerPoint)
  • Proficient in GIS software (Ideally QGIS)

Personal attributes

  • Willingness to work long hours while maintaining energy and stamina
  • Strong communication, decision making, logistical, and organizational skills
  • No conflicting summer commitments including travel, work, or other leave of absence
  • Proven ability to help effectively manage and organize volunteers and interns
  • Good physical condition (able to participate in physical activity)
  • Goal-driven individual who maintains a productive atmosphere and confidently motivates, mobilizes and coaches volunteers
  • Personable professional whose strengths include cultural sensitivity and an ability to build rapport with a diverse team in a multicultural setting

Package & Benefits:

  • Stipend: €200 euros per month.
  • Additional benefits: Free accommodation for the duration of the Project. Food will be provided at no cost for project days (5 days a week).
  • Experience: You will gain significant experience in field research techniques, learn how to manage multiple researchers at once and acquire experience with research and data management.

To apply:

Please send your CV along with a cover letter stating why you feel you would be best suited to this position at GVI.

Please note: We will do our utmost to respond to all applicants, however, given the large volume of applications we receive, this isn’t always possible. If you do not hear back from us within three-four weeks, please take it that on this occasion your application was unsuccessful.