WorkInCharities LogoWorkInCharities
Sign in

Connect with a cause that needs you!

ViewApply Now

Sea Turtle Conservation Officer

OLIVE RIDLEY PROJECT
L. Maavah
Full-time
10th April 2026
Listed today

Sea Turtle Conservation Officer, L. Maavah


Job Reference Code: STCOM002
Application Deadline: 10 April 2026
Location: L. Maavah, Maldives
Duration: 4 months contract with possibility to extend subject to funding
Start Date: 1st may 2026
Hours: 40 per week 
Compensation: US$ 700 per month
Requirements: Resident of L. Maavah and fluency in Dhivehi and English

About ORP

Olive Ridley Project (ORP) is is dedicated to protecting sea turtles and their habitats through rescue and conservation medicine, scientific research, and educational outreach. From treating injured and sick sea turtles to advancing research and awareness of sea turtle populations, health, and ocean threats, our work is guided by a One Health approach that recognises the interconnectedness of wildlife, people, and the marine environment.

We are a growing and ambitious charity at the forefront of sea turtle conservation, working alongside fishing communities, researchers, and policymakers to create practical, evidence-based solutions to some of the most complex challenges facing our oceans. At the heart of ORP is a passionate, collaborative team united by a shared purpose and a deep respect for the natural world.

Headquartered in the UK, with field bases in Kenya, Maldives, Oman, Pakistan, and Seychelles, we combine global reach with local partnerships to deliver meaningful, lasting impact for sea turtles and the ecosystems they help sustain.

Background

Olive Ridley Project in partnership with Laamu Maavah Council are working together towards sea turtle conservation in L. Maavah. The project is part of the Laamu Sea Turtle Guardian Programme, funded by Six Senses Laamu.

About the position

The primary focus of the project is to gather data on sea turtle illegal take in L. Maavah through physical and drone monitoring surveys – training and equipment will be provided. Additionally, we will be conducting regular education and awareness sessions with schools, NGOs, and other key stakeholders. Localised educational materials based on atoll-specific cultural surveys will also be developed under this project, with the aim of fostering love for sea turtle conservation in the atoll.

The Sea Turtle Conservation Officer will be working from Maavah Council office, and will be reporting to the Sea Turtle Ranger Programme Coordinator and Maavah Council. The Conservation Officer will also work closely with ORP’s Sea Turtle Biologist based at Six Senses Laamu with the Maldives Underwater Initiative, and with the Sea Turtle Ranger & Community Officer based in L. Gan-Fonadhoo.

Main activities & responsibilities

  • Physical and drone monitoring of selected islands in the area for illegal take of sea turtles and sea turtle nests, data collection and reporting, including:
    • Conduct drone monitoring of nesting beach and surrounding lagoon as recommended by ORP
    • Rescue sea turtles found in the area under guidance from ORP;
    • Report all incidents of illegal take to EPA and coordinate with Maavah Council
    • Data collection on nesting and poaching frequency
    • Report writing
  • Supporting project implementation, including preparing project updates and building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders
  • Coordinate education and outreach activities in L. Maavah
  • Assist the ORP Laamu team with education and outreach activities in the atoll, including with developing localised educational materials in the form of video content and presentations

What we are looking for

Requirements

  • Resident of L. Maavah
  • Legal right to live and work in the Maldives
  • Fluency in spoken and written Dhivehi and English
  • 18+ years of age
  • Minimum 2 years work experience on a local island
  • Completed O’levels
  • Computer literacy
  • Willing to learn and work as part the team
  • Passionate about marine conservation

Assets

  • Interest/experience working with community-based organisations
  • Confident public speaker
  • Drone pilot licence or previous drone experience

How to apply

If you are interested in joining the ORP team as a Sea Turtle Conservation Officer and meet the requirements for this rewarding opportunity, please submit the following items to isha.afeef@oliveridleyproject.org:

  • A brief cover letter explaining your motivation for applying for this role
  • Your CV
  • Copy of your National Identification Card (or Passport)

Please include Job Reference STCOM002 + Your Full Name in the email subject line.Application deadline: 10th April 2026.

This post is subject to a clear police certificate.

Equal opportunities

ORP is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse working environment. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy or parental status, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.