Interns/Survey Volunteers for Cetacean Distribution Survey in the Faroe Islands

30^th April – 3^rd August 2013 (14 weeks)

Planet Whale is recruiting two interns/survey assistants for a cetacean survey project in the Faroe Islands, led by a Lead Scientific Officer, reporting to the Planet Whale team based in Brighton, UK. This project, supported by WSPA, will focus on establishing areas of high site fidelity for cetaceans around the Faroe Islands, with a particular emphasis on orcas. The study, now in its second year, aims to develop a community-based sightings network to further our understanding of the distribution of cetaceans around the islands. Emphasis will also be placed on the development of a photo-ID catalogue for orcas. A primary goal of the project is to assess the potential for whale and dolphin watching on the islands as a means of diversifying wildlife ecotourism. 

Skills and experience:

•  Land-based cetacean survey experience  - you will carry out cliff-top cetacean survey work at a number of sites on the islands, using angle and distance measuring equipment to obtain the exact position of any cetaceans sighted, and a spotting scope for species identification and behavioural observations.
  
•  Willingness to spend long hours (often alone) in the field when the weather allows. Highly motivated and able to concentrate for several hours at a time.
  
• Photo identification experience preferred – you will assist in the development of a killer whale photo identification catalogue. While all cetacean sightings will be recorded, the project’s key focus will be to study orcas.
  
• Good “people skills” – you will  help run a small cetacean 'exhibition space' and assist with a questionnaire designed for the public.
  
• Ability to work in a team environment maintaining focus on work quality.
  
• Good written and spoken English. Knowledge of Faroese/Danish/Icelandic considered an advantage but we welcome other applications.
  
• Preferably educated to at least degree level in marine science/biology.
  
• Driving license preferable.
  

During the survey period (May, June and July) volunteers will be allocated at least one day off per week, usually during bad weather. This may include working in some fairly ‘wild’ weather – please be aware of this! You will be fully supported by our office team in Brighton & Hove, UK.

The positions will not be paid, but all accommodation and travel costs will be covered, including flights to the Faroe Islands. Shared accommodation and a food budget will be provided and cooking/cleaning will be shared between the three members of the team. You will need to have your own laptop/smartphone so we can regularly communicate online.

Candidates will either be interviewed in Brighton, UK or via telephone/skype. There is also a possibility of interviews at the ECS conference in Setubal, Portugal, early April if more convenient (please mention this in your application). Applications from within the Faroe Islands, Iceland and Denmark are encouraged. 

To apply please send your CV and covering letter to sarahjackson@planetwhale.com with “Survey Volunteer Application” as the subject header.

Closing date for applications is 4^th April, with interviews expected to take place the following week.

Many thanks,