About Company
&Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge is an award-winning private island paradise renowned for its pristine natural beauty, exceptional marine biodiversity, and unwavering commitment to sustainable luxury tourism. Located just off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania, our exclusive barefoot sanctuary offers guests unparalleled diving, snorkeling, and marine wildlife encounters. Beyond providing world-class hospitality, &Beyond is deeply committed to conservation and community development through its WILDCommunity program, striving to make a positive impact on the ecosystems and local populations where we operate. Joining &Beyond means becoming part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering extraordinary guest experiences while championing critical conservation initiatives that protect our planet’s precious natural heritage.
Job Description
Are you passionate about conservation, marine life, and meticulous data collection? Do you thrive in unique, inspiring environments and possess an unwavering commitment to accuracy? &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge invites you to join our dedicated team as a Part-Time Research Data Collector, offering flexible schedules tailored to project needs and island operations. This unique opportunity places you at the heart of one of Africa’s most pristine marine ecosystems, where your work will directly contribute to vital conservation efforts and enhance our understanding of Mnemba Island’s rich biodiversity. We are looking for an individual who is adaptable, self-motivated, and comfortable working independently or as part of a small, specialized team in an outdoor, island environment.
As a Research Data Collector, you will be instrumental in gathering critical information related to our ongoing marine and terrestrial research projects. This could involve anything from monitoring coral reef health, tracking specific marine species (e.g., turtles, dolphins, migratory birds), observing plant populations, or collecting data on environmental parameters such as water quality, sediment composition, or habitat conditions. Your role will require a keen eye for detail, excellent observational skills, and the ability to accurately record and organize information in various formats. You will work closely with our resident marine biologists, conservation managers, and lodge staff, becoming a key contributor to our scientific understanding of this special island.
The flexible nature of this role means you will be scheduled based on specific research project timelines, seasonal requirements, and the availability of phenomena to observe. This could involve early morning field work, underwater observations, terrestrial surveys, or dedicated data entry sessions. This position is ideal for individuals seeking to blend their passion for science and nature with a desire for a flexible work arrangement, all while living and working in an unparalleled natural paradise. Your contributions will not only support &Beyond’s commitment to responsible tourism but also feed into broader regional and international conservation databases, making a tangible difference in protecting our planet’s precious resources. Embrace the chance to be part of a mission that extends beyond hospitality, safeguarding Mnemba’s natural heritage for future generations.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct systematic data collection on marine and terrestrial ecosystems as per established research protocols.
- Accurately record observational data, measurements, and other relevant information using specified tools and methods (e.g., datasheets, GPS, cameras, dive computers).
- Assist with the deployment and retrieval of monitoring equipment (e.g., underwater cameras, temperature loggers, transect lines).
- Perform data entry, organization, and preliminary quality checks to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to scientific standards.
- Collaborate effectively with marine biologists, conservation managers, and other team members, communicating findings and challenges proactively.
- Adhere strictly to ethical guidelines, safety protocols, and conservation best practices during all field activities, minimizing environmental impact.
- Report any unusual observations, equipment malfunctions, or safety concerns promptly to the supervising research lead.
- Participate in regular team meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and share insights and findings.
- Maintain and organize field equipment and supplies, ensuring their proper care and readiness for use.
Required Skills
- Proven experience in data collection, preferably in environmental, biological, or social research contexts (minimum 1 year).
- Strong observational skills and meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to accurately record and manage data, both manually and digitally, using various tools and software.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with a capacity to work collaboratively.
- Proficient in basic computer applications, especially Microsoft Excel for data entry and basic analysis.
- Physical fitness and ability to work outdoors in varying tropical weather conditions (sun, heat, humidity, rain).
- Comfortability with water-based activities (e.g., snorkeling, swimming) and operating in marine environments for extended periods.
- High degree of self-motivation, reliability, and excellent time management skills for flexible scheduling.
- A genuine passion for conservation, marine wildlife, and natural sciences.
Preferred Qualifications
- A diploma or degree in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Ecology, Conservation, or a related scientific field.
- Experience with GPS devices, field photography, or specialized research equipment (e.g., remotely operated vehicles, dive computers).
- Basic knowledge of local marine or terrestrial flora and fauna of Zanzibar and the East African coast.
- PADI Open Water Diver certification or equivalent (for underwater data collection and monitoring).
- Previous experience working in remote, island, or challenging field environments.
- Fluency in Swahili is considered a significant advantage for local interactions and community engagement.
Perks & Benefits
- Opportunity to work in one of the world's most beautiful and biologically diverse marine protected areas.
- Direct contribution to significant and impactful conservation and research initiatives.
- Flexible working hours to accommodate project needs and personal commitments, promoting work-life balance.
- Access to professional development and training opportunities in marine conservation and research methodologies.
- A supportive and passionate team environment dedicated to making a tangible difference in conservation.
- Subsidized meals during working hours on the island, ensuring comfort and convenience.
- Potential for accommodation assistance for project duration, to be discussed based on terms of engagement.
- Exposure to international conservation best practices and networking opportunities within the field.
How to Apply
We invite qualified candidates who are eager to contribute to our conservation mission to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your comprehensive CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, your passion for conservation, and how your skills align with the requirements of this unique role. In your cover letter, please also indicate your availability for flexible scheduling and any specific research interests you may have. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our dedicated team.