Conservation Officer

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Summary

Title: Conservation Officer

Reports to: Chief Conservation Ranger/Protected Areas Manager

Employment Type: Contract (1 Year) – Renewable upon recommendation and performance evaluation

Salary/Wages: Dependent on qualifications and experience. Salary range is $300 – $400 per week.

Benefits: Monthly ration stipend, hardship allowances, training opportunities. Accommodation will be provided while on duty.

Work Schedule: Typically, 5 days on (on site) and 2 days off. Variable as needed. May include weekends and holidays.

Protected Areas Assigned: Monkey Bay National Park and Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Background

Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary staff are expected to work cooperatively with others, demonstrate flexibility in organizing work, have good communication skills and demonstrate thoughtfulness in decision making. Staff must be non-judgmental, receptive in approach and reflect a genuine concern for sustainable forest management and respect and commitment to forest stakeholders.

The Maya Forest Corridor (MFC) landscape is a mosaic of secondary forest, small farms, large- scale agriculture, pastures, forest fragments and riverine habitat in central Belize. The MFC itself is comprised of forested lands that connect the two largest forest blocks in Belize. The Central Belize Corridor was recognized by the Government of Belize as an area of natural significance in the first National Protected Areas System Plan in 2005. The sustainable use of the natural resources in the MFC is important to ensure the viability of the protected areas system in Belize.

As a stakeholder in the Maya Forest Corridor, Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary manages 3000+ acres of private and government land for the protection and conservation of its natural ecosystems and wildlife. Conservation officers (Rangers) at Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary will be responsible for the day-to-day management of this important landscape. Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is also an Environmental Education facility that hosts tourists and student groups. The Protected Areas Team will occasionally be tasked with leading educational activities for these groups both at the Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Monkey Bay National Park.

The Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary received funding from the Belize Nature Conservation Fund (BNCF) which is managed by the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT). The fund will be used to implement the project entitled “Sustaining the Integrity of the Monkey Bay National Park through Improved Resource Management.”

The overall goal of the project is to contribute towards improved protection and biodiversity conservation of priority ecosystems within the Monkey Bay National Park and to a larger extent the Maya Forest Corridor (MFC).

Key Responsibilities

  1. Resource management: 

    • Assist team members in conducting practical work in construction, repair, and  maintenance of trail systems, equipment, structures, signs, and other NGO assets. 

    • Assist with fire prevention, firefighting, and other practical activities within the Maya  Forest Corridor based on established procedures. 

  2. Law Enforcement and Security: 

    • Ensure the enforcement of park regulations and local laws to prevent illegal activities,  such as poaching, logging, hunting, and vandalism. 

    • Work with law enforcement agencies, local authorities, and partner organizations to  address security risks and maintain a safe environment for visitors and wildlife. 

    • Conduct surveillance, monitoring, and enforcement patrols as scheduled by  department supervisors.  

    • Conduct jungle patrols that require overnight camping in the national park.

    • Responsible for operating SMART device to conduct patrols and make observations  while on patrol. 

    • Support team with uploading SMART patrols onto SMART Connect upon return  from patrols. 

  3. Visitor Engagement and Education: 

    • Assist in the design and implementation of environmental education programs to raise  awareness about the protected area's significance and foster a sense of stewardship  among visitors.

    • Support team by interacting with visitors, addressing their questions and concerns  while promoting responsible behavior within the park. 

  4. Community Outreach, Collaborations and Stakeholder Management: 

    • Assist with establishing and maintaining strong partnerships with local communities,  NGOs, and government agencies to foster support for conservation efforts.

    • Collaborate with researchers, scientists, and academics to support ongoing studies and  initiatives within the protected area. 

    • Work with local environmental clubs and youth groups on field outings and  environmental education programs.  

    • Deliver environmental education presentations to various stakeholder groups. 

  5. Biodiversity Research and Monitoring: 

    • Assist with facilitating interns, research staff, and partner organization staff in  conducting biodiversity census, monitoring, and survey work. (camera trap survey  and Yellow Head Parrot monitoring survey) 

    • Lead the data collection effort for the various environmental monitoring programs  under the Protected Areas program.  

    • Assist with data entry and analysis.  

  6. Emergency Response and Safety: 

    • Assist in the development and implementation of emergency response plans to handle  natural disasters, wildlife conflicts, and other critical incidents. 

    • Assist in ensuring that all staff members and visitors follow safety protocols.

    • Participate fully in emergency response operations. 

Required Qualifications and Experience 

  1. Minimum High School Diploma 

  2. Ability to establish and maintain strong and effective working relationships.

  3. Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, presentation, and communication skills. 

  4. Strong critical thinking and presentation skills.  

  5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.  

  6. Maintain an appropriate level of physical fitness and outdoor skills necessary for  conducting patrols and monitoring in wilderness settings.  

  7. Cultural awareness and sensitivity.  

  8. Experience with Microsoft Office and basic computer skills.  

  9. Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications and Experience 

  1. Associates or bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, natural resource  management, or related field. 

  2. Experience in park management, wildlife conservation, or environmental protection. 

  3. Ability to properly identify native flora and fauna.  

  4. Experience in law enforcement, emergency response, and risk management within natural  environments. 

  5. Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders and  community members. 

  6. Demonstrated commitment to conservation ethics and sustainable practices.

  7. Multilingual applicants (Spanish / English) are preferred.  

Contract Term 

This contract is open to one individual.  

It is expected that the assignment will commence March 15th, 2024, and be completed by  March 15th, 2025.  

There is a possibility for a contract extension based on performance, supervisor recommendation,  and department budget.  

How to Apply:  

Submit the following documents to: hrmmonkeybay@gmail.com 

  1. C.V. 

  2. Copies of certificates or supporting documents 

  3. Letter of interest 

  4. Recent police record (receipt is acceptable) 

    ***APPLICATION DEADLINE*** 

FEBRUARY 29, 2024

 
 

Conservation Ranger

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Summary

Duty Station: Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Mile 31.5 George Price Highway

Application Deadline: September 23rd, 2022, no later than 4:00 p.m.

Status: Full-time, 40 hrs. per week and overtime if required.

Work Schedule: Variable as needed. May include weekends and holidays

Compensation: $320 / week base pay. Negotiable based on qualifications and experience.

Background

The Maya Forest Corridor (MFC) landscape is a mosaic of secondary forest, small farms, large-scale agriculture, pastures, forest fragments and riverine habitat in central Belize. The MFC itself is comprised of forested lands that connect the two largest forest blocks in Belize: the northern forest block that includes the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area (RBCMA), the Yalbac, Laguna Seca and Gallon Jug private lands, and the Maya Mountains Massif (MMM) in the south. The Central Belize Corridor was recognized by the Government of Belize as an area of natural significance in the first National Protected Areas System Plan in 2005. The sustainable use of the natural resources in the MFC is important to ensure the viability of the protected areas system in Belize.

As a stakeholder in the Maya Forest Corridor, Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (MBWS) manages 1000 acres of private land for the protection and conservation of its natural ecosystems and wildlife. Conservation Rangers at Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the protected areas under the jurisdiction of Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Rangers will occasionally act in the capacity of a guide to facilitate visitors, environmental education groups, and study abroad programs on the property. Occasionally, MBWS Rangers may be assigned to assist the staff of other MFC stakeholder organizations in land management, data collection, and law enforcement activities.

Minimum Qualifications and Skills

  • High School Diploma

  • Command of the English language along with excellent written communication, oral communication, and public speaking skills.

  • 3 years’ experience working in the capacity of a park ranger, field technician, naturalist tour guide, or similar job.

  • Physically fit and able to do manual labor in demanding conditions as needed – fitnes will be assessed.

  • Valid “Class A” driver’s license - manual transmission.

  • Possess a working knowledge of Belize’s flora and fauna, its ecosystems, and the national protected areas system.

  • Candidate should be highly motivated and able to work both independently and cooperatively with others, demonstrate flexibility in organizing work, have good communication skills and demonstrate thoughtfulness in decision making.

  • Candidate must be non-judgmental, receptive in approach and reflect a genuine interest hospitality, education, and environmental conservation.

  • No Criminal History

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

  • Associates Degree or higher in Natural Resources Management, Biology, or related field.

  • Multi-lingual – Fluency in English and Spanish

  • Valid Driver’s License – Class A & C

  • Valid Tour Guide License

  • Valid Special Constable Certificate

  • Valid First Aid Certification – Advanced or Wilderness First Aid training is an asset.

  • Experience using the Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART) to record data.

  • Experience using and maintaining field equipment such as Maps, Compass, GPS, Camera Traps, Radios, Drones, and Digital Cameras.

  • Strong field identification skills (Birds, Mammals, Reptiles, Amphibians, Insects, Plants)

  • Experience as an environmental educator.

  • Experience with prescribed fire or wildland fire management.

  • Computer skills including a working knowledge of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Specific Tasks and Responsibilities

  • Implementation of activities related to law enforcement and compliance with forest and wildlife laws throughout the sanctuary and the MFC landscape.

  • Implementation of biological monitoring programs such as camera trapping, PROALAS bird surveys, permanent sampling plots (PSPs), water quality, nest site surveys, etc.

  • Assisting with land and biodiversity management programs including Fire Management and Forest Restoration projects.

  • Assisting interns, researchers, student groups, and partner organization staff in conducting census, monitoring, and survey work.

  • Work with team members in conducting practical work in construction, repair and maintenance of trail systems, equipment, and other NGO assets.

  • Build and foster relationships with the buffering MFC communities to gain increased understanding of community dynamics and needs.

  • Work with local environmental clubs and youth groups on field outings and environmental education programs.

  • Assist team in providing practical assistance for fire prevention, firefighting, and other practical activities in the Maya Forest Corridor, based on established procedures.

  • Ensure timely submission of reports and data sheets to the appropriate person.

  • Act as an ambassador for their country and the organization they work for. Take pride in the work and put your best foot forward when you report for duty.

  • Ensure they have all necessary equipment for each shift. Rangers must coordinate with their supervisor to prepare the necessary equipment needed for an activity prior to the start of that activity.

  • Maintain a high level of situational awareness to identify and mitigate risks that may impact themselves, their guests, or their coworkers.

  • Communicate efficiently, openly, and honestly with their guests, fellow guides, and service providers to ensure everyone has the same information.

  • Be responsible for maintaining the various pieces of equipment assigned to them (ex: radios, SMART devices, flashlights, first aid kits, etc.).

  • Be well informed about all aspects of the activities that they lead. Use this information to brief coworkers and guests before an activity so expectations can be established. Afterwards, gather guests and coworkers to do an activity debrief. This is an important step to highlight the successes and failures of the activity. Ask for recommendations from guests and coworkers on how to improve the experience for everyone.

  • Complete incident reports to report accidents, injuries, near misses, medical situations, or occurrences of misconduct.

  • All Staff must adhere to the Safety Protocols and the Policy & Procedures Manual of Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.

  • No smoking or drinking alcohol while on duty. MBWS Staff are NOT accepted to enter or continue work when not fully sober and may be subject to legal or disciplinary action.

  • Any other tasks as requested by the supervisor.

Appearance and Dress Code

  • Conservation Rangers must maintain a professional appearance while conducting their duties.

  • Designated uniform attire (provided by MBWS) must be worn while on duty.

Benefits

  • When assigned to work with a group on or off site, Rangers will be provided meals or a meal stipend.

  • Receive an equal portion of tips left for staff members.

  • Staff housing is available while on duty.

  • Training and capacity building opportunities.

  • Yearly performance reviews and performance-based pay increments are available.

Recommended Application Documents:

A. Cover Letter
B. CV indicating relevant experience and copy of respective documents
C. Contact details for 3 professional references

The subject of the email should read:
Application for MBWS Conservation Ranger - *YOUR NAME*

The above email should be addressed to:
Mr. Eli Miller
Managing Director
Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Email for submission: hrmmonkeybay@gmail.com
Deadline: September 23rd, 2022, no later than 4:00pm.

 
 
 

ASSISTANT PROGRAM MANAGER

JOB DESCRIPTION

Reports to: Senior Program Manager

Salary/ Wages: Based from experience

Work Schedule: During our slow season or when we do not have groups, 7am-4pm or 8am-5pm. During our high season, dependent upon needs of Master Program Calendar.

Programming Department Mission Statement

The Programming Department's mission is to develop and execute Belize Study Abroad programs with the highest quality experiential learning components to academic institutions from all continents and to immerse program participants in world class natural history training opportunities, authentic cultural experiences and meaningful community engagement with benefits for all involved.

Assistant Program Manager Position Overview

The Assistant Program Manager communicates and coordinates with customers, students, staff, service providers as well as local experts and community members. This is an office-based job with occasional opportunity to coordinate and participate in day trips and service projects, as well as overnight excursions.

Assistant Program Manager Responsibilities

The Assistant Program Manager's primary responsibilities center on development of study abroad academic and service-learning programs, customer relations, reservations and sales are central to program development. These include all components of selling and booking Belize Study Abroad programs to middleman vendors, teachers, administrators and students.

Responsibilities include:

  1. Welcome and orient new groups on arrival to campus

  2. Receive email queries sourced from company website and take suitable action

  3. Communicate persistently with client to design program itinerary and budget

  4. Develop custom program itineraries, connecting with local experts and leaders

  5. Follow up communications with all clients, vendors, service providers regularly

    1. Negotiate best pricing from local vendors and providers that serve Monkey Bay clients 

  6. Maintain Master Calendar of group itineraries and update regularly all staff

  7. Invoice clients and track payments by maintaining up-to-date account records

  8. Create and distribute trip info packets to facilitator guides and support staff  

  9. The "go to" person for client and staff questions, concerns and troubleshooting related to programming  

  10. Serve as front office back-up for guest reception and services representative, when requested.

  11. Monitor integration across company departments and provide leadership in orchestrating teamwork among all program support staff and in implementing company policies and procedures

  12. Support other members of the Programming Department in working with clients, group leaders and local community representatives to develop and design meaningful community service projects.

  13. Delegate tasks to administrative staff as is appropriate for continued staff training 

  14. Track client billing, payment, refunds and due dates and communicate financial information to the Accounting Manager, and Senior Program Manager.

  15. Participate in the development and implementation of an "EEP" for guests & team 

  16. Produce and distribute a Programming Department "Daily Updates" document

Qualifications & Qualities of the Assistant Program Manager

  • Education — Degree, training and/or work experience in Business, Education, Outdoor Leadership, Program Management, and/or Travel and Tourism 

  • Specialized knowledge — Study Abroad Programming and Hosting, Outdoor Recreation, Program Planning, Reservations and Travel Logistics. 

  • Sales Skills — organizational skills to develop and maintain multiple client folders with many moving parts. Electronic files, spreadsheets, calendars, email, etc. 

  • Microsoft Office Suite proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook

  • Abilities — multi-task management, office and field work capacities, community development, continuing life-learner, bilingual, safety and security orientation, first aid and emergency response, written and oral communications, networking, valid driver's license, cultural awareness/sensitivity; existing knowledge of Belize natural history, culture, education system, and conservation programs.

  • Experience — education, administration and management, team leadership, travel and tourism or related discipline

The Assistant Program Manager's Qualities and Skills also include but are not limited to:

  • Leadership and Management skills are required in order to best utilize and develop the skills and qualities of members of their department as well as members of other departments. The Assistant Program Manager demonstrates the ability and willingness to lead and manage team members on separate and/or simultaneous assignments.

  • Professionalism – Always demonstrate the highest standards of performance and behavior, setting a good example and inspiring the other members of the Monkey Bay Team with whom they work or serve, especially in the case of our guests.

  • Timeliness - begin work at the time agreed or required as dictated by the Program Manager. 

  • Honesty, integrity, punctuality and respect are key values of all managers as role models within the organization.

  • Service Skills - recognize the importance of developing strong service relationships with our past, present and future clients.

  • Communication Skills - streamline and regulate the functions of their department both internally and externally and to collaborate with other departments. The chain of command is adhered to as closely as possible during all company communications and is outlined in the company organogram. The Assistant Program Manager will keep abreast of all company-wide communication in which they have been included. The Assistant Program Manager is also responsible for communication and recordkeeping with vendors, contractors, and service providers.

Communication Skills include:

  1. Written Communication including but not limited to email communications as well as the sharing of information or data in spreadsheet format both digitally and tangibly. The effective use of various software programs will be required. 

  2. Verbal Communication both in person and over the telephone or radio systems requires the ability to express one's ideas clearly. There may be verbal communications which will require a follow up written communication to ensure that all parties are informed of important and relevant information.

  3. Communication Technology - must have a technical understanding and practical capacity to use radio communication technology along with communication protocol 

  4. Scheduling of Program Itinerary Excursions requires coordination between the Tour Operations Manager and the Programming Department and requires cross checking of the Master Calendar and the Tour Operations Calendar to ensure all guests and clients are provided timely and excellent service.

  5. Scheduling of Program Itinerary – Accommodations & meals requires coordination between the Kitchen Manager, Housekeeping Supervisor and the Programming Department. It also requires cross checking of the Master Calendar, the Kitchen, and Rooming Calendar to ensure all guests and clients are provided timely and excellent service.

  6. Problem Solving - Take advanced initiative to identify problems and find solutions to challenges they or their team may face. In the case of a problem that needs to be solved immediately, and use their best judgement and understanding to make decisions based on the most positive outcome for our clients and team members with the assistance of the Senior Program Manager.

  7. Understanding, Establishing & Developing Department Standards in accordance to the standards requested and required both internal to the organization (company policies, procedures, systems, etc) as well as to those requested and required externally by various regulatory organizations under which Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Belize Study Abroad have submitted themselves (BTB, The Forum on Education Abroad, etc).

  8. Organization and Protection of Company Assets – The selected candidate will be responsible for the organization and safekeeping of company hard and soft assets which are in storage or under regular and periodic usage by any or all members of their department or any other person to whom the item(s) may have been lent to with permission. These include but are not limited to: computers, office equipment, office furniture and building keys. The company policy covers further accidental damage, theft or loss.

Planning and Department Development

The Assistant Program Manager is encouraged to contribute their insights and ideas into the future development and planning of Monkey Bay, especially as it pertains to their department. Ideas can be shared in writing, in person or at company meetings.

Budgets, Cost Quotes and Invoices

The Assistant Program Manager is responsible for developing budgets estimates for all study abroad programs with the assistance and supervision of the Senior Program Manager and Accounting Manager. Once the budgets have been approved, the Assistant Program Manager is responsible for adhering as closely as possible to the original estimate of the budget. Any major deviations from the budget must be discussed with the Senior Program Manager.

Safety

The Program Manager communicates closely with the Tour Operations manager to support the safety of all guests on excursion.

Emergency Preparation Protocol (EEP)

Assist the Tour Operations Manager and the Facility & Grounds Manager in the creating, maintaining, communicating and implementing an Emergency Preparation Protocol for their department, our guests and the organization. This protocol should include considerations first and foremost for the safety of our team and our guests. This EPP should be part of a larger plan to be developed by all departments which will cover the safety of team members, guests and the general public in the event of a natural disaster, weather event, accident or act of violence. If an EPP is being executed, the Academic Program Manager may be asked to lead and assist efforts within reasonable consideration to his or her personal safety.

 
 
 

Administration Assistant

JOB DESCRIPTION

Status: Full Time - Hourly

Salary: Rate negotiable based on experience and qualification

Work Schedule: 40 hours per week

Department: Administration

Reports to: Administrative Office Manager

 

Administrative Assistant Mission

My mission is to provide the best standard of service to customers and fellow staff members by welcoming all guests, sharing our knowledge of Monkey Bay - Belize Study Abroad in a very organized and professional manner, serving travelers and study abroad groups with friendliness and dedication.


Administrative Assistant Overview The Administration Assistant provides customer service to our guests and assists the General Manager as well as managers of other departments with specific and general administrative tasks. They will also be responsible for tracking the gift shop and office inventories and will work hand-in-hand with the Housekeeping Manager as needed. .

 

 Qualifications & Qualities

  • Associate Degree preferred

  • High School Diploma (required), Vocational Training Certificate or Undergraduate College Degree

  • Fluent in the English language, both verbal and written. Fluency in Spanish or other languages is an advantage. 

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills including the ability to communicate online and in person.

  •  Ability and willingness to work with people from diverse backgrounds without prejudice. 

  • Computer literacy including creating and editing documents, spreadsheets, schedules and calendars.  This includes familiarity with advanced functions of Microsoft Suite and Google Workspace. 

  • Ability to organize and prioritize work tasks, project assignments, documents, electronic files, etc. Highly organized individual capable of managing multiple tasks effectively and efficiently.

  • Ability to carry out duties and directives under limited supervision as a team player.

  • Flexibility, creativity, and adaptability to changing work environment with confidence and professionalism

  • Accounting experience including financial tracking and reporting skills are an advantage.  

  • Maintains quality service and Performance Management

  • Willing to train in order to achieve greater performance within the organization


 Responsibilities Include but are not limited to:

  • Managing the Front Desk operations. Greeting, orienting and assisting all guests.  Guest check in and check out functions, managing the BTB guest register and inputting forms in BTB portal, providing guest orientations, and communication with other service departments. 

  • Responsible for ensuring that rooms are visited before and after guests stay to turn on or off lights, fans, hot water heater, and air conditioning. 

  • Preparing guest invoices and providing receipts for services and products

  • Assists with the development of itineraries, invoices, and cost quotes for overnight guests

  • Responding to guest inquiries via telephone, email and in person

  • Creating reservations within the web-based RoomMaster platform

  • Booking food and tour services with other providers on behalf of guests

  • Communication with necessary internal departments to ensure guest services are provided efficiently and with excellence.

  • Assisting with filing and data entry as needed

  • Help maintain a continuous office presence at the Front Desk, coordinate with other staff members to cover your absence during lunch breaks, etc

  • Typing, scanning and printing various documents for other staff as needed or requested

  • Manage gift shop sales, monthly inventory reports, and coordinating the ordering of new items with the  General Manager

  • Organize and take inventory of first aid supplies for the Tour Operations Department

  • Management of front desk cash register

  • The Administrative Assistant assists the Accounts Manager upon request by cross checking internal budgets prior to scheduling payments

  • Assists with campus orientations for student groups as well as overnight and walk in guests

  • Provides assistance to local and foreign teachers and group leaders as directed and needed.

  • The Administrative Assistant delegates their important tasks to other members of the team on their days off, leaving clear instructions.


Expectations of roles, performance and behavior:

 

Timeliness

The Administrative Assistant should report to work at the time assigned. Late arrivals or unannounced absence will be handled in accordance with company policies.  


Organization and Protection of Company Assets

The Administrative Assistant is responsible for the organization and safekeeping of company assets which are in storage or under their regular and periodic use.  These include but are not limited to: documentation, computers, printers, scanners, office materials, office furniture, literature.  All necessary steps must be taken to preserve the value, integrity and functionality of these assets including the use of inventory systems, damage reporting, repair, replacement requests, sale and purchasing.  The company policy covers further accidental damage, theft or loss.

 

Communication

The Administrative Assistant is required to maintain and initiate regular and clear contact with the other members of their team via emails, phone calls and in person meetings.  The  Administrative Assistant provides verbal daily progress reports to the Administrative Office Manager and other Managers with whom they work closely.   The Administrative Assistant must keep abreast of all company-wide communication in which they have been included.  The Administrative Assistant is responsible for updating their team with relevant information from these correspondences.  


The Administrative Assistant is also responsible for communication with clients, vendors, and service providers in a timely manner. 

  

Security of Office

The Administrative Assistant is responsible for following the security procedures of locking up the front desk office as well as maintaining the security of front desk office resources under lock and key. This includes key storage, cash register. It also includes assistance with the supervision and usage of sign out/ sign in logbook.  

 
 
 

FRONT DESK RECEPTIONIST

JOB DESCRIPTION


Reports to: Administrative Office Manager 
Salary/Wages:
Hourly
Work Schedule: 7 am – 4 pm; alternatively 8 am – 5 pm; Weekends and Holidays 

Front Desk Mission Statement:
To provide optimal service in welcoming all guests, and sharing helpful and pertinent knowledge about Monkey Bay Study Abroad in a very organized and professional manner, serving travelers and study abroad groups with friendliness and dedication.

Front Desk Overview:
The Front Desk personnel manages Front Desk operations and provides customer service to our guests.  Also, assists the General Manager, as well as other Department Managers with specific and general administrative tasks. The Front Desk personnel manages the gift shop and assists the Housekeeping Manager as needed. The Front Desk Receptionist reports to the Administration Office Manager.  

Responsibilities

  1. Greeting, orienting and assisting all Guests. 

  2. Guest check-in and check-out functions

  3. Managing the BTB guest register

  4. Assigning rooms and keys to guests.

  5. Preparing Guest invoices, charging and providing receipts for services and products

  6. Preparing rooms for guests: room refreshing, airing rooms, turning on water heaters, A/C, mats 

  7. Communication with necessary internal Departments (Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Tour Operations, Accounts, Grounds & Facilities) to ensure Guest Services are provided efficiently and with excellence.

  8. Responding to guest inquiries via telephone, email and in person.

  9. Developing itineraries, invoices and cost quotes for overnight guests.

  10. Creating reservations in the online Rooming Calendar and Program Calendar.

  11. Managing Gift Shop inventory, including ordering new items with the approval of the Administrative Office Manager.

  12. Managing Front Desk Sales and Cash Register. Managing Key Inventory and key sign-out and sign-in log. 

  13. Managing office supplies, sign-in and sign-out log, inventory, purchase orders, and storage.

  14. Assist with handing over Monkey Bay Staff T-Shirts to staff as directed  by the Admin Office Manager. 

  15. Helping to maintain a continuous office presence at the Front Desk; and coordinating with other staff members to cover absences during lunch breaks, et cetera.

  16. Assisting with filing and data entry, as needed.

  17. Typing, scanning, and printing of various documents for other staff as needed or requested

  18. .Managing and maintaining up-to-date company client and vendor list with full contact info and evaluation and performance notes.

  19. Communicating with vendors and service providers, as necessary.

  20. Assisting with Campus orientation for student groups as well as overnight and walk-in guests.

  21. Assisting the Programming Department with keys and room preparation.

  22. Providing assistance to local and foreign teachers and group leaders as directed and needed.

  23. Delegating important tasks to other members of the team on off days, leaving clear instructions. 

  24. Assisting with preparing conference or meeting rooms for management meetings or group professors lectures or trainings.

  25. Printing, organizing, and distributing important company forms to staff.

  26. Assist the Accounts Department with the Annual Stock Inventory.

  27. Other duties as assigned, including, but not limited to:

    • Responding to inquiries regarding bus charters as well as equipment and location rentals.

    • Developing quotes for bus charters as well as equipment and location rentals (for example canoes or conferences at Monkey Bay).

    • Informing the Tour Operations Manager of upcoming bus charters so that drivers and conductors can be assigned.

    • Handling the billing for bus charters with the assistance of the Accounts Manager.

    • Locking up the office according to set security procedures as well as maintaining office resources under lock and key. This includes key storage, cash drawers, locking cabinets containing equipment and electronics. It also includes assisting in monitoring the police sign-out sign-in logbook.

 
 

INTERNSHIPS

 

A NEW WAY TO LEARN:

Monkey Bay's primary objective is to educate and train students and interns through experiential learning and field research support. Therefore, we offer opportunities for students to link into our programs, facilities, conservation partners and contacts.

Whether you require a research project for a thesis, or would like to gain experience through hands-on training and work, Monkey Bay is a good place to experiment and explore.

Our facilities provide all the basics you need: an interactive learning environment, comfortable and secure place to sleep, three meals a day, an extensive library with wireless internet access, and a support network of knowledgeable staff and contacts.

Why choose this Wildlife Conservation Internship program in Belize?

Gain field experience conducting scientific research while working with a Non-Governmental Organization focused on conservation and environmental education in Belize.

Benefit from a well-rounded wildlife conservation program and gain experience worthy of adding to your CV / Resume to help you stand out from the crowd.

Advance your ability to identify resident and migratory wildlife while fine-tuning your field survey skills with the guidance of a master birder.

Share your internship experience and the results of the fieldwork conducted with visiting Belizean and international students.

Explore other Protected Areas and Wildlife Corridors during your volunteer internship program.

A Typical Weekly Intern Activity Schedule

Interns work during the weekdays and have the option of recreational travel, daily chores, and resting on the weekends.

The work schedule commences Monday morning and runs through Friday afternoon, when fieldwork contributions to one or preferably more of the ongoing monitoring projects are active. This is when field guides and internship trainers are available to demonstrate and advise interns individually and as a team.

The workday usually begins early, and breakfast may be prepared as a sack meal to carry with you to have in the field. Bird abundance and diversity surveys are best accomplished during morning hours and on a consistent schedule.

A mid-morning break allows time back to complete field notes, and review and organize the observation data collected. WiFi service is accessible back at camp for communications and searches.

Interns usually eat their lunch at noon.

Afternoon work tasks and hours are flexible, with opportunities for wildlife trail camera and Yellow-headed parrot project tasks. Additional options include conducting online research, developing social media posts, and assisting local staff with ongoing tasks on campus and within the sanctuary (i.e.,

landscaping, gardening, trail maintenance, ranger patrols, fire management test plot monitoring, composting and biochar production, sign painting, etc.).

Dinner is pre-prepared and available in the evening between 5:30 and 6:30 pm.

Lights are out at 9:00 pm for 8 hours of bed rest before waking up at sunrise and resuming fieldwork.

 

Current Projects

two yellow-headed parrots perched on top of a tree

Yellow Headed Parrot Nest Site Augmentation Using Nest Boxes

Due to the critically endangered status of the endemic Yellow Headed Parrot (Amazona oratrix belizensis), we have begun augmenting potential nesting sites on the property with artificial nest boxes with the hope of increasing survivorship and productivity of this species.

a tapir in profile walks across a savanna at night

Wildlife Monitoring Using Camera Trap

Use camera trap stations to record wildlife sightings on the property. This data is cataloged and shared with our partners in education from various Universities and Conservation NGOs.

a group of children holding clipboards with papers displaying activity sheets

Building Community Environmental Stewardship in the Maya Forest Corridor through Avian Ecology

Facilitating environmental education and awareness activities for school children from the surrounding communities. Establish a Youth Environmental Club in the coming months. This project is funded by Global Environment Facility and hosted by the University of Belize with support from Maya Forest Corridor Coalition partners such as Monkey Bay.

a tree aflamed with smoke rising as a person on the right moves around it

WildFire Management

Learn how to design a fire management plan, how to plan a prescribed burn, and how to conduct a prescribed burn using a variety of tools and techniques.

PAST PROJECTS

  • Painting and posting of signs of various garden species throughout our campus.

  • GPS mapping of our sanctuary.

  • Fruit tree planting in local village.

  • Summer camp programs

  • Nature Explorer’s International – Environmental Education Program for local children.

  • Photography, Photo Editing and Marketing research.

  • Local Community Outreach Grant writing opportunity with St. Matthew’s School.

  • Research, painting and posting of educational signs for our campus and trail system

  • Rainy season maintenance and construction work.


Service Projects & Homestays

LEARN THROUGH EXPERIENCE

Monkey Bay works in partnership with several local communities to facilitate village family homestay programs and community service projects. Belizean host families provide lodging, meals,and authentic hospitality care. Students gain the experience of working on a meaningful service project in a rural community, as well as participation in the daily activities of their host family’s life and culture. Service projects are planned and supervised in partnership with community leaders. Through this service opportunity, important ‘giving back’ contributions are made, cross-cultural relationships established, and an enormous sense of accomplishment and self-esteem achieved.

A community service budget is determined by the scope and duration of the project. Project funds may be raised by the visiting group prior to arrival, or added to the program budget. Inquire with our Programming Department to learn more about potential Service Learning Projects.

+ SERVICE PROJECTS

  • St. Matthew's Government School - St. Matthew's Village

  • Frank's Eddy Government School - Frank's Eddy Village

  • St. Agnes Anglican School - Mahogany Heights Village

  • St. Joseph R.C. School - Cotton Tree Village

What skills do I need to be aN Intern?

An interest in wildlife and observation fieldwork is of course a must! Experience with and/or willingness to learn bird watching, camera trapping, principles of conservation management, environmental studies or a related field is preferred but not required.

To participate, you must be comfortable working in the field for several hours at a time in tropical heat, rain, and often buggy conditions. This internship is meant for anyone seeking to work or study within a science or environmental field, or those who are passionate about conservation action. An interview is required for acceptance into the internship.

Enthusiasm, flexibility, and the ability to work with a team will be paramount to your acceptance into the program.

Interested? Next Steps.

Typical internships costs an average of $111 USD a day. Monkey Bay is also open to hosting independent and semi-independent researchers. Costs vary according to the needs of the researcher.

For summer 2023, we have limited availability between June 18-July 31.

Contact us via email to learn more.

VOLUNTEER

 
 

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