Field Leaders are a special category of volunteers in ARCHELON projects: they are experienced and skilled individuals that are selected to lead the different activities of each sea turtle conservation project.

ARCHELON’s sea turtle field projects in Greece are organised every summer with the valuable contribution of volunteers. They involve monitoring and protecting the reproduction of loggerhead sea turtles and raising public awareness about their nesting beaches. Participation to all 8 projects is open and inclusive and volunteers from all over the world can join them. Field Leaders undertake tasks and responsibilities related to project activities and ensure the high quality of work done by the other volunteers.

Why should I join or return as a Leader?

You will be part of an international team with the mission to record and protect loggerhead turtle nests and hatchlings. You will be responsible for the implementation of a specific objective in the project working alongside other volunteers. The Field Leader positions provide a higher level of experience and responsibility in conservation/ environment projects, and help you achieve improved communication and leadership skills. You will receive the necessary guidance and training, which are based on the continuously evolving practices of projects running for 40+ years.

Field Leaders do not receive a salary but they are provided with non-fee training, camping accommodation, basic food expenses, as well as insurance against accidents. Candidates with previous experience as field leaders in ARCHELON’s or other relevant projects will be eligible for additional benefits. Returning to the projects as a Field Leader is a great opportunity to lead specific activities as well as train and help others.

What are the specific tasks of Field Leaders?

Field Leaders are responsible for leading the teams and ensuring the proper on-site implementation of

• sea turtle monitoring actions (Monitoring Field Leaders)
• public awareness and fund raising actions (Public Awareness Field Leaders) and
• the good state of ARCHELON Research Stations (Camp and Volunteer Leaders)

Together they formulate the weekly schedule of shifts, train volunteers and boost their motivation. They manage occurring issues in cooperation with the Project Managers.

Each project recruits a different number of Field Leaders and assigns responsibilities depending on the expected work load in different activities, which are specific to the area.

You can find out more details on what a Monitoring Field Leader , a Public Awareness Field Leader and a Camp and Volunteers Field Leader do in the projects and whether these match your experience and interest.

How can I become a Field Leader?

To be eligible for a Field Leader post, you need to be over 20 years old, with a car driving license (EU or international), be fluent in English and ready to spend from 3 – 6 months on the site. Having previously participated in ARCHELON’s projects is a serious advantage.

If interested, you need to send an email to jobs@archelon.gr with:

• The Application form
• A Short Curriculum Vitae (400-900 words)

Applications and short CVs for 2024 are now open! Early applications have a higher chance to be successful as vacancies are limited.

Initial deadline for applications is 11 February 2024. However, applications will continue to be reviewed past this deadline until all positions are filled. Short interviews will begin on February 1st and will continue until all field leading teams are complete.

More information on Field leaders here Find out who were the Field Leaders in 2023 here