CAREERS & VOLUNTEERING

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The Maldives Manta Conservation Programme (MMCP) is offering a highly sought-after internship opportunity to join our manta ray research base in Raa Atoll.

Working alongside our Raa Atoll research team, this role sits at the intersection of marine science, conservation, education, and high-end tourism. Interns will contribute directly to the long-term monitoring and protection of one of the world’s largest known populations of reef manta rays (Mobula alfredi), while also supporting meaningful guest and community engagement.

Although this period represents a quieter season for manta ray aggregations, it provides a unique and valuable training environment, with greater emphasis on developing core research skills, education delivery, and operational understanding of a conservation programme.

You will gain exposure to the full scope of MMCP’s work, from in-water data collection and species identification to education programmes, outreach, and research support, making this an ideal stepping stone for those pursuing a career in marine science or conservation.

Role Overview

This is a hands-on, immersive internship requiring flexibility, enthusiasm, and a willingness to contribute across both field and operational activities.

Interns will divide their time between:

• Fieldwork: snorkelling/diving surveys, manta site exploration, and environmental data collection

• Research support: photo-ID processing, database management, and analytical tasks

• Guest engagement: supporting and occasionally leading educational sessions and marine experiences

• Education & outreach: contributing to local school programmes, community engagement, and awareness campaigns

What You Will Gain

• Practical, field-based experience in manta ray research methodologies

• Training in photo-identification and long-term population monitoring

• Experience working within a professional conservation and research programme

• Exposure to marine ecotourism and high-end guest engagement

• Opportunities to develop public speaking, education, and outreach skills

• Mentorship from experienced marine scientists and conservation practitioners

• Insight into operating within resort environments

Essential Requirements

• Demonstrable experience or strong interest in marine conservation or related field

• Minimum PADI Rescue diver (or equivalent certification level) in active status

• Confident in-water ability, including strong snorkelling skills and the ability to freedive to ~10–15m

• Fluent in spoken and written English & Dhivehi

• Strong communication skills, including confidence in public speaking and guest interaction

• Competent in basic computer skills and comfortable undertaking desk-based work (data entry, analysis)

• Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work effectively within a small, remote team

Eligibility & Local Capacity Building

MMCP is committed to strengthening local capacity and supporting Maldivian participation in marine conservation.

Suitably qualified Maldivian applicants are strongly encouraged to apply, and relevant field experience will be considered alongside formal qualifications.

Please Note:
Due to current staff accommodation configurations at the resort, we are presently only able to accommodate female interns for this placement.

Inclusions & Conditions

• Accommodation and meals provided

• Internal transfers within the Maldives covered

• Scientific training and mentorship throughout the placement

• Freediving theory training provided

Note for Maldivian Nationals: Stipend of USD $500/month

Please note:

Interns must hold valid insurance (travel, health, and liability)

How to Apply

Please submit:

• CV (maximum 2 pages)

• Cover letter (maximum 1 page)

To: tam@mantatrust.org
Subject: Internship Application #MMCPRaaIntern2026 [Your Name]

This is a highly competitive opportunity, and we encourage applicants to clearly demonstrate their motivation, relevant experience, and interest in manta ray conservation.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and positions may be filled prior to the deadline. Due to capacity constraints, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

To express interest in future internship opportunities in the Maldives, please complete the form below to share your skills and interests — it helps us connect the right people with the right roles as they become available.

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