CAREERS & VOLUNTEERING

MALDIVES MANTA CONSERVATION PROGRAMME

Raa Atoll Project Manager

Ref: #MMCP2026

Deadline = 19th April 2026

The Maldives Manta Conservation Programme (MMCP) is seeking an experienced and dynamic Project Manager to lead our manta ray research base in Raa Atoll.

This is a rare and highly sought-after opportunity to work at the intersection of marine science, conservation, and luxury hospitality. Based within a 5★ resort environment, the role combines rigorous field research with delivering exceptional, guest-facing experiences.

Guest engagement is central to this position. You will design and lead a premium manta ray experience programme, hosting and inspiring international, high-end resort guests from around the world while acting as a key ambassador for MMCP and our resort partner.

This role offers a unique lifestyle opportunity to live and work within a world-class resort environment while contributing to globally significant manta ray research and conservation efforts.

We are looking for a confident and personable marine professional who thrives in a high-performance, guest-focused environment and can balance scientific integrity with outstanding service delivery.

Location: Raa Atoll, Maldives (Resort-based)

Position Type: Self-employed (Consultancy) 

Availability: Minimum May 2026 to May 2027 

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and deliver high-quality, guest-focused manta ray experiences, including snorkelling and diving excursions

• Design and continuously develop a structured programme of guest activities (talks, briefings, and in-water experiences)

• Act as the primary point of contact for guest engagement, maintaining a strong and visible presence within the resort

• Collaborate with resort teams to develop and promote manta-related experiences

• Identify opportunities to enhance both guest experience and conservation impact

• Conduct daily fieldwork, including snorkelling and diving, to collect and analyse manta ray data

• Lead reporting outputs for stakeholders, government, and scientific audiences

• Represent MMCP and The Manta Trust in outreach initiatives, workshops, and events

• Support and provide day-to-day guidance to team members, fostering a professional and collaborative working culture

• Ensure all risk assessments, consent forms, and operational protocols are in place and maintained

What Success Looks Like in This Role:

• Delivery of consistently high-quality, engaging guest experiences

• Strong working relationships with resort teams and stakeholders

• High standards of data collection and meaningful research outputs

• A visible and positive contribution to both conservation impact and guest satisfaction

• Professional, well-organised programme management in a resort environment

Essential Requirements:

• BSc in Marine Biology, Environmental Conservation, or related field (Note: For Maldivian nationals, relevant field experience may be considered in place of a degree)

• Minimum PADI Divemaster (or equivalent) in active status

• AIDA2 (or equivalent) freediving certification (or willingness to obtain)

• High level of physical fitness, with the ability to undertake daily, prolonged in-water work (4+ hours) in variable and sometimes challenging ocean conditions

• Strong interest in manta rays, marine conservation, and research

• Fluent written and spoken English (Dhivehi desirable)

• Proven experience in guest-facing roles, ideally within luxury or high-end tourism

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage a varied workload

• Self-motivated, adaptable, and professional in a resort island environment

• Competent in Microsoft Excel and general computer use

Desirable skills:

• Experience working in the Maldives or remote resort environments

• Background in marine guiding, eco-tourism, or expedition leadership

• Experience delivering structured guest or educational programmes

• Strong fieldwork and marine species identification skills

• Data analysis experience (e.g. R or similar)

• Report writing and scientific communication experience

• Leadership or team management experience

• Drone operation and/or photography skills

Equipment Requirements:

• Personal Laptop (with photo editing software e.g. Lightroom);

• Underwater Camera equipment (e.g. Olympus Tough TG-6 + Housing (GoPro suitable)

• Personal snorkel & dive gear (or willingness to obtain)

Inclusions & Exclusions:

• Monthly consultancy fee: $1000–$1200 (depending on experience)

• Accommodation and meals provided

• Internal work-related travel and one international return flight are included

• Consultants must arrange their own insurance (travel, health, liability, etc.)

• Consultants are responsible for managing their own tax obligations and insurance (including travel, health, and liability)

How to Apply

Register and apply via WiseOceans

OR

Please send:

• CV (max. 2 pages)

• Cover letter (max. 1 page) 

To: tam@mantatrust.org
Subject line: Raa Project Manager Application #MMCP2026 [Your Name]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and a suitable candidate may be selected before the deadline. Due to capacity constraints, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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