Dive Instructor & Marine Conservation Program Assistant

Position Overview

Madagascar Research and Conservation Institute (MRCI) is seeking a qualified PADI Dive Instructor to lead dive training for volunteers and assist in the daily operations of our Marine Conservation Program. This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and conservation-minded instructor to contribute to meaningful reef and marine ecosystem protection efforts while also training and mentoring international volunteers.

Key Responsibilities

Dive Instruction & Safety

• Conduct PADI dive courses (Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue, EFR, and specialty courses as required).

• Provide refreshers and check dives for certified volunteers.

• Supervise and ensure safety during all dives, maintaining strict adherence to PADI and MRCI dive safety protocols.

• Maintain accurate records of certifications, training logs, and dive medicals.

Equipment Management

• Oversee the maintenance and servicing of all dive equipment (regulators, BCDs, tanks, etc.) and ensure readiness for daily operations.

• Conduct regular gear checks and maintain a log of servicing and repairs.

• Ensure the dive shed is kept clean, organised, and secure.

Marine Conservation Program Support

• Assist the Marine Program Manager with daily operations and logistics.

• Participate in underwater ecological surveys, including fish and invertebrate counts, coral health assessments, and artificial reef monitoring.

• Help train volunteers on survey methods, marine species identification, and conservation protocols.

• Assist in data entry and analysis for ongoing research projects.

Volunteer Support

• Provide onboarding dive orientations to new volunteers.

• Offer ongoing guidance and mentorship in diving and conservation practices.

• Ensure volunteers feel engaged, safe, and supported throughout their program.

General Camp Duties

• Assist in daily operations at the Turtle Cove base (e.g., morning briefings, planning sessions, weekly reports).

• Support community activities, beach clean-ups, or educational workshops when required.

• Represent MRCI professionally in all engagements with partners, communities, and visitors.

Requirements

• PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) certification (minimum requirement).

• Active PADI teaching status and liability insurance.

• Proven experience leading and instructing dives, preferably in a remote or volunteer-based environment.

• Strong understanding of coral reef ecology and marine conservation practices (degree in marine biology or related field is a plus).

• First Aid & CPR certified (EFR or equivalent).

• Excellent communication, leadership, and intercultural skills.

• Comfortable living and working in basic, remote, communal environments.

• Flexible, solution-oriented, and able to work independently or as part of a small team.

Desirable

• Experience working with international volunteers or in a conservation NGO setting.

• PADI Specialty Instructor ratings (e.g., Coral Reef Conservation, Fish ID, Dive Against Debris).

Benefits

• On-site accommodation at Turtle Cove (shared).

• Meals provided on camp.

• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful marine conservation efforts in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions.

• Chance to work with a dynamic international team in a unique island environment.