Mexican Marine Conservation and Scuba Diving Trainee Scheme

  Mexico

Rural Areas

Term: Throughout the year 
Dates: Please visit the GVI website for upcoming start dates.

Description: Prepare yourself for a career in the scuba diving and/or marine conservation industry with this in-field training program developed by GVI. This 20 week Traineeships starts with a 10 week expedition where you will develop your understanding of marine conservation and either learn to scuba dive or enhance your current diving skills and qualifications. During this time you will learn how to live and work with a research team in a remote environment and attain the basic skills essential for your traineeship. During the second phase of the program you will undertake your PADI dive master course and other advanced training courses including boat driving, equipment maintenance and advanced marine survey skills. You will also be shadowing GVI staff and assisting with the running of the expedition.

GVI run a number of research bases on the Yucatan Peninsula ranging from remote jungle bases in the heart of the Sian Ka'an (Mayan for 'Where the Sky is Born') Biosphere Reserve at Boca Paila to the tranquil Mayan village of Mahahual just north of the Belize border. Your traineeship will take you to study at two different locations for a well rounded experience.

Throughout your Traineeship you will have expert guidance from GVI staff and will be reviewed regularly to ensure you have the best possible chance of a further career with GVI or a project partner. At the end of the 20 week placement qualifying Trainees will be offered paid or unpaid work with GVI or with one of our local partners.

Training Includes:

* PADI Divemaster course
During the PADI Divemaster program, you will learn dive leadership skills through both classroom and independent study. You will complete water skills and stamina exercises, as well as training exercises that stretch your ability to organize and solve problems. Divemaster certification covers Knowledge Development (12 sections), water skills and Stamina (including an evaluation of the 18 required skills to Demonstration Quality), and Practical Application.

* GVI Boat Handling Course
After completing a recognized boat handling qualification, GVI staff will deliver a boat driving induction workshop, where basic boat handling and safety concepts will be explained and demonstrated. You will have the opportunity to practice your boat driving skills under the supervision of GVI staff.

* GVI Health and Safety workshop
Expert GVI staff will explain in detail all aspects of GVI H&S protocols, including Risk Assessments, EAPs (emergency action plans), relevant legislation and other aspects essential for working in the field, putting together your own expedition or looking after groups when overseas.

Highlights:
* Develop personnel management and leadership skills
* Learn marine conservation and diving skills
* Live and work| on a remote jungle base
* See incredible wildlife
* Live near white-sand beach and turquoise sea
* Learn about the reef and to identify fish and coral
* Participate in monitoring dives
* Explore different sites along the coast
* Chance upon dolphins, sharks and manatees
* Search the beach at night for turtles laying eggs
* Learning some Spanish
* Joining sea and cenote fun-dives
* Enjoy cultural visits to Mayan ruins

Cost in US$: $7990 for 20 weeks

Credit Available: yes

Salary / Pay: Voluntary Internship/Training and work experience, with job placement scheme for qualified candidates.

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Mexico Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: 2008 marks a decade of commitment from GVI to all volunteers and partners. Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998