Raa Atoll Project Manager

MALDIVES MANTA CONSERVATION PROGRAMME

Raa Atoll Project Manager

Maldives Manta Conservation Programme

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 the delivery of 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 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

When applying please make sure to upload a:

• CV (max. 2 pages)
• Cover letter (max. 1 page)

PLEASE ENSURE YOUR CV AND COVER LETTER ARE SAVED ON THE SAME DOCUMENT 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and a suitable candidate may be selected prior to the deadline. 

If you have any further questions or problems with your application, please email Tam Sawers: [email protected]