Small Animals Coordinator at Ambue Ari Sanctuary – Work with Rescued Wildlife in the Bolivian Rainforest

WORK WITH RESCUED WILDLIFE IN THE BOLIVIAN RAINFOREST!

We are looking for an Animal Care Area Coordinator to join our team at Ambue Ari Sanctuary as soon as possible.

Introduction

Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi (CIWY) is a Bolivian NGO founded in 1992 and a pioneer of the environmental movement in Bolivia. Our organization is made up of a diverse team of Bolivian and international professionals and volunteers. CIWY is nationally and internationally recognized for establishing and managing wildlife sanctuaries dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of wild animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade.

CIWY currently manages two sanctuaries: Ambue Ari in Santa Cruz and Jacj Cuisi in Rurrenabaque, northern La Paz. Both provide refuge and care for rescued wildlife, offering animals a safe environment and a better quality of life.

Position Summary

The Small Animals Area at Ambue Ari Sanctuary is home to a variety of species, including birds (macaws, Amazona parrots, etc.), coatis, peccaries and night monkeys.

The work involves feeding the animals, cleaning and maintaining enclosures, providing environmental enrichment, carrying out daily observations of the animals, and training and supervising volunteers working in the area.

The Area Coordinator will also be responsible for accompanying, guiding and supervising volunteers assigned to the area, ensuring that they understand and correctly follow the established animal care protocols.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for the Small Animals Area and the welfare of the animals under your care.
• Train new volunteers in animal care and handling protocols and introduce them to the work with the animals.
• Implement measures to ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and volunteers.
• Work in coordination with the biologist to update animal records and with the administrator to keep information organized and up to date.
• Record relevant observations, illnesses, treatments and behavioral changes.
• Organize and adapt the daily routine according to the conditions and needs of the day.
• Ensure the well-being of volunteers and provide support when they encounter difficulties.
• Organize the area's activity schedule, including deep cleaning, treatments and planning of days off.
• Understand and properly manage the animals' diets according to their nutritional needs and food availability.
• Administer medication and treatments when necessary, maintaining constant communication with the veterinary team.
• Supervise the general maintenance and condition of the area.
• Ensure that volunteers follow internal rules and report any violations.
• Ensure the appropriate use, responsible handling and return of Centre tools and equipment.
• Ensure that only authorized personnel enter the area.
• Participate in meetings called by the administration or management and maintain clear and effective communication with the wider team.
• Know and apply emergency protocols in the event of accidents, animal escapes or other critical situations.

Living Conditions at Ambue Ari

Ambue Ari Sanctuary is located in a remote rainforest environment, so living conditions are simple and centered around community life and working in the field. The Sanctuary provides shared accommodation, composting dry toilets and cold-water showers, as well as communal spaces such as a dining area and a common room.

Electricity is limited, and mobile phone reception is restricted, available only in certain areas and exclusively through the Entel network. Wi-Fi is available in the office for an additional fee.

Mattresses are made with natural straw, in keeping with the Sanctuary's rustic and sustainable approach.

You will live alongside Bolivian and international staff and volunteers who are committed to the daily work of wildlife conservation. The position requires a patient, flexible attitude and a willingness to carry out physically demanding work in challenging environmental conditions.

Working Hours

The working day includes enclosure cleaning, feeding, area maintenance, volunteer coordination and support with other activities necessary to ensure the smooth running of the Centre and a positive community environment.

The working day generally starts at approximately 7:00 a.m. and finishes around 5:30 p.m., including one hour for breakfast and two hours for lunch.

You will have one day off per week and one week of vacation for every six months worked.

Financial Agreement

CIWY does not receive government funding; our income comes exclusively from volunteer contributions and donations.

The stipend for this position is Bs. 1,400 (approximately USD 200) per month.

CIWY provides accommodation and three meals per day throughout your stay. Personal expenses, including visa procedures (for international applicants or those without Bolivian residency) and transportation to the Sanctuary, are the responsibility of the applicant.

CIWY will provide support with the necessary paperwork for visa procedures, but does not cover these costs.

Required Experience and Skills

Candidates should have a strong interest in animals, their behavior and their welfare. Previous experience working with animals or wildlife is an advantage.

Candidates must have at least an intermediate level of English or Spanish, both spoken and written, as well as the willingness and availability to continue learning and developing their language skills.

We are looking for someone responsible, patient, organized and adaptable, with the ability to work independently while also being part of a diverse team. A strong commitment to animal welfare and CIWY's principles is essential.

Spanish and English