Trip Assistant - Chiang Mai

Contract dates:

• Program 1 (hybrid online/ in-person)
  • Training (online): ~15 hours between May 4-15, 2026
  • Administrative help (online): Assistance booking restaurant reservations & dinner deliveries, confirming reservations as needed, assistance ordering supplies (~10 hours)
  • Virtual Introduction to group (online): June 7, 2026 (1 hour)
  • Travel (in-person): Chiang Mai: June 8-12, 2026
• Program 2 (in-person)
  • Debrief and planning session (in person): June 15
  • Travel (in-person): June 16-24, 2026
  • Debrief (online): TBD after program

WHO WE ARE

Global Public Service Academy (GPSA) for Health is an educational organization that works in collaboration with local health authorities in West Virginia, USA, Belize, Guatemala, and Thailand. GPSA was founded with an understanding that young adults can make a difference in the world.

GPSA has two main goals: to collaborate with local clinics and community health workers to determine the health resources and needs of each area; and to provide young adults with a hands-on experience that addresses those needs. To achieve those goals, GPSA offers short-term (1-4 weeks) travel volunteering programs and a 16-hour virtual Leadership in Global Health eCourse for high school students. Our eCourse and Travel programs are designed in collaboration with local health authorities. All GPSA staff and volunteers receive healthcare training, work alongside local health workers, and support the health system of underserved areas in a cross-cultural engagement.

THE POSITION

We are looking for an energetic and dedicated individual to coordinate and provide support on our Travel Programs and support our health partners in Chiang Mai and surrounding areas. The Trip Assistant is expected to 1) assist with the coordination of travel program activities, including logistics such as restaurants, transportation, and vendor coordination, 2) support the supervision and engagement of the high school participants who attend the travel programs, 3) assist in the preparation and facilitation of academic technical sessions and reflections during the travel program and 4) support community-based health initiatives through education, observation, and engagement activities. The position offers a unique opportunity for an adaptable and collaborative individual to support community-based health initiatives in underserved rural areas while building skills for future program leadership roles.

The Trip Assistant will be based in Thailand, with local rights to work, and may travel within the country as needed. Onboarding will be conducted online and locally, with support provided for orientation and logistics.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, the responsibilities of the Trip Assistant will include:

On-Site Program: General Activities

• Assisting with day-to-day program logistics, including coordinating restaurant reservations, food deliveries, transportation, and activity schedules.
• Communicating with local vendors (hotels, drivers, restaurants) to confirm bookings and resolve logistical needs.
• Providing translation support as needed between local partners and program staff.
• Ensuring that all participants and team members adhere to the GPSA policies.
• Handling disciplinary issues, conflicts, and emergencies in an appropriate and timely manner following GPSA policies.
• Assuming a leadership and mentor role with participants.
• Attending daily staff meetings.
• Supporting a positive and inclusive group environment by reinforcing daily plans, schedules, and expectations to participants.

On-Site Program: Clinical Activities

• Adhering to the GPSA activity protocols and GPSA clinical activity protocol.
• Facilitating participant learning through appropriate supervision.

Post-Program Evaluation

• Participate in a debriefing session with the Project Manager after both programs.

General

• Participating in training workshops.
• Exchanging and collaborating pro-actively with GPSA and health center team members on a regular basis.
• Providing continuous input into the development and quality improvement of GPSA programs.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (completed or in progress) in a relevant field such as tourism, hospitality, health sciences, education, or a related discipline.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Familiarity with Thai cultural contexts are essential.
• Fluency in English and Thai required (Karen language a plus).
• Experience working with high school students is preferred.
• Experience living and/or working in rural communities is preferred.
• Experience working/volunteering in a clinical setting is preferred.
• Tour guide certification is strongly desired.

Essential Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and reporting skills to effectively communicate/exchange information, discuss issues, gain support, and liaise with stakeholders and the team.
• Must be flexible.

CONDITIONS:

• Salary: 2,000–3,000 THB per day depending on experience and qualifications.
• Paid holiday: none
• All traveling and meal expenses are covered while in Thailand.
• The contract does not include labor benefits or any other benefits.
• Any costs related to obtaining Visas are not covered.

None

Fluency in English and Thai required (Karen language a plus).