Small Animals Area Coordinator - Work with rescued wildlife in the jungle

Work with rescued wildlife in the Bolivian rainforest!

We are looking for a Small Animals Area Coordinator to join our Jacj Cuisi 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. It is made up of a diverse team of Bolivian and international professionals and volunteers. CIWY is nationally and internationally recognized for the creation and management of wildlife sanctuaries dedicated to the rehabilitation of animals rescued from illegal trafficking.

Currently, CIWY manages three sanctuaries: Machía (Cochabamba), Ambue Ari (Santa Cruz), and Jacj Cuisi (Rurrenabaque, northern La Paz). Each sanctuary provides refuge and care for rescued wildlife, offering them a better quality of life.

Position Summary

The small animals area at Jacj Cuisi Sanctuary is home to coatis and a tayra. The position involves feeding the animals, cleaning and maintaining enclosures, providing environmental enrichment, daily monitoring of the animals, and training volunteers assigned to the area.

The coordinator will also be responsible for supporting, guiding, and supervising the volunteers working in the small animals area.

Responsibilities

• Be in charge of the small animals area and ensure the wellbeing of the animals.
• Train new volunteers in handling protocols and introduce them to working with the animals.
• Implement measures to ensure the wellbeing of both animals and volunteers.
• Work closely 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 daily routines according to daily conditions.
• Ensure the wellbeing of volunteers and support them with any difficulties.
• Organize the area’s activity schedule (deep cleaning days, treatments, and days off planning).
• Understand and manage animal diets according to food availability.
• Administer medication and treatments when necessary, maintaining regular communication with the veterinary team.
• Supervise general maintenance of the area.
• Ensure volunteers follow internal rules and report any non-compliance.
• Guarantee proper use, responsible handling, and return of all Center tools.
• Ensure that only authorized personnel enter the area.
• Attend meetings led by the administration or presidency and maintain clear and fluid communication.
• Know and apply emergency protocols in case of accidents, escapes, or critical situations.

Living Conditions at Jacj Cuisi

Jacj Cuisi Sanctuary is located in a rainforest environment, so living conditions are simple and focused on community and field life. The Sanctuary offers shared rooms, bathrooms with running water and cold showers, as well as common areas such as a dining room and hammock lounge.

Electricity is limited, and mobile phone reception is restricted, available only in certain areas and exclusively with the Entel network. Wi-Fi is available in the office for an additional fee. Mattresses are made of straw, in line with the Sanctuary’s rustic and sustainable approach.

You will live and work alongside Bolivian and international staff and volunteers who are deeply committed to daily conservation work. Patience, flexibility, and a strong willingness to perform physical work under challenging conditions are essential.

Working Schedule

Daily tasks include enclosure cleaning, animal feeding, area maintenance, volunteer coordination, and support in other activities to ensure good coexistence at the Center. The workday starts around 7:00 a.m. and ends around 5:30 p.m., with 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; its income comes exclusively from volunteers and donations.

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

CIWY covers accommodation and three meals per day throughout the stay. Personal expenses—such as visa procedures (for foreign applicants or those without Bolivian residency) and transportation to the Sanctuary—are the responsibility of the candidate. CIWY provides support with the required paperwork but does not cover these costs.

Required Experience and Skills

Candidates should have a strong interest in animals, their behavior, and their wellbeing. They must have at least an intermediate level of English or Spanish, both spoken and written, as well as the motivation and availability to continue learning the language.