Natural Resources Job Board

2026-27 Search Now Open

November 7, 2026 to April 30, 2027

Life Net Nature seeks a fit, mature in character, and responsible duo with a solid history of working and living together. We especially seek a couple or a pair of friends with combined backgrounds in: 1) field ornithology (ideally some tropical experience), 2) ecotourism and hospitality services, 3) guiding or nature interpretation, 4) bio-regional living including organic gardening, solar equipment, and composting, 5) wilderness and leave-no-trace camping ethics, 6) handy skills like carpentry, plumbing, and care of small engines, 7) small business operations and basic accounting, 8) first aid training, 9) loads of common sense, and 10) a problem-solving and hard-working attitude.

The two stewards live at Reserva Las Tangaras for a 175-day contract (an Ecuadorian 90-day tourist Visa plus one extension, with 5-day leeway at the end). Reserva Las Tangaras (RLT) is a 48-hectare montane forest protected area located near the town of Mindo. It is a wilderness setting with mainly hike-in access. Endemic and endangered species are protected on the property including more than 350 bird species, spectacled bear, and white-fronted capuchin monkeys.

RLT receives bird-watchers, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and tropical biology researchers, adventurous hikers, and students. Entry, overnight, and guided tour fees sustain the reserve, and help support the couple’s monthly stipend. New stewards overlap with out-going stewards for 3-4 days of training.

Qualifications: Both applicants must speak and write well in English. Both applicants must understand Spanish, and one must have intermediate to advanced skills in speaking and writing Spanish. One person must have an undergraduate degree in a topic related to the science aspects of the position: ecology, field biology, ecotourism, natural resources management, conservation biology, environmental studies, etc.

Compensation: Stipend is $400/month/couple. Housing is included. Visa extensions covered by LNN. Stewards earn additional income by offering food and beverages and guide services to guests. Food and beverage income is 100% retained by the stewards. Guiding income is split 50:50 stewards: reserve.

To Apply:  As one PDF document email 1) a joint cover letter expressing interest and qualifications of each person, 2) a professional resume (CV) for each applicant, and 3) three references for each applicant with email & phone contact information. Email application materials to Dr. Dusti Becker at dustizuni@yahoo.com.  If selected for an interview, Dr. Becker will contact you.