Natural Resources Job Board

Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue is seeking a few dedicated volunteers for 2025/26. Located on the edge of a lush forest in Cameroon (west-central Africa), SYCR provides sanctuary for 80 orphaned chimpanzees who are survivors of the illegal bush meat and pet trade.

 

 Founded and directed by an American veterinarian, Dr. Sheri Speede, the sanctuary offers an unforgettable opportunity to live and work in close proximity to many amazing primates. Volunteers are needed throughout the year to assist with day-to-day operations of the sanctuary and to pitch in wherever needed most. Positions are for 6 months with shorter stays possible (see below). 

 

- assisting with 4 daily chimpanzee feedings 

- washing, cutting & distributing fruit/vegetables and preparing enrichment

- maintaining camp equipment; sometimes cleaning & painting cages  

- buying food & supplies in town 

- helping care for a baby chimp(s) if needed 

- working with Cameroonian staff 

 

Important note:  safe & limited contact with chimpanzees of all ages occurs during daily feedings after one month of training. There is sometimes a need for volunteers to help care for young chimpanzees prior to their integration, if any are in care (Cameroon staff provide the majority of care).

 

Qualifications: 

- Minimum 21 yrs and paid work experience 

- Fluent in English; basic conversational French preferred

- Good health and physical stamina; able to lift up to 35 lbs 

- Able to follow protocols and adapt easily to changing tasks/schedules 

- Able to adapt to basic living conditions in an isolated setting 

 

Prefer: 

- University degree 

- Work experience as part of a group or project team 

- Experience living, or spending extended time, in a developing country (ideally Africa)

- Prior experience working with chimpanzees or other great apes 

Important note: for veterinarians, medical personnel, mechanics, and engineers, qualifications, length of stay and fee are negotiable - please inquire.  

 

Salary/funding: This is an unpaid position. Travel expenses, visa, vaccinations, etc. are paid by the volunteer. No research grants or stipends are provided. 

 

Support provided:  Lodging and vegetarian meals are provided free of charge at the site and also the transportation between Yaoundé and the sanctuary.

Length of Stay/Fees:  6-month stays are strongly preferred; shorter stays are possible based on sanctuary needs. Minimum stay is 3 months. If accepted as a volunteer, there is a one-time fee (slicing scale based on length of stay): 6 month stays - US $300 total; 5-6 month stays - US $600 total; 4-5 month stays - US $800 total; 3-4 month stays - US $1000 total. 

Application Information:  Open throughout the year. Please request an application: rebecca@sanaga-yong.org 

Website:  https://www.sychimprescue.org