Raa Atoll Project Manager

WiseOceans Ltd

WiseOceans Ltd

Operations

Maldives · Majuro Atoll, RMI · Kaafu Atoll, Maldives

Posted on Mar 31, 2026

Raa Atoll Project Manager

The Maldives Manta Conservation Programme (MMCP) is seeking an experienced and dynamic Project Manager to lead our manta ray research base in Raa Atoll.

This is a rare and highly sought-after opportunity to work at the intersection of marine science, conservation, and luxury hospitality. Based within a 5 resort environment, the role combines rigorous field research with the delivery of exceptional, guest-facing experiences.

Guest engagement is central to this position. You will design and lead a premium manta ray experience programme, hosting and inspiring international, high-end resort guests from around the world while acting as a key ambassador for MMCP and our resort partner.

This role offers a unique lifestyle opportunity to live and work within a world-class resort environment while contributing to globally significant manta ray research and conservation efforts.

We are looking for a confident and personable marine professional who thrives in a high-performance, guest-focused environment and can balance scientific integrity with outstanding service delivery.

The Maldives Manta Conservation Programme (MMCP) is seeking an experienced and dynamic Project Manager to lead our manta ray research base in Raa Atoll.

This is a rare and highly sought-after opportunity to work at the intersection of marine science, conservation, and luxury hospitality. Based within a 5 resort environment, the role combines rigorous field research with the delivery of exceptional, guest-facing experiences.

Guest engagement is central to this position. You will design and lead a premium manta ray experience programme, hosting and inspiring international, high-end resort guests from around the world while acting as a key ambassador for MMCP and our resort partner.

This role offers a unique lifestyle opportunity to live and work within a world-class resort environment while contributing to globally significant manta ray research and conservation efforts.

We are looking for a confident and personable marine professional who thrives in a high-performance, guest-focused environment and can balance scientific integrity with outstanding service delivery.

Location: Raa Atoll, Maldives (Resort-based)

Position Type: Self-employed (Consultancy)

Availability: Minimum May 2026 to May 2027

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and deliver high-quality, guest-focused manta ray experiences, including snorkelling and diving excursions
  • Design and continuously develop a structured programme of guest activities (talks, briefings, and in-water experiences)
  • Act as the primary point of contact for guest engagement, maintaining a strong and visible presence within the resort
  • Collaborate with resort teams to develop and promote manta-related experiences
  • Identify opportunities to enhance both guest experience and conservation impact
  • Conduct daily fieldwork, including snorkelling and diving, to collect and analyse manta ray data
  • Lead reporting outputs for stakeholders, government, and scientific audiences
  • Represent MMCP and The Manta Trust in outreach initiatives, workshops, and events
  • Support and provide day-to-day guidance to team members, fostering a professional and collaborative working culture
  • Ensure all risk assessments, consent forms, and operational protocols are in place and maintained

What Success Looks Like in This Role:

  • Delivery of consistently high-quality, engaging guest experiences
  • Strong working relationships with resort teams and stakeholders
  • High standards of data collection and meaningful research outputs
  • A visible and positive contribution to both conservation impact and guest satisfaction
  • Professional, well-organised programme management in a resort environment

Essential Requirements:

  • BSc in Marine Biology, Environmental Conservation, or related field (Note: For Maldivian nationals, relevant field experience may be considered in place of a degree)
  • Minimum PADI Divemaster (or equivalent) in active status
  • AIDA2 (or equivalent) freediving certification (or willingness to obtain)
  • High level of physical fitness, with the ability to undertake daily, prolonged in-water work (4+ hours) in variable and sometimes challenging ocean conditions
  • Strong interest in manta rays, marine conservation, and research
  • Fluent written and spoken English (Dhivehi desirable)
  • Proven experience in guest-facing roles, ideally within luxury or high-end tourism
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong organisational skills and ability to manage a varied workload
  • Self-motivated, adaptable, and professional in a resort island environment
  • Competent in Microsoft Excel and general computer use

Desirable skills:

  • Experience working in the Maldives or remote resort environments
  • Background in marine guiding, eco-tourism, or expedition leadership
  • Experience delivering structured guest or educational programmes
  • Strong fieldwork and marine species identification skills
  • Data analysis experience (e.g. R or similar)
  • Report writing and scientific communication experience
  • Leadership or team management experience
  • Drone operation and/or photography skills

Equipment Requirements:

  • Personal Laptop (with photo editing software e.g. Lightroom);
  • Underwater Camera equipment (e.g. Olympus Tough TG-6 + Housing (GoPro suitable)
  • Personal snorkel & dive gear (or willingness to obtain)

Inclusions & Exclusions:

  • Monthly consultancy fee: $1000–$1200 (depending on experience)
  • Accommodation and meals provided
  • Internal work-related travel and one international return flight included
  • Consultants must arrange their own insurance (travel, health, liability, etc.)
  • Consultants are responsible for managing their own tax obligations and insurance (including travel, health, and liability)

How to Apply

Please click on the button below or use the following link:

https://wiseoceans.etalent.net/mt001-raa-atoll-project-manager

When applying please make sure to upload a:

  • CV (max. 2 pages)
  • Cover letter (max. 1 page)

PLEASE ENSURE YOUR CV AND COVER LETTER ARE SAVED ON THE SAME DOCUMENT

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and a suitable candidate may be selected prior to the deadline.

If you have any further questions or problems with your application, please email Tam Sawers: tam@mantatrust.org

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