Internships in Galapagos

As part of your internship with IOI you can learn with us, develop key professional skills, and help us implement sustainable development programs in one of the most unique places of the planet. We're always looking for talented, skilled interns to join our team here on Isabela. If you're passionate, articulate, quick, driven, enthusiastic, and want to make a real difference in an innovative and flexible environment, why not join us on our mission?

What does an IOI internship entail?

Our impactful internships are the perfect way for you to develop key professional and personal skills, interact with local institutions and get first-hand experience in working in the sustainability field. With your IOI internship you will develop key skills while contributing to the sustainable development of Galapagos and helping us to work towards achieving the global UN SDGs. Personal and professional development AND sustainable impact- the perfect combo!

Starting at a minimum of 6 weeks duration, our internships are organized as follows:

• Onboarding and skill development, your initial 6 weeks

  • During these 6 weeks of your internship you will be introduced to IOI, our long term sustainability strategy, and projects. You will gain valuable and needed skills during this portion of your internship from leadership and management skills, to volunteering and learning how our projects operate and how we manage logistics. Our experienced staff will monitor your progress and provide on-going feedback, including weekly meetings with your allocated mentor. You will also earn the Emergency First Response certificate during this initial phase, as well as receive Leadership Course and Off-Site Safety Management Training.

• Work Placement, 2-6 weeks

  • If you have chosen this opportunity, following the initial training period described above and depending on your interest, skills, and also the project needs on the ground, you will be assigned to your placement. This placement can last from 2 to 6 weeks in duration and will allow you to develop your skills while placed within the IOI team and our projects or placed with one of our local partners. As mentioned, your skills* and local needs at the time will define where you are best placed.

** Our local partners are Spanish-speaking thus to be considered for a placement with a partner, we will need to see that minimally you have conversational Spanish-speaking skills. You will be able to practice during the 6 weeks onboarding and skill development period. We are also partnered with an accredited pre-arrival online Spanish course if you would like to learn or brush up on your Spanish before arrival (learn more here).

What can you expect?

The initial 6 weeks of all internships will comprise of the following:

• Weekly mentorship: our staff is here to support your development and contribution to our conservation efforts. Every week you will sit down with your assigned mentor to evaluate your development, set weekly objectives, and reflect on your progress.

• Leadership training: we want you to be as autonomous and skilled as possible. Leadership is one of the most sought-after skills for potential employers. You will receive our leadership training course and have ample opportunities to put these skills into practice.

• Develop your soft skills: we know that it’s not all about your academic and technical skills. Employers and educational institutions are looking for well-rounded, adaptable, and resourceful individuals. Our internships will help you gain and develop skills that will enhance your future employability and continuing education opportunities.

• Knowledge transfer: Your internship will be led by our experienced professionals, directly communicating their real world experience to you.

• Emergency first-aid training: you will complete an internationally recognized 1st aid course. Another certification to add to your CV or resume!

The Work Placement includes:

• Variety of placements: we have a wide range of placements available to fit your needs and interest. Once trained you will be placed in one of our placements to begin to make an impact. Not only will you receive a weekly mentorship follow-up, we will also keep a constant open line of communication with your placement organization to ensure that you are making the most of this opportunity while contributing to their objectives.

• Reference: at the end of your internship you will receive a LinkedIn reference for your professional use.

What areas of internships do we offer?

IOI works with local authorities, the Galapagos National Park, schools, universities, and other international nonprofits to ensure that all its efforts are consistent with the needs of the local habitats and community. Collaboration and contribution are built into the ethos of IOI and by working together, we’re ensuring that the wild and beautiful landscape of the Galapagos remains protected and thriving for centuries to come. Learn more below about the internships that we offer on Isabela Island, Galapagos or combine projects from both internship options for a more well-rounded Isabela experience.