Huni Kuin Sacred Forest Project Leader (freelance) in Acre, Brazil
To apply, please send your CV and a short motivation letter to jobs@sacredforests.earth
About Sacred Forests
Sacred Forests is an international boutique conservation project developer specializing in large‑scale, community‑centered environmental initiatives. Our small, global team of experts works in close partnership with Indigenous peoples and local communities to develop and implement transformative conservation projects that honor traditional knowledge while advancing climate action.
Position Overview
We are seeking an exceptional Project Leader to serve as Sacred Forests' primary representative for a landmark conservation initiative with the Huni Kuin Indigenous people on their ancestral territories in Acre, Brazil. This senior role combines strategic relationship management, operational excellence, and deep cultural competency to ensure the successful implementation of a large‑scale conservation project that respects Indigenous sovereignty and achieves measurable environmental outcomes.
You will serve as the vital bridge between Sacred Forests, Huni Kuin leadership and communities, expert partners, and diverse stakeholders. This position requires a unique combination of diplomatic skill, technical expertise, operational rigor, and genuine commitment to Indigenous‑led conservation.
Key Responsibilities
Relational Representation & Community Engagement
Serve as Sacred Forests' primary representative to Huni Kuin decision‑makers, community members, and traditional leadership
Build and maintain trusted, respectful relationships grounded in cultural sensitivity and Indigenous protocols
Facilitate community planning processes using participatory methodologies that center Indigenous voices and priorities
Employ active listening and facilitation skills to ensure community perspectives guide project implementation
Navigate complex multi‑stakeholder dynamics with diplomacy and cultural awareness
Represent the project to local authorities, NGO partners, and regional stakeholders
Operational Planning & Project Management
Lead operational planning and implementation of project activities across Huni Kuin territories
Develop and manage comprehensive project budgets, ensuring financial accountability and transparency
Apply Sacred Forests project methodology frameworks to guide implementation and compliance
Coordinate field teams, providing strategic guidance and operational support
Adapt implementation approaches based on community feedback and operational realities
Accountability & Reporting
Ensure accountability to Huni Kuin communities, Sacred Forests, and project partners
Help produce high‑quality reporting documenting progress, challenges, and results
Manage monitoring and reporting on budget execution, financial controls, and resource allocation
Maintain transparent communication channels with all stakeholders
Ensure compliance with standards and relevant regulatory requirements
Partnership & Team Coordination
Collaborate closely with local and international expert partners in finance, infrastructure, and technical domains
Coordinate with field teams, providing mentorship and operational guidance
Support knowledge sharing between Indigenous knowledge holders and technical experts
Foster effective collaboration within Sacred Forests' global team
Build strategic partnerships that strengthen project outcomes
Required Qualifications
Proven experience implementing REDD+ carbon projects or similar large‑scale conservation initiatives
Demonstrated track record working with Indigenous peoples and/or local communities in project implementation roles
Experience managing complex, multi‑stakeholder projects with cultural and operational complexity
Experience with participatory community planning and facilitation methodologies
Fluency in Portuguese and English (written and spoken) is mandatory
Strong grasp of project budgets, financial planning, and resource management
Proficiency in results monitoring, data collection, and reporting systems
Knowledge of project management tools and frameworks
Exceptional listening and facilitation skills with diverse community groups
Cultural sensitivity and commitment to Indigenous self‑determination
Capacity to build trust across cultural and organizational boundaries
Personal Attributes
Deep respect for Indigenous rights, knowledge systems, and governance structures
Commitment to environmental conservation and climate justice
High integrity and ethical standards in all professional dealings
Resilience and adaptability in remote and challenging environments
Collaborative mindset within a small, mission‑driven team
Problem‑solving orientation and strategic thinking capacity
Working Conditions
Location & Travel
Base in Acre, Brazil, with work centered on Huni Kuin territories
Work arrangement combines off‑site and on‑site presence at a ratio of 2:1 (approximately two weeks off‑site for every one week on‑site)
Regular travel to remote communities and project sites in challenging terrain
Occasional international travel for reporting and coordination with Sacred Forests' global team
Part of a small, specialized global team operating as a boutique firm
Close, ongoing collaboration with Indigenous representatives and decision‑making bodies
Work in remote locations with variable infrastructure and connectivity
Flexible work arrangements balanced with operational presence requirements
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Other
To Apply
Sacred Forests is committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous professionals and individuals with deep roots in Amazonian conservation contexts.
To apply, please send your CV and a short motivation letter to jobs@sacredforests.earth
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