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

Essential Experience

• 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

Technical Competencies

• 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

Interpersonal & Cultural Competencies

• Exceptional listening and facilitation skills with diverse community groups
• Cultural sensitivity and commitment to Indigenous self-determination
• Strong diplomatic and negotiation abilities
• 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

• Based 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

Work Environment

• 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

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