Team Leaders
TEAM LEADERS
What Team Leaders Do
Team Leaders play a key role in ensuring each survey runs smoothly, safely, and in compliance with research guidelines.
They coordinate with the Skipper and survey team, organize materials, and help ensure all required data is accurately collected during each survey.
Why Be a Team Leader?
- Take on a leadership role in dolphin research and conservation
- Help guide and support fellow volunteers in the field
- Build experience in coordination, communication, and field leadership
- Play a key role in ensuring high-quality data collection
How to Become a Team Leader
Step 1 — Become a Member
Becoming a member is your first step toward volunteering and participating in real dolphin research.
Step 2 — Complete Training
Once you’ve joined, you’ll be able to sign up for training to learn our survey methods and protocols.
Step 3 — Join a Survey
After completing training, you can sign up for upcoming surveys and begin gaining hands-on field experience.
Before the Survey
- Coordinate arrival time and location with the team
- Review survey details and assignments
- Ensure all required forms and materials are prepared
- Download and organize survey sheets from the website
During the Survey
- Guide the team through survey procedures
- Ensure data is recorded accurately and completely
- Ensure all dolphin protection guidelines are followed
- Support team members and answer questions as needed
After the Survey
- Collect completed data sheets and materials
- Retrieve memory cards from photographers
- Submit all data for processing and review
Important Guidelines
Team Leaders follow established research protocols, including:
- Maintaining a distance of at least 50 yards from dolphins
- Avoiding chasing, turning toward, or following dolphins
- Minimizing disturbance to natural dolphin behavior
- Following all MMPA (Marine Mammal Protection Act) and NOAA-NMFS guidelines
Becoming a Team Leader
Assistant Team Leaders support the Team Leader during surveys and help guide the team.
After gaining experience on multiple surveys and demonstrating strong knowledge of protocols and leadership skills, volunteers may be invited to advance into a Team Leader role.
Equipment & Materials
Team Leaders may be responsible for a survey kit, which can include:
- Waterproof case
- Emergency reference materials
- Data sheets and forms
- Camera memory cards and supplies
A $30 refundable deposit is required for the Team Leader kit to help ensure materials are returned and maintained.
Training Resources
- Training materials and protocol videos are available for review
- All volunteers are expected to stay up to date with current procedures
