BIISC EARLY DETECTION PROGRAM TECHNICIAN – ID# 18263

BIISC EARLY DETECTION PROGRAM TECHNICIAN – ID# 18263. 

Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit.  Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC), located in Hilo, Hawai‘i.  Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.

MONTHLY SALARY:  $3,500/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Implements a comprehensive invasive species early detection program on the island of Hawai`i.  Surveys selected sites (e.g., natural and residential areas, roadsides, nurseries, botanical gardens, and agricultural sites) and/or cargo for species being introduced to the Island of Hawai‘i.  Assesses the risk of invasiveness and feasibility of managing incipient species island-wide. Promptly identifies biological specimens collected by partners and private citizens island-wide.  Develops use of new technology for cost saving survey techniques. Responsible for logistics of field activities, including developing and adhering to protocols for safety, obtaining access permissions, and maintaining inventories of supplies. Uses Global Positioning System (GPS)/Geographic Information System (GIS) and Access Databases to collect, store, analyze, and report on survey data.  Contributes to creating and preserving a positive, safe, team-oriented work environment.  Interacts regularly with members of the public.  Some leadership and training of volunteers, interns, and other staff will be expected.  Publishes in peer-reviewed journals and may be asked to present at professional meetings and outreach events.  Promotes sound invasive species management to the public. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university.  EXPERIENCE:  Two to four (2-4) years of experience working in the field of botany, entomology, pathology, invasive species control, plant production, or natural resources management.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Knowledge of taxonomy, invasion biology, and botanical specimen curating protocols.  Proficient in word-processing and data entry.  Proficient in methods for gathering technical information on invasive plant characteristics and control methods.  In-depth knowledge of Hawaiian biota or production agriculture/horticulture, and threats from alien species.  High degree of familiarity with the geographic and cultural landscape of the Island of Hawai‘i.  Ability to make reliable and consistent field identification of common native and invasive species.  Demonstrated ability to use botanical keys to identify unknown species.  Ability to navigate with map and compass, and handheld GPS units.  Proficient in ArcGIS software and database systems.  Ability to discuss invasive species with a wide variety of audiences and venues.  Ability to communicate effectively to gain acceptance and support for program objectives.  Must write clear and concise reports.  Must possess a valid driver’s license (and if use of personal vehicle on the job is required, must also have valid personal driver’s insurance equivalent to Hawai‘i’s No-Fault Driver’s Insurance) and maintain throughout the duration of employment. Must be able to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle with manual transmission.  Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain the certificate following the training provided within three (3) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment. Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course within six (6) months from date of hire. Must be able to obtain and maintain State of Hawai‘i Certification for Application of Restricted Use Pesticides within six (6) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment. Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee’s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to hike and camp in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions, up to four (4) consecutive nights.  Able to lift and carry a backpack up to twenty-five (25) pounds unassisted throughout the workday.  Able to conduct fieldwork at high elevation (i.e., 9,000-14,000 feet elevation, if selected for high-altitude duties). Post Offer/Employment Condition:  If selected for high-altitude duties, must be able to work at 14,000 feet and pass a post offer high-altitude medical examination.  POLICY AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS:  As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies and procedures.  Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.).  

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:  Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in a related field. Specific training/experience in one (1) or more of the following: environmental compliance, remote sensing, nursery production, entomology, and/or pathology.  Experience with helicopter safety and operations. Knowledge of field conditions, road networks, communities, and conservation priorities on the Island of Hawai‘i.  Experience with the accurate identification of a wide variety of plants, insects, and other organisms through use of dichotomous keys and consultation with experts.  Knowledge of data analysis techniques and basic statistics.  High level of proficiency with GIS mapping and analysis, and/or database design.  Background in operations, safety supervision, or mechanic work. 

INQUIRIES:  Springer Kaye 956-3932 (Hawaii). 

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on “Job Postings.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_employment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344 or (808)956-0872. 

CLOSING DATE:  June 18, 2018. 

RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i.

Equal Opportunities Employer – Minorities/Women/Disability/Veteran.