PCSU FOREST TECHNICIAN – ID# 18619

PCSU FOREST TECHNICIAN – ID# 18619. 

Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit. (3) Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), located at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry on the island of 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 RANGE:  $2,509-$4,372/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Gathers ecological and forestry research data using a variety of established methods, procedures, and techniques. Collects data from multiple plot sites and modifies procedures as necessary. Plans and carries out procedural and technical steps required to complete surveying and field data collection projects, including using maps and aerial photographs to determine research areas. Gathers, measures, and records varied research field data, including information on species and their characteristics at many remote forest plots. Follows procedures for measuring and recording field data on such things as the number, size, age, quality, and condition of sample trees. Identifies the presence and damage of selected forest pathogens and insect pests to the sample of trees. Interprets and classifies land use and vegetative conditions. Identifies and records understory vegetation coverage. Exercises initiative in developing solutions to common technical and procedural problems such as changes in priorities, need for extended field time, minor adjustments related to the need for additional equipment or personnel, or other comparable issues. Makes suggestions and recommendations for more efficient collection of field data.  Interprets the results of standardized tests that are performed on a routine basis. Must be able to conduct work under strenuous outdoor conditions (e.g. extreme weather, mosquitoes, steep terrain). 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college in Environmental or Biological science (with emphasis on terrestrial biology), or related field.  EXPERIENCE:  One to three (1-3) years of field experience in forest ecology or management that includes measuring vegetation and navigating remote forest areas using Global Positioning System (GPS).  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Working knowledge of native Hawaiian and invasive non-native flora preferred.  Knowledge of general methods involved in gathering and recording field data for research and management projects.  Knowledge of spreadsheets, databases, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Familiarity with Hawai‘i Island’s geography. Ability to navigate with a map, GPS unit, and compass; to work alone in remote situations; to communicate well orally and in writing with supervisor and coworkers; to follow complex disease sampling instructions; and to accurately record biological data. 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. Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must be able to pass a post offer criminal background check. Must possess Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain and maintain 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 pesticide safety course within twelve (12) months from date of hire.  Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee’s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals.  Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course within six (6) months from date of hire.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Ability to hike up to ten (10) miles per day, backpack with up to thirty-five (35) pounds unassisted, and camp in remote areas and rugged terrain for up to five (5) days at a time.  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:  Experience working with GIS programs such as ArcMap to create digital maps.  Ability to work with members of the public from different cultural backgrounds. Experience with pathogens and insects. Experience with invasive species management. 

INQUIRIES:  Dr. Clifford Morden 956-9636 (Oahu). 

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) Supervisory References, 4) 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:  December 17, 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.