PCSU Rapid Ohia Death Lab Technician ID 18640

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, located 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 - $4,548/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Conducts forest ecology and pathology studies isolating and culturing pathogens, determining impact (i.e., mortality), developing treatments, and investigating potential vectors of forest disease.  Collects, processes, analyzes plant tissue samples to determine the presence of Ceratocystis species, a fungal pathogen of Ohia.  Uses both traditional microbial culturing techniques and new molecular DNA detection techniques. Participates in other vegetation management activities as requested, including data entry and analysis, field monitoring, and rapid response activities. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college in Environmental Science, Biological Science (with emphasis in terrestrial biology), or a related field.  EXPERIENCE:  One to three (1-3) years of field experience in forest ecology and plant pathology that includes measuring vegetation, as well as collecting, processing, and analyzing fungal samples using both culturing techniques and molecular DNA approaches in the laboratory, and navigating remote forest areas using Global Positioning System (GPS). Experience navigating forest areas in Hawai‘i is preferred.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Working knowledge of native Hawaiian and invasive non-native flora.  Knowledge of general methods involved in gathering and recording field data for research and management projects.  Knowledge of clean laboratory microbial culturing techniques and molecular DNA tests. Working knowledge of Hawai‘i Island’s geography.  Basic laboratory skills related to plant pathology. Ability to communicate well orally and in writing with supervisor and coworkers; to work well both independently and with others in a field crew setting; to follow and execute complex disease sampling, processing, and analysis instructions in a laboratory environment; and to accurately record biological data both in the field and laboratory.  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 possess 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 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.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Able to carry up to thirty-five (35) pounds unassisted. 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:  Ability to work with members of the public from different cultural backgrounds.  Experience with pathogens or insects and/or invasive species management.  Familiarity with forest management practices in Hawai‘i. 

INQUIRIES:  Michelle Miyata 956-9512 (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.