Policy Research Specialist (Conservation and Coastal lands)

REVISED POSTING: EXTENDED CLOSING DATE

POLICY RESEARCH SPECIALIST (CONSERVATION & COASTAL LANDS) – ID# 220089.  Social Science Research Institute.  Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the College of Social Sciences, Social Science Research Institute (SSRI).  Primary work location will be at the Office of Conservation and Coastal Lands (OCCL) in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.

MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY:  $4,800-5,200/Mon.  DUTIES:  Provides legal and policy research support to develop climate policy frameworks and support the Hawai‘i Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission. Researches relevant environmental topics to buttress policy recommendations. Compiles and analyzes research, exercises judgment, and prepares information to support the formation of policy recommendations. Drafts briefs, responses, reports, testimony, and other research materials for State staff to disseminate. Researches and compiles comments on relevant rules and plans. Responsible for completing reports from start to finish. Provides web and social media support related to the Commission’s work. Researches future/emergent legislation to determine the impact of new initiatives related to policy development and tracks bills. Consults with administrative law/policy experts, State of Hawai‘i staff, enforcement officials, Hawai‘i Attorneys General, and other law fellows to gather research on policies and rules. Attends related meetings around O‘ahu. Coordinates meeting logistics. Provides support for State-directed initiatives and policies. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Doctor of Law (Juris Doctor) Degree from an accredited college or university. (Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Social Science, Planning, Public Policy, Justice Administration, Natural Sciences, or related field and at least one (1) additional year of related paid or unpaid work experience may substitute for a Doctor of Law Degree.). 

EXPERIENCE:  At least one (1) year of paid or unpaid work experience in a relevant field, focused coursework, or externships. 

ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  General knowledge of environmental policy.  Ability to speak and write clearly, including the ability to analyze and draft documents requiring minimal review and editing. Ability to quickly scan and comprehend legal documents.  Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Ability to remain calm, polite, and respectful while effectively meeting deadlines. Ability to be flexible with changing aspects and needs of job.  Must be highly organized and have excellent time management skills. Ability to manage multiple projects at the same time. Ability to travel to neighbor islands and out of state (including car rentals) for meetings as needed. Ability to arrange own reliable means of transportation.

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:  Completion of coursework in administrative or environmental law. Excellent writing skills.  Ability to practice law in the State of Hawai‘i. Knowledge of climate change issues. General knowledge of environmental policy in Hawai‘i. 

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.