TMA PROPAGATION FIELD TECHNICIAN – ID# 220274

TMA PROPAGATION FIELD TECHNICIAN – ID# 220274. 

Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit.  Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Three Mountain Alliance (TMA), Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, 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:  $2,490-$4,372/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Responsible for the native plant propagation and cultivation efforts for TMA restoration and reforestation projects from seed collection to outplanting at designated sites.  Sows seeds and transplants seedlings.  Measures growth, survivorship, and other related data.  Assures optimal growth and health of native plants in greenhouse/nursery. Uses appropriate pesticides to control nursery pests and pathogens to prepare plants for outplanting. Monitors growth survival and reproduction of propagules, and makes recommendations if methods need to be changed or updated.  Drives project vehicles to work sites.  Plans and implements reforestation projects in TMA management areas.   Works with TMA field crew to prepare sites for reforestation and leads volunteer and staff reforestation projects.  Coordinates with the TMA Environmental Education Program in scheduling and planning monthly outreach activities centered on native plant restoration.  Prepares propagation plans describing appropriate species to be used.  Prepares collecting protocols, phytosanitation, and genetic management guidelines.  Prepares specific guidance for outplanting. Keeps accurate nursery records and maintains the plant propagation database.  Collects, enters, and organizes data on seedlings, propagation and survivorship.  Assists with preparing summaries, reports, and maps on native plant propagation and restoration efforts. Monitors effectiveness of propagation efforts and prepares technical reports describing results.  Maintains greenhouse, supplies, tools, and equipment.  Performs environmental education, rare plant inventory, and conducts plant and animal survey, fence construction, inspection, and maintenance. Conducts alien plant monitoring and control using mechanical and chemical techniques.  Work environment is in greenhouse and remote mountainous conditions requiring occasional camping, occasional helicopter travel, and long, irregular hours. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college in Botany, Terrestrial biology, Horticulture, or related field. (At least two (2) years of college-level coursework including botany, horticulture, terrestrial biology, or related coursework may substitute for an Associate’s degree.).  EXPERIENCE:  One to three (1-3) years of experience in a nursery or greenhouse, and field experience surveying plant and animal populations (preferably in Hawai‘i). Experience must include at least one (1) year working on a restoration project in Hawai‘i, including propagating native plants, planting large numbers of seedlings, or monitoring seedlings after planting.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Working knowledge of native Hawaiian plants and invasive weed species, including rare or endangered species.  Working knowledge of the principles of plant propagation, irrigation, pest control, and safe application of pesticides and fertilizer. Knowledge of principles of plant propagation, plant biology, nutrition and physiology, plant pathology and entomology. Knowledge of herbicides and pesticide mixing, application, use, and safety.  Knowledge of greenhouse and horticultural procedures and methods. Good working knowledge of computers, word processing, and databases.  Ability to apply pesticides safely. Ability to perform tasks with a high level of accuracy and consistency. Strong organizational/record-keeping skills. Strong communication skills. Ability to make critical decisions in the propagation/cultivation of native Hawaiian plant species. Ability to lead volunteer groups for plantings.  Ability to use radio receivers, compass, map, and Global Positioning System (GPS) handheld units.   Ability to use a computer to record technical field data, analyze field data using database and spreadsheet programs, and prepare draft 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.  Ability to operate all-terrain vehicle (ATV), utility task vehicle (UTV), and equipment used for conducting planting operations.  Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to pass post-offer criminal background check.  Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain the certificate following the training provided within six (6) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment.  Must be able to complete an ATV/UTV safety certification course within six (6) months of hire. Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course within twelve (12) months from date of hire.  Must possess the State of Hawai‘i Commercial Pesticide Applicators certification (or be able to obtain the certification within twelve (12) 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:  Able to conduct field work in dense vegetation under difficult conditions (i.e., heat, rain, cold temperatures, and poor footing).  Ability to hike and camp in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions for up to five (5) consecutive days.  Able to backpack, lift, and carry up to forty (40) 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:  Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Biological, Botanical, Horticultural, Environmental Science, or other related field with basic/related biology/botany courses. Experience in propagation and cultivation of native Hawaiian plant species. Experience in professional nursery management or the agriculture industry.  Experience in restoring native Hawaiian forests. Experience growing large numbers of native Hawaiian plants. Experience identifying common plant diseases and nutrient deficiency symptoms.  Experience using Global Information System (GIS). 

INQUIRIES:  Treasa Colleen Cole 333-7741 (Hawai‘i). 

Please apply directly on the RCUH website to be considered for the position.

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:  July 7, 2020. 

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.