HCSU FOREST ENTOMOLOGY TECHNICIAN – ID# 220277.

HCSU FOREST ENTOMOLOGY TECHNICIAN – ID# 220277. 

Hawai‘i Cooperative Studies Unit.  Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Hawai‘i Cooperative Studies Unit (HCSU), Pacific Islands Ecosystem Center’s Kilauea Field Station, located in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, 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 HOURLY RATE:  $13.98/Hr. 

DUTIES:  Supports collaborative research projects related to the role of insects in the spread of Rapid Ohia Death on Hawai‘i Island and to the distribution, host preferences, and impacts of the Queensland Longhorn Beetle. Conducts fieldwork related to forest entomology, which includes conducting surveys for beetles, collecting insects in traps, and collecting data related to biotic and abiotic factors. Drives to field sites to monitor insect traps and conduct surveys. Assists with laboratory experiments, collecting arthropods from field samples, identifying insects in the laboratory, conducting host tests, and culturing fungi. Performs laboratory studies to extract DNA from insects, wood, and environmental samples.  Communicates regularly and effectively with the project principal investigators and other staff to determine priorities, protocols, and scheduling. Communicates effectively with members of the public. Conducts all work as part of collaborative projects with the United States Geological Survey (USGS).  Contributes to additional fieldwork for USGS collaborators related to Rapid Ohia Death.  Supports ongoing data collection and maintenance of insect traps; enters and manages data. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Entomology, Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Geography, or a related field.  EXPERIENCE:  Up to one (0-1) year of experience in natural resources research, collecting or identifying insects and other arthropods,  performing basic lab techniques (e.g., extracting DNA, preparing growth media, and culturing fungi), and data entry and manipulation.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Knowledge of the principles of entomology, ecology, and molecular biology.  Knowledge of the general methods involved in gathering and recording field and lab data for research and management projects (e.g., assess readings and measurements taken, tests executed, observations made, work completed, samples collected, etc.).  Ability to survey for and collect insects in the field using standard protocols.  Ability to identify small insects using a microscope and taxonomic keys.  Ability to perform standard duties in a molecular lab.  Skilled in sample collection, data quality control, and managing complex equipment in the field and lab.  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 complete USGS Laboratory Safety & Defensive Driving training immediately upon hire and maintain throughout duration of employment.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Able to hike over difficult terrain for prolonged periods of time.  Able to lift and carry heavy equipment weighing up to fifty (50) 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 identify insects and other arthropods to the family level.  Experience maintaining live insects in the lab.  Experience running PCR reactions and sequencing DNA. 

INQUIRIES:  Lori Bufil 932-7977 (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:  June 23, 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.