BIISC FOREST RESPONSE COORDINATOR – ID# 221004

BIISC FOREST RESPONSE COORDINATOR – ID# 221004. 

Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit.  Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC), located in Hilo, 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:  $4,000-$4,500/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Develops, conducts, and manages field operations for the island-wide response to Rapid Ohia Death, Albizia Hazard Mitigation, and other forest health issues. Trains and supervises a field team in all aspects of field operations including tree felling, plant identification, field procedures, data collection, data reporting and analysis, herbicide application, equipment use and care. Analyzes remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data to select priority areas for control and directs physical or chemical treatment of target species or coordinates removal by qualified contractors. Collects biological samples and conducts laboratory analyses, including routine genetic screening to determine the presence of a pathogen. Coordinates and directly leads regular, frequent community work days. Coordinates field operation logistics including but not limited to procuring and maintaining needed equipment and supplies, tracking supplies, planning daily field priorities, obtaining rights of entry for numerous properties along planned routes, and documenting day-to-day field work. Works with the BIISC Manager, BIISC Chair, and various programmatic Working Groups to establish priorities. Provides regular progress reports to the BIISC Manager, BIISC Committee, and to various funding organizations. Focuses significant effort on community engagement in invasive species management. Regular overnight travel to other field sites, which may involve camping for up to four (4) nights, and interisland travel may be required. Must not be acrophobic (afraid of heights). 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college  or university.  EXPERIENCE:  Three to five (3-5) years of experience in Natural Resources related field work which includes felling trees, conducting aerial (helicopter or UAV) surveys to map forest resources or pests, and collection of biological samples; collecting and managing data and providing timely, concise reports;  documented background in applying technology to better manage natural resources. Experience must include one to two (1-2) years of experience as a supervisor or a professional leader, which includes planning, evaluating, assigning work, and other related supervisory tasks.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Strong working knowledge of herbicide use and safety with experience working in control of invasive species. Strong working knowledge of forestry practices and forest health issues. Demonstrated knowledge of rules, statutes, and liability issues related to forest conservation in Hawai‘i. Demonstrated familiarity with native and non-native species, and field and environmental conditions in Hawai‘i. Familiarity with the residential communities and geography of Hawai‘i Island. Demonstrated familiarity with relevant agencies, regulations, and laws pertinent to invasive species control work including the use of helicopters and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Ability to make sound planning and logistical decisions. Strong organizational, leadership, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, and to maintain productivity when working remotely. Ability to use a personal computer, phone and tablet-based apps, and basic office software. Ability to read topographic and other map formats and use global positioning systems. Ability to develop a system to collect, enter, organize, and analyze biological data. Ability to use geographic information systems and databases to organize and analyze spatial data. Ability to use and supervise the use of chainsaws to fell trees greater than 12” in diameter. 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. Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to pass a post offer criminal background check. Must possess Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain the certificate following the training provided within  three months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment). Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course within six (6) months from date of hire. Must possess or be able to obtain the FAA Remote Pilot Certification within six (6) months of hire. Must be able to obtain and maintain State of Hawai‘i Certification for Application of Restricted Use Pesticides within six (6) 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:  Must be able to conduct fieldwork in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions, up to five (5) consecutive days. Ability to backpack and lift and carry forty (40) pounds unassisted. Ability to ride in a helicopter for up to four (4) hours at low speed while conducting surveys (must not get air sick). 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:  Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in a related field. Research, field, or management experience involving native and alien species in Hawai‘i. Experience in a plant pathology lab or as a forest pathologist, forest pest/health surveyor. Knowledge of Hawaiian biota and threats from incipient plant and animal invasions. Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing. 

INQUIRIES:  Springer Kaye 345-1668 (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. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262 or (808)956-0872. 

CLOSING DATE:  January 19, 2021. 

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.