KISC EARLY DETECTION BOTANIST – ID# 222157

KISC EARLY DETECTION BOTANIST – ID# 222157.

Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit.  Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Kauai Invasive Species Committee (KISC), located in Kapaa, Kauai. 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:  $3,300/Mon.

DUTIES:  Implements an early detection program on Kauai.  Surveys selected high-risk sites for incipient non-native plant escapes, assesses their invasive potential, and collects and identifies them using the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) collections and other resources. Utilizes navigational software and botanical reference materials (e.g., regional floras, monographs, etc.) for identification of unidentified plant specimens. Promptly identifies the plant specimens brought to the herbarium by weed management groups island-wide. Drives to various work sites and to attend meetings. Responsible for logistics and coordination of early detection field activities, including protocols for safety. Conducts original research and publishes in peer-reviewed journals in order to inform the scientific community of early detection plant findings. Maintains organized records of collected plant vouchers on Kauai, as well as records of positively identified herbarium vouchers. Trains personnel in proper identification of select target and early detection species. Assists in the development of early detection programs statewide.

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Botany, Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences, or related field.  EXPERIENCE:  Two to four (2-4) years of experience working in the field of botany, invasive species control, or natural resources.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Knowledge of plant taxonomy, invasion biology and botanical specimen curating protocols. Good working knowledge of the scientific identity of common weedy species in Hawai‘i. Knowledge of Hawaiian biota and threats from alien species. Familiarity with basic survey techniques. Knowledge of database programs and Global Positioning System (GPS) devices. Ability to identify common plant species in Hawai‘i, including agricultural and landscape plants and roadside weeds. Ability to use, collect and prepare botanical reference and herbarium specimens to identify unknown plants. Ability to use a personal computer. Proficient in use of ArcGIS, mapping software, or database software. Ability to read and produce maps. Ability to write clear and concise reports. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 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 Condition: 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 complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee’s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals. If selected for helicopter transport, must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course (A100) within twelve (12) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment. If selected for rappelling duties, must be able to complete rappelling training and submit rappelling training certification to PCSU prior to activity.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Ability to backpack, lift, and carry up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted. Ability to hike in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions. 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 Botany, Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences, or related field. Experience in botanical investigations, an invasive species early detection program, identifying unfamiliar plant species, or curating botanical specimens.

INQUIRIES:  Tiffani Keanini 634-2526 (Kauai).

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)956-7262 or (808)956-0872.

CLOSING DATE:  April 21,  2022.  

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.