Dates: March – June 2015 Term: 3 months with the possibility to extend Apply by: Open until filled; applications will be reviewed as they are received
Suitable For: Adults Difficulty Level: Strenuous Activities: Botany, Computers, Natural Resources
Opportunity Description: Volunteer needed for three months at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HAVO) to assist with field and office work for focal terrestrial plant community and established invasive plant species monitoring. The two monitoring projects are long-term studies intended to detect changes in plant communities and invasive species in Hawaiian wet forests.
The volunteer will work in a group of 2-6 individuals conducting field work in the wet forest, sometimes under minimal supervision. Field work for both projects will require the establishment of temporary and permanent plots, plant identification, and extensive vegetation data collection. Projects necessitate navigation by GPS, map, and compass. Office work entails data entry into MS Access database and post-processing of field photos. Additional duties in the office or field may arise.
Applicant must have a strong background in botany/biology/ecology, an interest or knowledge of Hawaiian plants, and experience in challenging backcountry conditions. The position will require hiking extended distances (up to 10 miles/day) on and off of trails carrying a 30-40 lb. backpack in varying conditions. Applicants should anticipate hiking and working in inclement weather, on rough lava terrain and in dense wet forests. Climates range from high heat and high humidity to cold, wet, and windy climates. Transport to remote sites may involve travel in 4x4 vehicles and helicopters. Helicopter training will be completed after acceptance as necessary. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, have a valid driver’s license, and be able to camp overnight for up to a week at time. Some college education and plant experience are highly preferred.
The area is subject to elevated levels of volcanic fumes, particularly sulfur dioxide (SO2). Such fumes can present an immediate and cumulative health hazard, particularly to persons with breathing and heart difficulties. While every effort is taken to avoid or reduce exposure, applicants with medical or respiratory conditions such as asthma, should seriously consider their ability to work and live in these conditions before applying.
A meal reimbursement of $25.00 per working day (based on four-10hour days/week) and shared housing within the park will be provided. The resident community within the park is small and located in a remote area. The climate is cool and rainy year round. Volcano Village, a small community with limited services, is located 5 miles away. The nearest large city of Hilo (population 40,000) is located 30 miles from the park. Limited public transportation is available, and government vehicles are not provided for transportation not related to work activities.
If you are interested in volunteering, please list specific relevant vegetation experience in your resume. Once accepted, the volunteer is expected to obtain a background check before starting work.
For additional information or to apply, contact the Inventory and Monitoring Biological Science Technician, Melissa Simon by email: Melissa_Simon@nps.gov Please cc: Meagan_Selvig@Contractor.nps.gov
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