Hilo, Hawai'i
INVASIVE PLANT PREVENTION TECHNICIAN – ID# 223474.
CLOSING DATE: August 2, 2023.
INQUIRIES: Frances Brewer (808) 987-0620 (Hawai‘i).
Please apply directly on the RCUH website to be considered for the position.
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: $3,900/Mon.
DUTIES: Responsible for general program support duties in the Big Island Invasive Species Committee’s (BIISC) program for detection and implements evaluation of new, naturalized, and potentially invasive plant species on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. Conducts surveys in high risk sites (e.g., nurseries, botanical gardens, agricultural experimental stations, and roadsides) for unrecorded plant species across the island and assists in the documentation and assessment of newly discovered species. Ensures prompt identification of plant specimens collected, as well as those submitted by partner agencies. Assists with coordination and logistics of field activities to implement detection plans. Assists with care of plant specimen collections and maintenance of supplies. Uses Global Positioning System (GPS)/Geographic Information System (GIS) and BIISC database to collect, store, analyze and report on survey data. Assists with a public relations, outreach, and education program (Plant Pono) to raise awareness about invasive plants in the Hawaiian Islands and to generate support for BIISC’s effort to curb the spread of invasive ornamental plants throughout the state. Contributes to creating and preserving a positive working relationships with nurseries, garden groups, landscapers, and trade organizations to increase participation in the Plant Pono Nursery program. Creates content for websites, brochures and other outreach materials promoting the Plant Pono program to growers and consumers of plants. Makes presentations to private business organizations, public agencies, community associations, and school groups. Interacts regularly, safe, team-oriented work environment. Regular interaction with members of the public. Assists with oversight and training of volunteers, interns, and other staff. May be asked to present at professional meetings and public outreach events. Promotes sound invasive species management to the public.
PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:
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EDUCATION |
Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college in Botany, Horticulture, Agriculture, Biology, Communications, Education, Business, Marketing, Public Relations, or related field. |
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EXPERIENCE |
Two to four (2-4) years of work experience working in the field of horticulture, botany, plant production, or natural resources management. Experience includes carrying out a social marketing strategy in any field, and conducting surveys of unknown species of plants in an outdoor or nursery setting. |
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KNOWLEDGE |
Knowledge of plant taxonomy, invasion biology and botanical curating protocols. Understanding of Hawaiian biota or production agriculture/horticulture, and threats from alien species. High degree of familiarity with the geographical and cultural landscape of Hawai‘i Island. |
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ABILITIES & SKILLS |
Demonstrated ability to work effectively and accurately with high degree of independence and contribute to team efforts. Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to make reliable and consistent field identification of common native and invasive species. Ability to use botanical keys to identify unknown species of unknown origin, and to communicate with specialists to have problematic species identified. Ability to write clear and concise reports and articles for publication. Proficiency in word-processing, data management, and social media. 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 Conditions: Must be able to pass a 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 three (3) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment). Must be able to obtain a Hawai‘i Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s Certification within six (6) months from date of hire. Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee’s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals. |
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PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS |
Ability to hike in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions. Ability to backpack and lift and carry up to forty (40) pounds unassisted. |
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POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT |
As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings. 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:
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Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Botany, Ecology, Horticulture, or related field. One to two (1-2) years of work experience in marketing, outreach, or public relations in a natural resources or horticulture related field. |
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_recruitment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262 or (808)956-8376. Please visit www.rcuh.com/work/benefits for more information on RCUH’s Benefits for eligible employees.
RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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