Radar Monitoring Assistant

Kaua‘i Endangered Seabird Recovery Project (KESRP) is hiring a Radar Monitoring Assistant, a full-time, non-civil service position with the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii. This is a temporary (11 weeks) position, starting no later than May 15. This role is responsible for undertaking annual radar surveys to monitor the activity of two endangered seabird species on the island of Kaua‘i: Newell’s Shearwater (Puffinus newelli) and Hawaiian Petrel (Pterodroma sandwichensis). The role is also responsible for radar data management and report writing. All work must follow the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH), Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), and KESRP policies and guidelines.

Main Tasks

• 45% Works in the field to undertake KESRP annual radar surveys between May 30 and July 7 at 15 locations. Surveys are carried out in the evening. Ensures the complete implementation of the survey schedule.
• 45% Digitizes and manages the radar data collected. Enters the survey data timely. Cleans and implements quality control and assurance on radar data. Implements data analysis with the supervision of the KESRP Coordinator and writes the annual radar monitoring report.
• 10% Prepares and maintains the radar unit and radar vehicle. Performs other seabird monitoring-related duties as assigned.

Level of Supervision

Supervised by the KESRP Coordinator who provides goals and direction, and will oversee and direct project completion. Works independently in the field and on routine assignments.

Qualifications

Education and Training: One to three (1-3) years of college-level biological sciences coursework from an accredited college or university. Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Biological Sciences is a plus.

Experience: One to three (1-3) years of (paid or volunteer) experience in biological fieldwork Volunteer experience must be documented and verifiable. Demonstrated experience with one (1) or more of the following: counting animals (e.g. point counts, line transects, migration counts), bird monitoring methods, and/or operating ornithological radar. Demonstrated data management experience. Experience in seabird monitoring and conservation is a plus. Experience in scientific publications is a plus.

Abilities and Skills: Must be able to drive the radar vehicle to survey sites. Must be able to focus on a computer monitor for two hours to detect and record the birds captured by radar in real-time. Intermediate to advanced level of digital literacy and MS Office and Google Workspace skills. Ability to use GPS and compass. Attention to detail and high level of organization. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Physical and/or Medical Demands: Requires a high degree of attention to detail for equipment management and data collection, often under difficult field conditions including repetitive tasks. Requires irregular working hours and work schedules, with duties mostly occurring at night and on the weekends.

Policy and/or Regulatory Requirements: As a condition of employment, the incumbent will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and as applicable subject to the University of Hawaii'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.).

OTHER NOTES: Unfortunately, we are not able to provide housing. However, we will do our best to help the crew find housing. Residents of Kaua‘i are encouraged to apply.

HOW TO APPLY: Please send an email or any questions to the KESRP Coordinator Dilek Sahin dsahin@hawaii.edu  with the subject: Radar Monitoring Assistant. Please provide a short cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. The application period closes on April 15, 2024, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.