Rapid Ohia Death Research Technician

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR), 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:  $2,372-4,730/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Assists with laboratory and field studies on the biology of the Rapid Ohia Death (ROD) fungal pathogen (Ceratocystis).  Performs laboratory analyses for the fungal pathogen Ceratocystis on ohia samples including culturing of the fungus and Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) analyses.  Assists with greenhouse nursery work including growing seedlings, inoculation, and testing for pathogens.  Maintains fungal cultures in the laboratory.  Travels to field sites to collect Rapid Ohia Death samples.  Assists with field inventory of affected ohia stands.  Records and inputs data and performs preliminary analyses.  Contributes to written reports on research work. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Bachelor’s Degree in pathology, horticulture, or a closely related field from an accredited four (4) year college or university.  EXPERIENCE:  Up to one (1) year of experience with laboratory, nursery, or ecological field work.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Knowledge of fungal pathogens. Ability to use laboratory techniques to culture and identify fungal pathogens. Ability to use a personal computer and office software, including Microsoft Office.  Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain throughout the duration of employment.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Ability to hike up to 3 miles over rough terrain.  Able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds unassisted. 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:  Experience with microbiology, aseptic technique and culturing fungi. Experience in greenhouse work and growing of forest tree seedlings. Experience in using molecular techniques, including qPCR analysis. Knowledge of Hawaiian natural history. 

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on “Job Postings.” and search for the Job Opening 16674.  You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) 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)956-8344 or (808)956-0872.