MKWA Senior Field Assistant

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Mauna Kea Watershed Alliance (MKWA), 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-$3,000/Mon.

DUTIES:  Serves as the Senior Field Assistant, leading field personnel involved in monitoring the native ecosystem and controlling feral animal populations, building and maintaining fence lines, and controlling alien plant invasions using mechanical and chemical means. Majority of the work is performed in remote locations and sometimes require transportation via helicopter as well as the ability to oversee helicopter external load operations. Maps invasive species locations and ungulate captures, current and proposed fence lines, fence installation, records control work and pesticide usage, and assists in public relations activities.  Must adhere to equipment use, pesticide use, and invasive species prevention protocols.  Responsible for the use, maintenance, and inventory of tools, equipment, and supplies. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. EXPERIENCE:  At least (3) years of experience in fence building, construction, feral animal and alien plant control research or with an agriculture company. Experience leading teams in the field. ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Knowledge of native Hawaiian flora and fauna, and threats from alien species, especially Mauna Kea ecosystems. Working knowledge of the principles of ecology, wildlife biology, and restoration. Working knowledge of fence installation, safe use of firearms, and herbicide application. Ability to use compass, map, and GPS hand-held units to navigate remote areas. Ability to take detailed field notes and develop systems for data collection. Ability to input field data into a computer, analyze field data using database and spreadsheet programs, and prepare draft reports.  Ability to safely apply herbicides. Ability to construct, maintain, and repair ungulate exclusion fences.  Ability to hunt feral animals using firearms, traps, and dogs.  Ability to lead a field team and to coordinate field projects and data collection.  Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain throughout the duration of employment. Must be able to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle with manual transmission including All Terrain Vehicles (ATV)/Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV).  May be required to provide a clean driver’s abstract as deemed necessary by the job requirements and/or the project.Post Offer/Employment Conditions:  Must be able to pass a criminal background check and obtain and maintain National Rifle Association and State of Hawai‘i Hunter Safety Program firearms certification within twelve (12) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment. As a condition of employment, all certifications must be obtained and maintained as specified by the certificating agency. Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee’s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals.  Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain and maintain the certificate following the training provided within three (3) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment.  Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course (A100) within six (6) months from date of hire. Must be able to complete external sling load (A219) course within twelve (12) months from date of hire.  Must be able to complete chainsaw training within twelve (12) months from date of hire.   PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Ability to hike and camp in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions, up to five (5) consecutive days.  Must be able to backpack up to twelve (12) miles over rough terrain or thick and unmarked trail conditions.  Able to backpack, lift and carry up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted. Fieldwork may involve elevational changes up to 4,500 feet in a day.  Must not be acrophobic (afraid of heights).  Must be able to work at elevations of 5,000 to 8,000 feet. 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:  Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college in a Natural Science. Prior experience using herbicides to control weedy vegetation in a forest environment. 

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) 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.