BIISC INVASIVE SPECIES MONITORING TECHNICIAN – ID# 17026

BIISC INVASIVE SPECIES MONITORING TECHNICIAN – ID# 17026. 

Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit.  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. 

MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY:  $3,333/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Implements a comprehensive invasive species ecological monitoring program. Establishes monitoring plots in areas that have been selected for invasive species control. Responsible for collecting data and samples from each of the designated monitoring sites, conducting lab analysis of collected tissue and soil samples, entering and analyzing data, and assisting in synthesis of results and presentations and/or publications to the community. Monitors effectiveness and impact of control work on target invasive species and ecosystems. Tags, measures, and monitors decomposition of treated plants. Measures stand level species composition, plant cover, woody debris mass and dynamics, vegetation cover, seedling and stem density, each monitoring plot. Collects distribution information using Global Positioning System (GPS). Trains field workers in identifying characteristics of invasive plant species and population ecology.  Coaches and monitors progress of the field workers in data collection and data entry. Writes and regularly updates standard operating procedures related to duties.  Assists with grant proposals upon request. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Botany, Biology, Natural Resource Management, or a related field.  EXPERIENCE:  Two to four (2-4) years of experience working in the field of botany, invasive species control, plant production or natural resources management. Experience must demonstrate substantial data management experience.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Knowledge of plant taxonomy, invasion biology, and tropical ecosystem processes.  Proficient in word-processing and data entry.  Proficient in methods for gathering technical information on invasive plant characteristics and control methods.  In-depth knowledge of Hawaiian biota, forest ecology, and threats from alien species.  High degree of familiarity with the geographic and cultural landscape of the Island of Hawai‘i. Ability to make reliable and consistent field identification of common native and invasive species.  Demonstrated ability to use botanical keys to identify unknown species.  Ability to navigate with map and compass, and handheld GPS units.  Proficient in ArcGIS software and database systems.  Ability to discuss invasive species with a wide variety of audiences and venues.  Ability to communicate effectively to gain acceptance and support for program objectives.  Must write clear and concise reports.  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. Must be able to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle with manual transmission. Post Offer/Employment Condition:  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 within six (6) months from date of hire. Must be able to obtain and maintain State of Hawai‘i Certification for Application of Restricted Use Pesticides within six (6) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment. Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee’s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Ability to hike and camp in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions, up to four (4) consecutive nights.  Able to lift and carry a back pack up to twenty-five (25) pounds unassisted throughout the work day. 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:  Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in a related field. Specific training/experience in one (1) or more of the following: biostatistics, environmental compliance, remote sensing, entomology.  Experience with helicopter safety and operations. Knowledge of field conditions, road networks, communities, and conservation priorities on the Island of Hawai‘i.  Experience with the accurate identification of a wide variety of plants, insects, and other organisms through use of dichotomous keys and consultation with experts.  Knowledge of data analysis techniques and statistics.  High level of proficiency with GIS mapping and analysis, and/or database design.  Background in operations, safety supervision, or mechanic work. 

INQUIRIES:  Springer Kaye 933-3340 (Hawai‘i). 

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. 

CLOSING DATE:  January 31, 2017. 

RCUH’s mission is to support the research and training programs of the University of Hawai‘i and to enhance research, development, and training generally in Hawai‘i.

Equal Opportunities Employer – Minorities/Women/Disability/Veteran.