HCSU Botanical/Geological Research Technician

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, Hawai‘i Cooperative Studies Unit (HCSU), located at the Kilauea Field Station of the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center (PIERC).  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:  $2,501.00/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Works with the PIERC Ecologist in developing and implementing all aspects of research into the recovery of vegetation following mechanical or natural disturbance across Hawai‘i Island. Coordinates all field research activities, both geological and biological, after discussing them with supervisor and PIERC ecologist. Works effectively with a team of individuals from multiple institutions, and coordinates communication and knowledge sharing. Recruits, trains, and supervises research interns. Exercises initiative in developing solutions to common technical and procedural problems. Conducts field research relevant to vegetation and erosion studies and assures that technical field data are properly collected, entered, and analyzed. Assists in analyzing data and writing reports for administrative use and scientific publications. Prepares Geographic Information System (GIS) overlays of vegetation and sensor information. Orders supplies and materials for field projects. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Biology, Botany, Zoology, Wildlife Science, other biological discipline or Geology with at least two (2) non-introductory courses in biology, botany, ecology, or wildlife science. EXPERIENCE:  Two to four (2-4) years of experience (paid or documented volunteer work) conducting biological field research, including at least twelve (12) months of experience working with plants. At least one (1) year of experience successfully leading collaborative field sampling efforts. ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Working knowledge of the Hawaiian flora and principles of botany and ecology. Knowledge of general methods involved in gathering and recording field data for research and management projects, including the use of computers to download data under field conditions. Knowledge of techniques of vegetation ecology and field botany. Knowledge of the basic principles of field research, including ability to assess readings and measurements taken, tests executed, observations made, work completed, samples collected, etc.  Ability to manage team and coordinate logistics for remote field site. Ability to perform data management and analysis, and write scientific reports or publication. Ability to coordinate field logistics and train research interns to collect field data. Ability to work with computers entering data into spreadsheets or database programs, and to use word processing programs. Ability to install and service basic data loggers and field instruments. Ability to use topographic maps and GPS units for location positions of instruments, plants or animals in the field. Able to successfully perform multi-task duties.  Ability to drive off-road vehicles.  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: Applicants selected may be subject to a Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to unclassified information and maintain throughout duration of employment.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Work is performed in a field environment that includes moderate or sometimes extreme exposure to the discomforts of rain, cold/hot weather. Ability to hike-on obscure trails carrying a forty (40) pound backpack and to work on steep slopes. 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 or two (2) years post-graduate education in Biology, Botany, Zoology, Wildlife Science or Geology. Field research experience involving native or alien plants in 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.