Avian Conservation Tech I — Field Research & Recovery

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i; Hilo (HI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i in Hawaiʻi Island seeks an Avian Conservation Technician I to conduct field research on the recovery of the Hawaiian bird fauna, including post-release monitoring and aviary maintenance. The role involves field duties, data collection, and use of telemetry to study bird movements and survival.

Ideal candidates will have 3–5 years of field experience, strong Hawaiian biota knowledge, and the ability to work in remote field camps.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 3–5 years of biological fieldwork experience; data entry; remote area work.
• Knowledge of Hawaiian biota and natural history; natural resources management.
• Ability to take detailed field notes, follow data collection protocols, and perform data entry.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and field projects for recovery of the ʻālalā and other forest birds.
• Perform fieldwork to support reintroduction and post-release monitoring.
• Assist with predator control, habitat restoration, and site preparation at release sites.
• Use telemetry and monitoring gear (VHF, GPS, camera, acoustic systems) to track birds.
• Follow safety protocols, permits, and SOPs in all operations.
• Support helicopter-based field logistics, data management, GIS, and equipment maintenance.

Skills

Field notes

Data entry

GPS use

Bird identification

Vehicle operation

Basic mechanics

Communication skills

Driver's license

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

ArcGIS

Database software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i in Hawaiʻi Island seeks an Avian Conservation Technician I to conduct field research on the recovery of the Hawaiian bird fauna, including post-release monitoring and aviary maintenance. The role involves field duties, data collection, and use of telemetry to study bird movements and survival.

Ideal candidates will have 3–5 years of field experience, strong Hawaiian biota knowledge, and the ability to work in remote field camps.