FOREST FIELD PROJ ASST (LC) - ID#226591

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i; Hawaii; On-site; USD 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i is recruiting for the PCSU Forestry Field Project Assistant (Landscape Conservation) in Maui, Hawai‘i. The role supports DOFAW Forest Management through field duties, GPS data collection, and habitat monitoring, with regular camping and occasional helicopter-related work.

The position requires a high school diploma or GED and 1–3 years of field experience in remote settings, knowledge of flora/fauna, and the ability to navigate with GPS.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 1–3 years field experience surveying plants/animals.
• Basic knowledge of flora, fauna, and alien species threats.
• Ability to use GPS and navigate using maps.

Responsibilities

• Assist with building, inspecting, and maintaining fences.
• Monitor/control alien plants, feral pigs, axis deer, goats, and predators in MOIs.
• Deploy game cameras and bait stations for ungulate/predator monitoring.
• Input data into GPS and computer databases; assist with flora/fauna surveys.
• Work camping trips up to 4–5 days; travel on project vehicles; irregular hours.

Skills

Field survey

GPS navigation

Data entry

Fence inspection

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

PCSU FORESTRY FIELD PROJECT ASSISTANT (LANDSCAPE CONSERVATION) – ID# 226591.

CLOSING DATE: October 12, 2026, or until filled.

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit, working in support of the Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), Forest Management Section, located in Maui, 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: $3,654/Mon.

DUTIES

Assists with building, inspecting, and maintaining fences. Monitors and controls alien plants, feral pigs, axis deer, feral goats and predators at the within and around each designated management area of interest (MOI) or exclosure. Conducts ungulate (e.g., feral pigs, feral and mouflon sheep, and other ungulates as necessary) control and monitoring activities in designated MOIs or exclosures, Maui Nui DOFAW managed lands and watershed partnership lands. Deploys game cameras and bait stations to facilitate ungulate and small predator capture. Inputs data into GPS equipment and computer database. Conducts alien and native plant monitoring and invasive plant control. Controls alien plants using mechanical and chemical/biological techniques. Establishes and monitors transects to evaluate forest recovery and plant distribution. Performs assigned duties related to habitat protection, including site preparation, seed collection, seed propagation, and out planting. Assists with flora and fauna surveys, including invertebrates. Requires frequent camping for four to five (4-5) days a week, up to two (2) weeks per month. Drives project vehicles to work sites. Travels and works in and around helicopters. Works extended, irregular hours.

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
• One to three (1-3) years of field experience surveying plant and animal populations and work in remote settings.
• Basic knowledge of flora and fauna, and threats from alien species.
• Working knowledge of the principles of ecology and wildlife biology.
• Ability to navigate using a compass, map, and Global Positioning System (GPS) hand-held units.
• Ability to apply herbicides.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to inspect and repair fences.
• Ability to use a computer to record technical field data, analyze field data using database and spreadsheet programs, and prepare draft 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 Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain the certificate following the training provided within twelve (12) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment. Must be able to complete chainsaw training within twelve (12) months of from date of hire. Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee's initial exposure to hazardous chemicals. Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course (A100) within six (6) months from date of hire.

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS

Ability to conduct fieldwork in dense vegetation or over lava substrate under difficult conditions (e.g., heat, rain, cold temperatures, poor footing). Ability to hike and camp in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions for up to five (5) consecutive days, up to three (3) weeks per month. Ability to backpack, lift, and carry up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted.

POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT

As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings. 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

• College coursework in biology, ecology, wildlife management, botany, or related field.
• Experience in hunting feral animals.
• Experience using radio telemetry, and Global Information System (GIS).
• Experience constructing, repairing or inspecting enclosure fencing.
• Knowledge of endangered fauna and flora species in Hawai‘i.
• Familiarity with the Maui Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW).

RCUH's mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i.

RCUH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, marital status, reproductive health decision, citizenship, gender identity or expression, domestic or sexual violence victim status, military/veteran status, or other grounds protected under applicable federal and state laws, except as permitted by law.