Hawaiian Native Plant Propagation & Restoration Specialist

The Kohala Center; Hawaii; Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The Kohala Center in Hawai‘i seeks a Hawaiʻi native plant specialist to lead germination, propagation and outplanting at Keawewai, supporting restoration and education.

You will conduct field research, manage nursery activities, monitor invasive threats, and collaborate with kumu, planters, and community members to build native food forests.

Ideal candidates bring five years of native plant experience, nursery skills, and strong organizational abilities, with a commitment to mālama ʻāina.

Qualifications

• Three+ years in agriculture, forestry, natural resources, or conservation.
• Five+ years germinating and growing native plants from seed.
• Experience studying Hawai‘i native plant science with experts.
• Working knowledge of nursery operations, maintenance, and repair.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong safety mindset for staff and learners.
• Basic proficiency in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (desirable).

Responsibilities

• Engage with kumu and communities to understand needs for ʻāina and kānaka.
• Strengthen networks with Hawaiʻi-native nurseries, planters, and conservation groups.
• Support site visits, huaka‘i, and stewardship days for learning.
• Conduct research and collect data for native reforestation efforts.
• Support seed collection, germination, and outplanting activities.
• Care for irrigation systems and equipment maintenance.
• Plan soil fertility, water, and growing conditions for native species.
• Establish seed/seedling inventories with data tracking.
• Prepare native forest starter kits for community restoration.
• Support maintenance of facilities, tools, and equipment at Keawewai.

Skills

Native plant propagation

Field research

Nursery operations

Organizational skills

Community engagement

Safety and responsibility

ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi familiarity

Education

Bachelor's/Associate in agriculture/ethnobotany/horticulture

Hawaiian studies coursework a plus

Job description

The Kohala Center in Hawai‘i seeks a Hawaiʻi native plant specialist to lead germination, propagation and outplanting at Keawewai, supporting restoration and education.

You will conduct field research, manage nursery activities, monitor invasive threats, and collaborate with kumu, planters, and community members to build native food forests.

Ideal candidates bring five years of native plant experience, nursery skills, and strong organizational abilities, with a commitment to mālama ʻāina.