INVASIVE SPECIES RESPONSE TECH-ID#226621

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i; Honolulu (HI); On-site; USD 44,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i seeks a PCSU Invasive Species Response Technician I in Honolulu. This is a full-time position in the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit. The role involves conducting island-wide field operations to control invasive species and collect data using GPS/GIS tools.

You will map priority areas, collect biological samples, update databases, and assist with QA/QC and equipment maintenance. Flexibility for long days and occasional weekends is required.

Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in Environmental, Biology, Botany, Agriculture or related field.
• 1–3 years field experience in natural resource management or agricultural pest program; Bachelor’s may substitute for 2 years.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field operations for island-wide response to invasive species and pests.
• Perform aerial/ground surveys and collect samples; process per protocols.
• Create digital maps, analyze GIS data to select priority areas for field work.
• Input data into databases and ensure QA/QC.
• Assist with baseyard/equipment maintenance and public relations activities.

Skills

Map reading & navigation

Data collection & QA/QC

GIS data analysis

GPS usage

Verbal & written communication

Driver's license

Education

Associate's Degree in Environmental, Biology, Botany, Agriculture or related field

Tools

ArcMap

GPS

GIS software

Job description

PCSU INVASIVE SPECIES RESPONSE TECHNICIAN I– ID# 226621.

CLOSING DATE: October 22, 2026, or until filled. Job postings are removed from the RCUH Job Openings site once the recruitment process has ended.

INQUIRIES: Ryan Chang 808-978-0899.

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU) located in Honolulu, 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 RANGE: $3,927 - $4,000/Mon.

DUTIES: Independently conducts field operations for island-wide response to little fire ants, coqui frogs, and other priority incipient plant and pest species. Conducts aerial and ground surveys, invasive alien species removal through mechanical and chemical (i.e., herbicides) methods; collects biological samples in the field and is responsible for processing samples in accordance to established protocols; collects distribution, treatment and survey information using Global Positioning Systems (GPS); and identifies and detects targeted invasive species. Creates digital maps and analyzes Geographic Information System (GIS) data to select priority areas for target species field operations. Inputs and updates spatial and tabular data from ground and monitoring surveys in databases and ensures Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC). Implements select target pest species monitoring programs. Assists with maintenance of baseyard, vehicles, and equipment. Assists with public relations activities and events. Work schedule may vary but is typically four (4), ten (10) hour days but must be willing to work occasional weekends or five (5) day work weeks. This is a progression series job in which the employee will be expected to perform with increasing independence on progressively responsible duties. Quantity and quality of work is expected to increase as levels increase. Progression from one (1) level to the next is not dependent on time-in-grade, rather upon employee's demonstrated abilities, competence, and operational needs. Through experience, demonstrated competence, and operational needs, may be hired at the appropriate level.

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

Associate's Degree from an accredited community college in Environmental, Biology, Botany, Agriculture or related field.

EXPERIENCE

One to three (1-3) years of field experience in natural resource management, or agricultural pest program. (Bachelor's Degree in a natural sciences or agriculture related field may substitute for two (2) years of experience.).

KNOWLEDGE

Good working knowledge of native Hawaiian and invasive non-native flora. Knowledge of Hawaiian natural history and the basic elements of invasion biology. Knowledge of survey and control techniques for invertebrates, vertebrates, or plants. Knowledge of general methods involved in gathering and recording field data for research and management projects. Knowledge of GPS, data collection, and GIS.

ABILITIES & SKILLS

Ability to follow a detailed work plan and assist with logistics. Demonstrated ability to navigate with map, GPS unit, and compass; to work alone in remote situations; to communicate well orally and in writing with supervisor and coworkers; to follow complex sampling instructions; and to accurately record biological and spatial data. Ability to work with small, mechanized equipment (e.g., weedwhacker, etc.). Good computer skills. Ability to make good planning and logistical decisions in the field. Ability to accurately record biological data. Excellent coordination skills required. 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 duration of employment. Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must possess Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain 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 (A100) course within twelve (12) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment. Must be able to complete rappelling training within twelve (12) months from date of hire. Must be able to 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 an ATV/UTV safety certification course within six (6) months of hire. Must be able to complete chainsaw safety course within six (6) months of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment.

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS

Ability to hike up to ten (10) miles per day and camp in remote areas and rugged, uneven, and steep terrain for up to five (5) days at a time, twice a month under inclement weather conditions. Ability to backpack and lift and carry up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted. Must not be acrophobic (afraid of heights).

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

Experience working with GIS programs such as ArcMap to create digital maps. Ability to work with members of the public from different cultural backgrounds. Experience with pathogens or insects and/or invasive species management. Previous field experience with natural resources management in Hawai‘i. Ability to use keys and other sources to identify vertebrates and invertebrates.

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.