KAUAI PEP PROGRAM TECH I #226409

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i; Hanapepe (HI); On-site; USD 41,343 - 49,521; Full time

Job summary

The Kauai Plant Extinction Prevention Program Technician I at Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i on Kauai seeks an organized professional to implement conservation actions and support fieldwork.

Responsibilities include data collection, GPS mapping, and coordination with DLNR and partners; you may travel to field sites and perform safety and regulatory tasks. A relevant associate degree and 3–5 years of experience are required.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Biological or Environmental Science or related field.
• 3–5 years managing biological resources in Hawai‘i.
• Bachelor’s degree can substitute for two years of experience.

Responsibilities

• Implement rare plant conservation actions to prevent extinction of critically rare species (PEP species).
• Conduct work on land controlled by DLNR, private landowners, and watershed partnerships on Kauai.
• Assist in office and field work planned by the supervisor, including rare plant collection, monitoring, surveying, protection, and alien plant and animal control.
• Drive to access field sites and assist in planning and documenting work such as scheduling, logistics, and day‑to‑day field work.
• Record and analyze field data using GPS and computer‑aided programs.
• Perform work in accordance with applicable Federal and State regulations concerning endangered species, safety & health, and pesticide use.
• Progress through levels of responsibility based on demonstrated ability and operational needs.

Skills

GPS & maps

Computer literacy

Driver’s license

Education

Associate’s Degree in Biological or Environmental Science

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

Access

Job description

KAUAI PLANT EXTINCTION PREVENTION PROGRAM TECHNICIAN I – ID# 226409

CLOSING DATE: August 5, 2026.

Regular, Full‑Time, RCUH Non‑Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Plant Extinction Prevention (PEP) Program, located on Kauai, 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: $4,071 per month.

Duties

• Implement rare plant conservation actions to prevent extinction of critically rare species (PEP species).
• Conduct work on land controlled by DLNR, private landowners, and watershed partnerships on Kauai.
• Assist in office and field work planned by the supervisor, including rare plant collection, monitoring, surveying, protection, and alien plant and animal control.
• Drive to access field sites and assist in planning and documenting work such as scheduling, logistics, and day‑to‑day field work.
• Record and analyze field data using GPS and computer‑aided programs.
• Perform work in accordance with applicable Federal and State regulations concerning endangered species, safety & health, and pesticide use.
• Progress through levels of responsibility based on demonstrated ability and operational needs.

Primary Qualifications

Education

• Associate’s Degree in Biological or Environmental Science from an accredited community college or university.

Experience

• 3–5 years of experience managing biological resources in Hawaiʻi, documented under employment at an academic institution, government agency, private company, or non‑profit organization.
• A Bachelor’s Degree in a natural science or related communication field can substitute for two (2) years of experience.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of vegetation or rare plant monitoring techniques and data collection.
• Knowledge of herbicide use and weed control techniques.

Abilities & Skills

• Proficiency with GPS, altimeter, compass and maps.
• Computer literate.
• Valid driver’s license and personal driver’s insurance if a personal vehicle is used.
• Ability to drive a four‑wheel drive vehicle with manual transmission.

Post‑offer conditions include completion of a helicopter safety course within six (6) months, American Red Cross First Aid/CPR certification (or obtain within three (3) months), Hazard Communication training, chainsaw training within twelve (12) months, and, if required, rappelling training within twelve (12) months.

Physical and Medical Demands

Work under dirty, muddy, rainy or sunny, hot or cold, and strenuous outdoor conditions; hike up to 10 miles per day; backpack up to 35 pounds; camp in remote terrain up to four days.

Secondary Qualifications

• Experience managing rare and endangered species and ecosystems on Kauai.
• Knowledge of endangered species management and applicable federal, state, and local environmental laws.
• Proficiency with environmental inventory and assessment techniques.
• Experience in weed and ungulate control, helicopter operations in Hawaiʻi, chainsaw work, and herbicide use.
• Current Hawai‘i certification to apply pesticides.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access; ability to record biological data with GPS and download into a computer.

Other Requirements

Compliance with all RCUH, UH, and applicable business entity policies, procedures, trainings and applicable laws.

Employer Statements

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.