VOLUNTEER PROGRAM ASSOCIATE #226509

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i; Volcano (HI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Research Corporation of the University of Hawai‘i seeks a TMA Volunteer Program Associate to lead and coordinate service-learning activities across the Three Mountain Alliance, including Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in Volcano, Hawai‘i.

You will work with schools and community groups to plan planting, seed collection, weed control, trail work, and other outdoor projects, while managing volunteers and communications, with emphasis on safety and reporting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Biology, Education, Horticulture or related field.
• At least 1 year of experience in environmental outreach.
• Experience working with students aged 12–18 years.
• Knowledge of Hawaiian native plants and outdoor education desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead coordinator for TMA service learning program and volunteer activities.
• Plan and conduct planting, seed collection, weed control, trail building and related tasks.
• Coordinate with schools and community groups; maintain volunteer contact lists and promote opportunities.
• Ensure safety standards, reporting, and record-keeping for the program.

Skills

Communication

Outdoor leadership

Community outreach

Independence

Weather tolerance

4WD operation

ATV/UTV safety

First Aid/CPR

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Education, Horticulture or related field

Tools

MS Office

Adobe InDesign

Photoshop

Job description

TMA VOLUNTEER PROGRAM ASSOCIATE – ID# 226509.

CLOSING DATE:August31,2026, or until filled. Job postings are removed from the RCUH Job Openings site once the recruitment process has ended. INQUIRIES:CorieYanger808-430-0913 (Hawai`i).

Regular, Full-Time, Limited-Term (not to exceed two (2) years in duration from date of hire), RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Three Mountain Alliance (TMA), ‘ImiPononoka‘Āina Environmental Education Program, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, located in Volcano, 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/Mon.

DUTIES:

Lead coordinator for the Three Mountain Alliance (TMA) service learning program (“NāKiaʻiKūmokuhāliʻi”). Coordinates and leads volunteer activities at sites across the TMA Management area including Keauhou, Lupea, and others to be determined (TBD). Plans and leads service‑based activities for volunteer groups including planting, seed collection, weed control, trail building, and other activities. Works closely with TMA Propagation Field Assistant to plan and implement planting activities across TMA sites. Assists with plant propagation and related activities. Works with schools, community members and other groups to develop a recurring volunteer program with TMA. Maintains contact lists for volunteers and manages email and social media networks to promote volunteer opportunities. Conducts work according to high standards of safety. Develops watershed and culturally‑based narratives, practices, and activities to enrich the volunteer experience. Ensures that all reporting and record keeping related to volunteer program is maintained.

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION

Bachelor`s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Biology, Education, Horticulture, Hawaiian Studies or related field.

EXPERIENCE

At least one (1) year of experience working in an environmental outreach position. Experience working with students ages twelve to eighteen (12‑18) years of age. Experience in outdoor education.

KNOWLEDGE

Knowledge of natural resources processes and natural and cultural history of Hawai‘i. Knowledge of basic restoration principles. Knowledge of Hawaiian native plants. Working knowledge of Microsoft (MS) Office programs (Excel, PowerPoint, Word), social media messaging, and Adobe graphic design programs (InDesign, PhotoShop).

ABILITIES & SKILLS

• Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Must be able to effectively manage groups of people in an outdoor setting.
• Must be able to establish rapport with local community groups, schools, and other potential volunteers.
• Must be able to work independently and cooperatively with a group.
• Must be able to work in varying weather conditions (rain, cold, heat, etc.) and carry heavy (at least thirty (30) pounds) tools and supplies across rough terrain.
• Must be comfortable operating 4WD vehicles and spending long days outside or in the greenhouse.
• 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.
• Ability to operate all‑terrain vehicle (ATV) and utility task vehicle (UTV).Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must be able to pass a post offer criminal background check.
• Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain and maintain the certificate following the training provided within three (3) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment.
• 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 an ATV/UTV safety certification course within six (6) months of hire.

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDSMust be able to carry at least fifty (50) pounds assisted. Must be able to hike long distances (more than one (1) mile) over rugged terrain in sometimes rainy, cold, and muddy conditions.

POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENTAs 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:

• Knowledge of Hawaiian culture; perspective, practice and language.
• Skilled in native Hawaiian plant and animal identification.
• Experience leading groups in an outdoor setting.
• Experience working with schools and community groups in Hawai‘i.
• Experience working with plant propagation or forest restoration programs.

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.