Job Details

Please apply directly on the RCUH website to be considered for the position.

PCSU/KFBRP FIELD ASSOCIATE – ID# 225360. 

CLOSING DATE: August 5, 2025. INQUIRIES:  Nicole Suckow 808-335-5078 (Kauaʻi). 

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP), located in Kauaʻi, 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:  Works independently in conjunction with a field crew conducting research and management projects for the recovery of native forest birds on Kauaʻi. Participates in carrying out research activities to determine factors influencing forest bird population dynamics, especially factors limiting populations, and management activities for the recovery of these species. Work is primarily done in the Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve, Na Pali Kona Forest Reserve, Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve, Kauaʻi. Conducts surveys to document distribution, relative abundance and survival of birds. Assists with mist-netting, banding, and nest searching, as well as management tasks, including rodent trapping and mosquito control. Enters field and Geographic Information System (GIS) data into computer files for information summary and reporting. Helps maintain electronic records and databases. Assists with equipment and vehicle management and maintenance. Participates in conscientious adherence to all safety and research protocols, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: 

EDUCATION

Associate`s Degree from an accredited community college.

EXPERIENCE

One to three (1-3) years of (paid or unpaid) experience in biological fieldwork (unpaid experience can include volunteer work or field study and must be documented and verifiable). Demonstrated experience working in remote areas.

KNOWLEDGE

Proficient knowledge of the principles of avian population ecology and conservation.

ABILITIES & SKILLS

Proficient ability to enter and manipulate data using spreadsheets and databases. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to identify individual birds by color bands and, locate and identify Hawaiian birds by sight and sound. Demonstrated ability to navigate and hike off-trail in dense forest with compass, map, and GPS. 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. Demonstrated ability to safely drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle on unimproved roads. Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course (A100) and external load course (A219) within twelve (12) months 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 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.

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS

Ability to hike up to eight (8) miles on obscure trails with up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted. Must be able to live and conduct fieldwork with other crew members in isolated field camps under inclement weather conditions for up to ten (10) days at a time on a regular basis. May require strenuous physical exertion and heavy lifting.

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 sampling insects and plants, and controlling invasive plants and animals. Experience mistnetting, banding, and taking blood samples from songbirds. Experience working with native Hawaiian flora and fauna, especially Hawaiian forest birds, and familiarity with local conservation issues. Interagency Aviation Training, Helicopter crewmember or Helicopter manager certifications. Possess basic mechanical and electrical skills to assist in maintaining project equipment, field camps, and vehicles.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to https://www.rcuh.com/work/careers/. You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Professional References, 4) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_recruitment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262 or (808)956-0872. Please visit https://www.rcuh.com/document-library/3-000/benefits/rcuh-benefits-at-a-glance/ for more information on RCUH`s Benefits for eligible employees.

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.