Field Coordinator - Invasive Ants

Job Summary

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Maui Invasive Species Committee (MISC), located in Makawao, Maui. 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:  $5,286.68 - $5,498.84/Mon.  

DUTIES:  Assumes responsibility for managing one of the following invasive species program elements: (1) Coqui frogs, (2) Invasive ants, (3) Invasive plant species, or (4) Miconia. Coordinates and communicates daily field activities. Implements survey, control, and eradication plans and keeps accurate and detailed records of survey, treatment and control work. Prepares schedules and progress reports and submits all data and findings in a timely fashion. Supervises, trains, and works in the field with a field crew and/or volunteers to implement established action plans that target invasive alien plant and/or animal species for control or eradication in Maui County. Assists in developing and translating action plans appropriately, with the guidance of the MISC Manager, MISC Operations Manager, MISC committee, and partner agencies. Sets goals and priorities for field operations. Plans site control strategies, makes contact with residents at targeted locations, and leads the crew’s control efforts. Responsible for following and adhering to all safety and operational guidelines and ensures crew compliance. Prepares maps and regular updates for MISC, partner agencies, and the public. Conducts outreach and education for a variety of audiences on the management of target invasive species. Tracks inventory, supplies and equipment needs, and maintains equipment used. Negotiates with landowners to obtain and maintain permission for field operations and constructively resolves any conflicts that may occur.

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: 

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Biological Sciences, Agriculture, Resources Management/Conservation, or a related field. (Associate’s Degree and at least three (3) years of fieldwork experience in a natural resources management related program may substitute for a Bachelor’s Degree.).

EXPERIENCE: Three to five (3-5) years of work experience in field activities relating to invasive species control and/or resources management. At least one (1) year of experience supervising field activities. Experience communicating and coordinating with agency personnel and private landowners. Must have prior experience supervising paid staff and attendance in supervisory training programs.

KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of Hawaiian natural history and threats from incipient alien plant and animal invasions in Hawai‘i. Knowledge of identification and detection techniques appropriate for MISC target species. Knowledge of common native species. Knowledge of appropriate mechanical/chemical control techniques for invasive species, including safe and effective use of pesticides. Knowledge of the Hawaiian community, economy, and politics. Knowledge of basic computer programs including databases and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

ABILITIES & SKILLS: Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions. Strong leadership and interpersonal communication skills are essential. Good oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated proficiency in following project’s administrative, operational, and safety protocols including proper use and storage of pesticides and use and maintenance of project gear and equipment. Ability to accurately collect and store data for target species survey & control activities and to train staff in these activities. Mapmaking abilities using ArcGIS. Ability to work with/troubleshoot and train staff in use of small- mechanized equipment. Ability to read and navigate using topographic maps, state tax map keys (TMK), aerial photographs, and use GPS. Ability to collect detailed field data, organize and summarize data, and write clear and concise reports. Ability to use hand tools, heavy equipment, and portable pesticide applicators. Must be comfortable working around dogs, as necessary. 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. 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 be able to complete basic helicopter safety course within six (6) 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 be able to complete the UH Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT) within two (2) weeks from date of hire, and re-certify every twelve (12) months.  

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS: Ability to backpack, lift, and carry up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted. Must be able to conduct strenuous outdoor fieldwork in remote locations and on extremely rough and steep terrain, with daily exposure to adverse environmental conditions, including extreme heat/cold, heavy rainfall, and stinging insects. Ability to hike and camp in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions for up to five (5) consecutive days. 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 with control of invasive species in Hawai’i and specific knowledge of Hawaiian flora and fauna. Demonstrated leadership ability. Experience using pesticides and working in and around helicopters.

INQUIRIES: Brooke Mahnken 206-356-5970 (Maui).  

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.

Application Deadline: 03/17/2024

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.