Conservation and Botany Field Technician

Pālehua Conservation Initiative is seeking a self-motivated, curious and collaborative field technician to advance environmental conservation and seed bank programming in the Southern Waiʻanae Mountains. The Conservation and Botany Field Technician will support PCI’s efforts in the development and maintenance of a seed orchard, and facilitate participation in a network of seed orchards. This role involves fieldwork, data collection, seed processing, and collaboration with partners and stakeholders. This position will primarily be based out of PCI’s headquarters at Pālehua, with occasional obligations at Bishop Museum and throughout Oʻahu. The ideal candidate will have experience in natural resource conservation and botany, as well as an interest and passion for advancing PCI’s mission to protect, preserve, and restore the Southern Waiʻanae Mountains.

Organizational Background: Pālehua Conservation Initiative (PCI) was formally founded in 2023 as a nonprofit, place-based initiative to protect, preserve and restore the Southern Waiʻanae Mountains. Building upon 20 years of community-led, volunteer-driven environmental conservation efforts, PCI seeks to attract resources to Pālehua and coordinate the efforts of its many community stewards. PCI has access to approximately 20 acres of dryland forest reserve and stewards six cabins for educational and event spaces. The organization currently has one full-time program staff and multiple contractors that support events, fund development, communications, and administration. PCI is in the process of hiring two positions in 2025, with the opportunity for intentional growth over the coming years. For more information, see our website:

Pālehua Conservation Initiative is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PCI does not discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status. PCI is an inclusive organization and actively promotes equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.

Salary Range: $55,000-$65,000 | 37.5 hour work week | Competitive benefits

The Conservation and Botany Field Technician will be responsible for:

Conservation Programming:

• In partnership with the ʻĀina Programs Manager and the Executive Director, assist in the development and implementation of a conservation and restoration strategy at Pāleahua.
• Participate in report writing and field research both for the seed orchard project and the broader conservation mission of PCI.
• Conduct field research and monitoring activities to assess the health and success of seed orchards and broader PCI conservation efforts.
• Support ʻĀina Programs Manager as needed with volunteer-led workdays, education, and conservation efforts

Seed Orchard Development:

• In partnership with the ʻĀina Programs Manager and the Executive Director, establish and maintain a native seed orchard at Pālehua.
• Assist with seed processing and propagation at the Bishop Museum Seed Bank twice a month.
• Communicate directly with Bishop Museum staff and manage the implementation of and reporting on the Oʻahu Seed Orchard federal sub-award via Bishop Museum.
• Collect seeds from wild populations, documenting species, number of individuals, and out-planted plants.
• Report on all collected seeds and their propagation status.
• Ensure proper handling and storage of seeds to maintain viability.

Collaboration and Networking:

• Assist PCI in recruiting new partners for the native seed orchard network.
• Attend monthly project planning meetings with the network of Oʻahu seed orchards and collaborate with others in the network to advance shared goals.
• Represent PCI in community outreach and educational programs.
• Engage with local communities to raise awareness and promote participation in conservation efforts.

Qualifications:

• Preference for Bachelor’s degree in botany, environmental science, ecology, or a related field. Strong professional equivalent experience may also be acceptable.
• Experience in fieldwork, seed collection, and plant propagation.
• Knowledge of native plant species and conservation practices.
• Valid driver's license and access to own vehicle
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for conservation and commitment to PCI’s mission.
• Integrity: Uphold ethical standards and act in the organization and ʻāina’s best interest.
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of volunteers, staff, board members, and community members in order to advance the mission at Pālehua
• Internal drive and ability to self-manage: This position will require the candidate to have a commitment and ability to manage his/her own time and work. The candidate will need to be able to be efficient and productive without large amounts of constant oversight.
• A sense of kuleana to place: A connection to the ʻEwa moku, Oʻahu, and/or Hawaiʻi that makes you feel an intergenerational responsibility for its health.

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive. You may be asked by supervisors or managers to perform other duties. Management has the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description is not a contract for employment, and either you or the employer may terminate employment at any time for any reason.

How to apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and two references to admin@palehua.org by February 15, 2025.

Join our growing Pālehua ʻohana in this exciting opportunity to advance ʻāina and community wellness in the ʻEwa moku!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Ability to Commute:

• Honolulu, HI 96828 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Honolulu, HI 96828: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $55,000 - $65,000