KUPU: Full-Time Conservation Research & Outreach Assistant, Kupu ʻĀina Corps (KAC)

Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP; Kaumakani / Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve / Remote)

Description

The Conservation Research & Outreach Assistant is a career-development position with the Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project through Kupu ʻĀina Corps (KAC). This position is designed for individuals interested in building a professional career in wildlife conservation, ecological research, and natural resource management. KAC emphasizes technical skill development, professional mentorship, and workforce preparation while providing meaningful conservation experience.

KFBRP works to conserve three federally endangered forest birds—the ʻakikiki, ʻakekeʻe, and puaiohi—as well as the threatened ʻiʻiwi. Participants work alongside professional biologists conducting research and management in Kauaʻi’s remote native forests.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Endangered bird surveys
• Mosquito monitoring and habitat sampling
• Nest searching and monitoring
• Mist-netting and bird banding
• Predator control and remote camera maintenance
• Biological data collection and management
• Equipment maintenance
• Ecological research support

In addition to fieldwork, participants assist with environmental education, conservation communications, social media, educational materials, outreach events, and independent or collaborative research projects. The position provides broad exposure to conservation biology while encouraging participants to develop technical and professional skills that prepare them for future careers.

Working Conditions

Fieldwork is conducted in remote rainforest environments requiring:

• Hiking up to 8 miles carrying a 50-pound backpack
• Off-trail navigation through dense native forest
• Multi-day camping in remote field camps
• Work during occasional evenings or weekends for outreach events
• Occasional helicopter access to remote field sites

Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include:

• Associate’s degree or higher in biology, wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• Experience identifying birds by sight and sound
• Experience with wildlife surveys, nest monitoring, GPS navigation, mist-netting, telemetry, camera trapping, or related techniques
• Familiarity with GIS, Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, databases, or similar software
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and in a small team
• Strong interest in pursuing a career in conservation or natural resource management

Why Join KFBRP?

This position offers exceptional preparation for a career in conservation biology. Participants receive one-on-one mentoring from experienced wildlife biologists, develop technical research skills, gain experience in endangered species recovery, ecological monitoring, conservation communications, and project management, and collaborate with partner organizations across Kauaʻi. Few early-career positions offer such broad exposure to both field research and applied conservation.

Program Information

This is a 12-month full-time position through Kupu ʻĀina Corps (KAC). Compensation, health benefits, and other program benefits are provided through Kupu and are subject to current program guidelines.