Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP) located in Hanapepe, Kauai. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. 

DUTIES:  Leads planning, organization, and implementation of research, monitoring, and management projects on Kauai for the benefit of native forest birds, with particular focus on threatened and endangered forest bird species. Performs and coordinates all project activities including research, conservation management, field work and logistics, budget tracking, regulatory compliance. Liaises with partners to facilitate research activities, ex situ conservation, control of introduced species and/or habitat restoration in study areas. Recruits and provides oversight, instruction, and guidance for a team of up to ten (10) members (including staff, interns, and volunteers). Produces annual work plans and reports for submission. Ensures that proper environmental compliance documentation is prepared for all projects and that all permits and regulatory approvals and permits are obtained. Coordinates and performs analysis of field data with guidance from Program Manager. With Program Manager, develops proposal budgets and writes grant proposals. Carries out routine awareness-raising events to ensure ongoing project funding. May travel to other islands for site visits and fieldwork. Drives to project activities and field work locations. 

EDUCATION

Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Biological Sciences, Natural Resource Management, Biological Conservation, or related field. (Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university and at least two (2) years of additional experience in conservation of endangered avian species may substitute for a Master’s Degree.).

EXPERIENCE

Three to five (3-5) years of experience conducting biological research, ornithology, invasive species management, or conservation management. Experience includes one-three (1-3) years of experience mist-netting, banding and taking blood samples from passerines; conducting surveys of plants and animals; and  locating and monitoring bird nests. Experience includes one to two (1-2) years of supervisory or team oversight/leading experience.

KNOWLEDGE

Detailed knowledge of the principles and techniques of conservation management, remote field operations, and avian species biology. Working knowledge of natural history relevant to native Hawaiian wildlife, or similar environments. Working knowledge of native Hawaiian ecosystems, native Hawaiian plants and wildlife, or similar environments. Detailed knowledge of techniques used to inventory and monitor wildlife, and other natural resource assets, including experimental design and data analysis. Working knowledge of rules and regulations relating to field operations, and pertinent laws, regulations, licensing and permitting requirements related to program. Knowledge of management principles including, but not limited to, supervising/developing employees, EEO, workplace safety, corrective/disciplinary actions, and administration of policies and procedures.

ABILITIES & SKILLS

Strong organizational ability to plan, lead, and execute logistically complex field operations. Strong ability to solve logistical problems and innovate solutions related to biological threats. Ability to lead a field crew and work as a team member for safe and efficient field operations. Ability to maintain a positive professional attitude in support of a productive work environment. Must have excellent communication and program management skills. Ability to perform and coordinate data analysis and present findings and recommendations in written report format. Ability to estimate costs associated with complex projects and to project budget requirements for future program needs. Proficient use of Microsoft Office word processing and spreadsheet programs, databases (e.g. Access), GIS (e.g., AGOL), and statistical software (e.g. R or SAS). 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. Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR. Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course (A100) and external sling load (A219) course within twelve (12) months from date of hire and become certified as a PCSU Helicopter Manager when training is offered. 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

Must be able to conduct fieldwork in dense vegetation and remote areas under difficult conditions (e.g., heat, rain, cold temperatures, poor footing). Must be able to hike over difficult terrain and long distances of eight to ten (8-10) miles with a backpack weighing up to forty (40) pounds unassisted. Must be able to work around and fly in approved helicopters.

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:    

Management, public relations, and administration skills. Proven grant writing and fund-raising abilities. Demonstrated ability in publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers. Experience coordinating with land managers in Hawai‘i. Expertise in database design and management. Experience in reintroduction or translocation, or founding of captive populations of passerine birds.  High level of experience in banding in order to qualify for Bird Banding Laboratory (BBL) subpermit to band and take blood from threatened and endangered passerines. Aviculture skills, including husbandry and fluid administration. Experience monitoring animal movements using radio-tracking.