Temporary Researcher - HI Field Technicians, Zoology & Physiology

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JOB TITLE:

Field Technician

JOB PURPOSE:

We are seeking technicians to work on a research project on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi as part of the Hawaiʻi V.I.N.E. (Vertebrate Introductions and Novel Ecosystems) project, a collaboration across multiple universities (UH Mānoa, UW, NAU, and UIUC) that began in 2014. The project is investigating temporal changes in seed dispersal and how removal of dominant invasive plants alters seed dispersal in mesic and wet forest ecosystems. Native species extinctions and non-native species introductions have dramatically changed the forest species composition. Although many native plants depend on birds for seed dispersal, on Oʻahu there are no longer any native frugivorous birds to provide this function. Instead, a suite of non-native birds are dispersing seeds. Additionally, invasive plants often dominate seed dispersal networks with impacts to native plant seed dispersal. Understanding temporal changes and how removal of invasive plant species impacts seed dispersal is critically important for restoration efforts.

There are multiple positions open with starting dates spanning August to October, with a six-month commitment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Basic duties include: (1) Invasive plant removal, (2) measuring fruit abundance and vegetation characteristics, (3) performing point counts for bird abundance, (4) deploying game cameras, and (5) bird behavioral observations.

Additional duties will include: (1) ensuring accurate and consistent data recording and entry, (2) maintenance of field equipment, (3) helping organize data streams, and (4) participating in team meetings and contributing to project planning and adjustments. Additionally, applicants will be expected to participate in regular (at least monthly) outreach and education events related to the project.

The candidate(s) selected for this position will work on a field crew of 6-9 people including other technicians, crew leader, and graduate students. Technicians must be able to work early mornings in rugged terrain in challenging field conditions. Fieldwork will involve long days of hiking and temperamental weather conditions. This is a full-time position and technicians will receive effective compensation of $16/hour, plus shared access to vehicles and the option to live in crew housing. Further details will be provided during interviews. Applicants will be responsible for their flights to/from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu, Hawaii.

COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to Learn
• Safety Awareness
• Consistency
• Teamwork & Cooperation

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum: A bachelor's degree in biology, natural resources, wildlife management, botany, ecology or a related field and field experience pertaining to wildlife biology or botany are required.
• Applicants must be responsible, organized, and comfortable living and working as a team.
• An enthusiasm for research and fieldwork is essential, as well as patience and a strong work ethic.
• Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with the Driving for University Business SAP.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Preference will be given to applicants with experience in tropical ecosystems, plant ecology, and/or a demonstrated knowledge of Hawaiian plants.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS:

Complete the online application. The department additionally requests candidates upload the following document(s) for a complete application:

1. Cover letter
2. Resume or C.V.
3. Contact information for three work-related references (email & phone) (references will only be contacted if you are selected as a finalist for the position).

Applications for this round of hiring will not be accepted after June 4, 2026. In your cover letter, please specify your desired start date. Include details of any prior experience in point counts and experience with plant identification and/or systematic vegetation surveys.

For questions, please email us at vine.hawaii@gmail.com.