Job Details

Please apply directly on the RCUH website to be considered for the position.

RESTORATION MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST – ID# 225310. 

CLOSING DATE: July 9, 2025. INQUIRIES:  PCSU HR 808-956-3932 (Maui). 

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Mauna Kahālāwai Watershed Partnership (MKWP), located in Olowalu, Maui, Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. 

MONTHLY SALARY:  $4,536/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Implements field projects ranging from assisted restoration of existing forest cover and active restoration of highly degraded forests.  Conducts, organizes, and leads field-based seed collection, propagation, out-planting, and long-term post planting maintenance needs. Schedules, plans, and arranges MKWP field team logistics, project documentation, and partner interactions for restoration projects. Assists MKWP Program Manager and Operations Manager in developing the MKWP Restoration Management Plan and implements restoration activities with partnership members and collaborators.  Responsible for the development and implementation of action plans for restoration with an emphasis on stabilization of watershed vegetation communities within specific management areas. Restoration will focus on recovery of areas impacted due to environmental factors including human impacts, feral ungulates, disease, wildfire and erosion to improve forest integrity and functions in terms of hydrology, fresh and marine water quality, soil stabilization, native species habitat, and climate change.  Plans, recommends and directs field activities related to seed collection, nursery management/contract propagation, out-planting, and site restoration.  Establishes monitoring of site resources related to recovery and documents recovery via data collection, GIS, photography and other methods for reporting. Coordinates and plans field and other watershed conservation activities with MKWP staff, partners, volunteers, and contractors. Develops and implements other projects as assigned by the MKWP Manager. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: 

EDUCATION

Bachelor`s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Natural Resource Management, Biological Science, or Environmental Science with basic/related biology/natural resources courses. (High School Diploma or G.E.D equivalent and at least four (4) years of related natural resources/conservation experience may substitute for a Bachelor`s Degree).

EXPERIENCE

Two to four (2-4) years of work experience in natural resource related field.  At least one (1) year experience with restoration projects. At least one (1) year of supervisory or professional leadership experience. Experience must be paid and well-documented (include dates and hours/week).

KNOWLEDGE

Strong working knowledge of and expertise in field work techniques, logistical planning, data collection/management, and ecosystem monitoring protocols. Possesses some knowledge of techniques in seed collection, and native plant propagation. Must possess knowledge of Hawaiian flora and fauna, with  strong skills in native Hawaiian and alien plant identification. Must be  able to identify rare native Hawaiian plants. Possesses an  understanding of general nursery management, such as proper sanitation and the adjustment of environmental conditions to ensure optimal plant growth. Knowledge of watershed and island ecosystem processes, environmental impacts requiring restoration, incipient alien plant and animal invasions, and wildfire ecology. Working knowledge of herbicide use and weed control techniques.

ABILITIES & SKILLS

Skilled in restoration methods and able to adapt knowledge to various environments. Ability to observe site microclimates, site characteristics, and measure variability to inform restoration processes.  Able to apply  horticultural methods and practices, including plant propagation and cultivation, integrated pest management, fertilization, seed collection and storage, and irrigation. Must be highly organized and able to keep accurate and up-to-date records of activities, projects, plant material inventory, nursery inventory, etc. Must be proficient in (ArcGIS) and GPS. Must be proficient in MS Word, database management and  Excel spreadsheet functions. Must be capable of accurately entering data, performing statistical and spatial data analysis, and creating maps for use in reports, presentations, and field activities. Familiarity with other Microsoft Office software. Ability to communicate orally and in writing and to comprehend complex verbal and written instructions. Ability to read topography maps and aerial photographs, and use altimeter and compass and other navigational tools. 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 operate a 4-wheel drive vehicle with manual transmission. Ability to safely operate power tools including chainsaws, augers, weed eaters, generators, chipper, etc. Post Offer/Employment Condition:   Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course within  three (3) months of hire. Must be able to complete helicopter external load training, rappelling training, chainsaw training, and Wilderness First Aid training within twelve (12) months from date of hire based on availability of training. Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee`s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals. Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain   within three (3) months of hire).

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS

Ability to hike and camp in remote areas and rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions at high elevations, up to three (3) consecutive days. Able to backpack and lift and carry up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted.

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 managing threats to native Hawaiian ecosystems.   Field experience  managing at risk ecosystems in Hawai‘i, with emphasis on   site restoration and alien plant control.  Experience planning surveys, project design, and data analysis.  Previous experience with a watershed or natural area protection program. Experience restoring forests in burned, highly eroded and drought prone areas.

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.

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.