Job Details

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

HAL INVASIVE ANT JUNIOR RESEARCH SPECIALIST – ID# 225423. 

CLOSING DATE: August 28, 2025. INQUIRIES:  Michelle Montgomery 808-443-7617 (Hawai‘i). 

Regular, Full-Time, Limited-Term (not to exceed two (2) years in duration from date of hire), RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Hawai‘i Ant Lab (HAL), located in Hilo, 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:  $5,286/Mon. 

DUTIES:  The program`s mission is to protect agriculture, people, and the environment of Hawai‘i from the introduction of new invasive ant species, to prevent or reduce the spread of existing ant species and to eradicate infestations where this is feasible. Works as part of a small team to provide quality research-related outcomes that benefit the mitigation and prevention of impacts related to invasive ants in Hawai`i and the broader Pacific region. Plans and implements laboratory and field experiments, ecological studies in various habitats and terrains, and coordinates collection of data. Analyzes research results and compiles these into reports, action plans, or management plans. Allocates appropriate resources, and monitors outcomes to ensure correct procedures are being followed. Expected outcomes of the program include enhanced awareness of invasive ant issues and development of new and novel solutions to control the invasive species for people, industry, and natural resource managers. Drives to project sites during travel.

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: 

EDUCATION

Bachelor`s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Biology, Entomology, or a related field.

EXPERIENCE

Three to five (3-5) years of experience in a related biological or toxicological field.

KNOWLEDGE

Strong knowledge of invasive ant biology, behavior, and invertebrate toxicology.

ABILITIES & SKILLS

Strong abilities in Hawai`i ant taxonomy, planning, and data collection/analysis. Strong abilities with scientific equipment including microscopes, personal computers (PCs), and associated scientific software. 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 Condition: 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 and maintain the certificate following the training provided within three (3) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment.

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS

Some fieldwork may require traversing hazardous areas including steep and rocky topography and thick vegetation.

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 with aerial operations involving cargo loading and personnel. Climbing experience.

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.