Research Associate, Environmental Science, Environmental Protection

The University of Hawaii System is hiring a full-time Research Associate for the Environmental Protection program in Honolulu, HI. The role involves implementing invasive and native animal programs, conducting fieldwork, and supporting project planning and execution. Candidates should have a degree in Biological Sciences or related fields and experience in natural resource management. The position is temporary and contingent on funding and performance.
TitleResearch Associate (Animal Program Technician)Position Number0077546THiring UnitOffice of the Vice President for Research and Innovation (OVPRI), Army Natural Resource Program on O‘ahu (ANRPO)SalaryCommensurate with education and experience; 1 position available.Employment StatusFull‑time; temporary (annually renewable contingent upon satisfactory performance and/or availability of funding).Duties and ResponsibilitiesImplement invasive animal program actions in the field under the direction of the Animal Program Coordinator. Work includes fence clearing, construction, inspection, materials staging, and repair; contract oversight; maintenance of predator exclusion enclosures; conduct ungulate, small vertebrate, and forest pest control; develop novel tools; trail clearing; GPS mapping.Implement native rare animal program actions in the field under the direction of the Animal Program Coordinator. Survey and monitor rare animals such as snails, birds, bats, sea turtles, monk seals, and other arthropods using best practices.Support project planning, execution, and review. Schedule logistics, lead projects, train junior staff and volunteers.Adhere to safety standards and SOPs. Participate in training, wear PPE, conduct risk assessments, report incidents.Apply pesticides safely. Follow environmental compliance and safety regulations.Support Animal Team operations. Document field work, collect and analyze data, maintain field gear, inventory supplies, review actions, collaborate with partners.Contribute to protocol improvement and research. Explore new technologies, conduct experimental trials.Generate program deliverables. Produce internal/external reports, management plans, presentations, permit applications, and pesticide‑usage documentation.Respond to Army installation requests. Survey, map, monitor, employ control methods, develop new techniques, collect data, prepare reports.Assist USAG-HI Integrated Pest Management Coordinator with pesticide reporting.Execute advanced independent projects. Lead complex operations, design trials, develop new control methods, conduct data analysis, prepare analytical reports with recommendations.Support general ANRPO field operations, including rare plant management, invasive plant management, and field projects.Conduct operations in UXO‑affected areas, support helicopter missions, and perform high‑risk tasks while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.Other duties as assigned.Minimum Qualifications Possession of a baccalaureate degree in Biological Sciences, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, or related field and two (2) years of progressively responsible professional experience with natural resource management of native or invasive animals in island ecosystems; or an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesFunctional knowledge of principles, practices, and techniques in natural resource management of terrestrial rare, endangered, common, and invasive animals.Functional knowledge of federal and state laws, including the Endangered Species Act and environmental laws.Ability to recognize problems, identify causes, and resolve problems in natural resource management.Proficiency in reading, writing, and communicating reports and procedures.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships internally and externally.Proficiency with Microsoft Office, statistical analysis software, and ArcGIS or similar geospatial software.Supplemental Minimum Qualifications Functional knowledge of invasive animal identification, biology, and natural history; and natural resource management strategies for invasive animals.Functional knowledge of rare animal identification and management techniques.Familiarity with pesticide use, handling, reporting, and safety protocols.General knowledge of invasive plant management, rare plant management, and habitat monitoring.Functional knowledge of Hawai‘i’s native ecosystems, biota, endangered species, and threats.Strong verbal and written communication, organization, and record‑keeping skills.Familiarity with terrain navigation using maps, compasses,…