Do you care deeply about Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems and enjoy working with people? We’re hiring a temporary team member to support our efforts to detect, contain, and prevent the spread of the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) on Hawaiʻi Island.
Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Outreach & Field Associate (9-month term)
In this unique, 9-month term position, you’ll help BIISC respond to one of Hawaiʻi’s most pressing invasive species threats. The Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Outreach & Field Associate will assist with field detection efforts, engage the public through community outreach, and support data collection and reporting. You’ll work closely with the public and partner agencies to raise awareness, encourage community action, and assist in monitoring and detection of this serious pest.
This position blends field work (including surveys, trap checks, and palm inspections) with community engagement at outreach events, presentations, and school visits. Applicants should be comfortable speaking with diverse audiences, able to conduct physical fieldwork in challenging environments, and passionate about protecting Hawaiʻi’s natural and agricultural resources.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct field operations following established CRB response protocols, including palm inspections, trap monitoring, and field surveys
- Operate GPS units, input and update data, and produce maps to guide field activities
- Assist with public relations activities and events and attains favorable public relations with property owners and other members of the public
- Position requires a flexible work schedule including early morning and late night hours and occasional weekends.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including comfort with public speaking
- Ability to work outdoors in hot or rainy conditions, traverse uneven terrain, and lift up to 40 lbs
- Basic understanding of invasive species issues in Hawaiʻi
- Basic computer skills (Google Drive, data entry)
- Experience with community outreach, education, or natural resource fieldwork preferred
- Valid driver’s license and willingness to drive a project vehicle
Pay is $3,400/month with paid holidays, sick time, and benefits. For more details about duties, requirements, and secondary qualifications, please read the full job description on the RCUH website (If the link doesn’t work, search for job #225248). You must submit all required documents online by 11:59 P.M. HST on the closing date. If you have any questions, please contact Molly Murphy at 808-933-3340.
Why Join Us?
Working at BIISC is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to Hawaiʻi’s natural environment and gain valuable fieldwork experience. You will play a critical role in protecting native ecosystems and preserving Hawaiʻi’s biodiversity. You will have the opportunity to work with a dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about their work and committed to making a positive impact. We offer competitive compensation, opportunities for professional growth and advancement, and a supportive work environment that values teamwork, safety, and a love for ʻāina and community.
Deadline to apply: May 27, 2025
Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on Job Postings. Search for job #225248. You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Supervisory 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 the RCUH system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_employment@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 this link for more information on RCUH’s Benefits for eligible employees.
