HAWAII FOREST PLOT NETWORK TECHNICIAN: Two temporary (4-5 month) positions with the Botany Department, located at the University of University of Hawaii at Hilo in Hilo, Hawaii. Incumbants will assist in the development of a permanent, mapped forest plot network across striking natural gradients in elevation, precipitation, and soil age. Work as part of a team to set up, tag, and map trees on the permanent forest plots as directed by HIPPNET supervisors.
Positions will be largely field work, and may involve staying in field cabins or camping up to 16 to 20 days/month; working long hours in cold, hot, wet, windy, or dry weather; driving on rough, poorly marked, rocky, dusty, and muddy roads; navigating with GPS units, compasses, and maps; staying safe in remote areas by using caution and good judgment; accurately collecting and recording large amounts of data, accurately identifying tropical plants, and maintaining good work relations with other members of the field team. These jobs will also involve working in some of the most beautiful and pristine forests of Hawaii, spending evenings under the stars, experiencing cultural and biological diversity, seeing striking elevation and climatic gradients on Hawaiis youngest island, hearing tropical birds sing, and working with a great bunch of ecologists who are committed to conservation and preservation of Hawaiis native ecosystems. Work hours will vary during employment. The incumbents may work long hours, beginning early in the morning and ending late at night. Schedule may be altered due to inclement weather, plant phenology, vehicle maintenance, or logistic reasons. The work will involve long hours spent standing, bending, walking, and a great amount of physical exertion. The incumbent may be required to lift containers weighing up to 35 pounds. Work may include travel to and/or extended stay on Oahu and/or Kauai. Possibility of continued employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, and availability of funds. Initial hourly wage will be up to $10/hour depending on qualifications. Minimum Qualifications: Coursework should include classes in the biological sciences which could include Biology, Botany, Ecology, Environmental Science, or other Biological discipline. Previous field and/or laboratory experience collecting biological data. Basic knowledge of the principles of plant ecology. Basic computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Excel. Valid drivers license. Ability to work effectively and positively as a member of a larger team. Willingness and ability to work long field hours in rugged terrain under inclement weather conditions. Desirable Qualifications: Bachelors Degree in progress or completed from an accredited college or university in a biological field. Knowledge of botany and/or Hawaiian ecosystems. Experience using field geographic information systems (GIS) and ArcMap software. Experience driving on forest roads and using a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Demonstrated commitment to the preservation of biological diversity. Inquiries: Lisa Ellsworth (808) 933-8121 ext 156 or [EMAIL PROTECTED] Application Requirements: Send cover letter, resume, and names, phone numbers and addresses of three supervisory references and copy of degree (s)/transcripts to qualify for position by email ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) or postal mail to Lisa Ellsworth, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, 60 Nowelo Street, Hilo, HI 96720 before application closing date. Application review will begin immediately. Closing Date: June 22, 2007 Preferred Start Date: July 2, 2007 (may be negotiable) EEO/AA Employer.
