Invasive Species Field Crew Leader (BIISC Plant Control)

University of Hawaii System Office

5d•$4,071 - $4,071

About The Position

Invasive Species Field Crew Leader (BIISC Plant Control) ID225755 Project Name Pacific Coop Studies Unit Posted Date12/29/2025 Closing Date02/09/2026 FTE100.0% Compensation$4071.00-$4071.00/Month StateHawaii IslandHawaii Job Summary Job postings are removed from the RCUH Job Openings site once the recruitment process has ended. Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), working for an island-based Invasive Species Committee (Big Island) 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: $4,071/Mon. DUTIES: Assumes responsibility for leading one of the following invasive species program elements: (1) Rapid Ohia Death, (2) Albizia, or (3) Plant Control. Leads teams in conducting field operations to implement established action plans targeting invasive alien plant and animal species for control or eradication. Fieldwork involves reconnaissance, surveys, and mechanical/chemical removal for invasive alien species in natural, urban, and suburban areas. Fieldwork includes off trail areas where exposure to extreme hot and cold temperatures, heavy rainfall, mosquitoes, and difficult terrain is common. Implements protocol to prevent seed dispersal, follows decontamination protocols, and conducts all operations according to accepted safety standards and established protocols. Fieldwork requires the ability to drive project vehicles both on and off road, work in and around helicopters, and handle pesticides. Assists in setting goals and priorities for field operations, scheduling and deploying crews, coordinating logistics, and evaluating field staff. Trains field staff and assures quality control for all field operations. Oversees the collection of accurate and detailed records of treatment and control work. Operates a Global Positioning System (GPS) and downloads GPS units. Inputs and updates data and produces maps and other materials to guide daily field activities. Oversees maintenance of equipment/field gear, vehicles, and project baseyard, including proper storage of herbicides. Assists with public relations activities and events, and attains favorable public relations with property owners and other members of the public. Contributes to creating and preserving a positive work environment and serves as a valued member of the field team. Regular overnight travel to other field sites, which may involve camping for up to four (4) nights, may be required. For internal progression from an Invasive Species Field Associate II or III to Invasive Species Crew Leader depends on a demonstrated ability to meet established performance factors and project specific competencies, including satisfactory completion of all required trainings, and ability to assume supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

EDUCATION: High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
EXPERIENCE: Three to five (3-5) years of experience in field activities related to natural resources management.
KNOWLEDGE: Thorough knowledge of all established performance factors and project-specific competencies.
Knowledge of Hawaiian natural history and the basic elements of invasion biology.
Knowledge of field activities related to natural resources management.
Knowledge of identification and detection techniques for all target species and identification of common native species.
Knowledge of mechanical/chemical control techniques for all target species.
Knowledge of basic supervisory principles and techniques for motivating and providing feedback to others.
ABILITIES & SKILLS: Proficient in all abilities and skills outlined in established performance factors and project-specific competencies.
Ability to assume a leadership role for overseeing and training field staff and setting goals.
Ability to make sound planning and logistical decisions, and respond appropriately to shifting operational plans.
Strong analytical problem solving ability.
Good oral and written communication skills and excellent interpersonal communication skills.
Demonstrated proficiency in following project's administrative, operational, and safety protocols including proper use and storage of pesticides and use and maintenance of project gear and equipment.
Ability to accurately collect and store data for target species survey and control activities.
Demonstrated ability to navigate in remote areas with and without a GPS unit.
Mapmaking abilities using ArcGIS.
Ability to appropriately explain project objectives to the public.
Ability and experience working with small, mechanized equipment.
Basic computer skills.
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 drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle with manual transmission.
Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain the certificate following the training provided within three (3) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment.
Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee's initial exposure to hazardous chemicals.
If selected for helicopter transport, must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course (A100) within twelve (12) months from hire and maintain throughout duration of employment.
If required and specified in the agreement to apply pesticides while working on military lands, must obtain and maintain State of Hawai'i Certification for Application of Restricted Use Pesticides prior to activity.
If selected for use of chainsaws, must submit chainsaw training certification to PCSU prior to activity.
If selected for rappelling duties, must submit rappelling training certification to PCSU prior to activity.

Nice To Haves

Ability to identify a wide variety of native and alien plants/animals.
Experience supervising, training, and evaluating employees.

Responsibilities

Leads teams in conducting field operations to implement established action plans targeting invasive alien plant and animal species for control or eradication.
Fieldwork involves reconnaissance, surveys, and mechanical/chemical removal for invasive alien species in natural, urban, and suburban areas.
Implements protocol to prevent seed dispersal, follows decontamination protocols, and conducts all operations according to accepted safety standards and established protocols.
Assists in setting goals and priorities for field operations, scheduling and deploying crews, coordinating logistics, and evaluating field staff.
Trains field staff and assures quality control for all field operations.
Oversees the collection of accurate and detailed records of treatment and control work.
Operates a Global Positioning System (GPS) and downloads GPS units.
Inputs and updates data and produces maps and other materials to guide daily field activities.
Oversees maintenance of equipment/field gear, vehicles, and project baseyard, including proper storage of herbicides.
Assists with public relations activities and events, and attains favorable public relations with property owners and other members of the public.