Research Associate (Rare Snail Conservation Biologist, 0077502T)

University of Hawaii•Honolulu, HI

7d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a temporary, annually renewable position focused on leading the strategic planning, implementation, and adaptive management of a rare snail management program. The role involves coordinating with various stakeholders, overseeing program logistics, designing and directing fieldwork, and managing data. The position requires a strong understanding of rare snail management in island ecosystems, relevant laws, and the ability to conduct research and engage in interagency collaboration. The role also includes staff training, safety enforcement, and potentially working in high-risk environments such as UXO-affected areas or performing helicopter missions.

Requirements

Possession of a baccalaureate degree in Biological Science, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, or related field and three (3) years of progressively responsible professional experience with natural resource management of biological resources, including two (2) years of experience in rare snail management; or any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience.
Considerable working knowledge of principles, practices and techniques in the area of rare snail management in island ecosystems.
Considerable working knowledge and understanding of applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and theories and systems associated with the Endangered Species Act and environmental laws.
Demonstrated ability to resolve wide ranging complex problems through the use of creative reasoning and logic.
Demonstrated ability to interpret and present information and ideas clearly and accurately in writing, verbally and by preparation of reports and other materials.
Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team leaders and members, and individuals.
Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer, apply word processing software, and proficiency including but not limited to: Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint or other presentation software; software for statistical analysis and graphing; and ArcGIS or other geospatial database software.
Strong verbal and written communication, organizational, and project management skills.
Knowledge of Hawaiian snails, particularly rare and endangered species, including ecology, biology, natural history, identification, threats, monitoring, handling techniques, and management strategies.
Familiarity with predator resistant snail exclosure management.
Demonstrated working knowledge of natural resource management strategies and techniques, native ecosystems, ecosystem threats, native and invasive flora and fauna, including small vertebrate and invertebrate pests and their control techniques.
Knowledge of trial and experimental design principles.
Established proficiency in terrain navigation utilizing maps, compasses, and GPS.
Required to complete a Department of Defense (DoD) security check for employment as an Army contractor.
Must possess Certification in First Aid/CPR or be able to obtain the certificate within three (3) months of hire.
Must be able to complete helicopter safety courses within six (6) months from date of hire.
Must be able to obtain and maintain State of Hawai‘i Certification for Application of Restricted Use Pesticides within six (6) months from date of hire.
Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire.
Must complete Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Training within six (6) months from date of hire.
If selected for chainsaw use, must be able to complete chainsaw training within twelve (12) months from date of hire.
If selected for rope work, must be able to complete rope work training course within twelve (12) months from date of hire.
Requires a valid U.S. driver’s license and the ability to drive a four-wheel-drive vehicle in various conditions.
Ability to hike up to six (6) miles per day with a 35-pound backpack, camp in rugged terrain and in remote areas for up to four (4) days at a time, and conduct work under strenuous outdoor conditions.
Required to comply with all applicable RCUH, University of Hawai‘i, and business entity policies, procedures, and training as a condition of employment.
Must be able to work a non-standard work schedule.

Nice To Haves

Education and experience in programs managing rare and endangered species and ecosystems on Army lands in Hawai‘i.
Knowledge of Department of the Army natural resources programs in general and the policies and organizational contexts within which they are managed, especially safety and logistical requirements necessary to plan field operations around Army training schedules.
Familiarity with integrative techniques used to inventory, assess, and monitor natural resource assets, environmental impacts and their interrelationships.
Familiarity with biological database application and maintenance.
Demonstrated experience with rare snail management in Hawai’i.
Expertise in taxonomy and identification of native Hawaiian land snails.
Familiarity with photo-identification software.
Experience in carpentry or construction.
Experience building and managing electrical systems.
Knowledge of plants found in Hawai’i, including both native and invasive taxa.
Working knowledge of rare and federally listed Hawaiian plants, vertebrates, and invertebrates.
Familiarity with working under federal and state permitting requirements for endangered invertebrates.

Responsibilities

Leads the strategic planning, implementation, and adaptive management of ANRPO’s rare snail management program.
Coordinates with program managers, coordinators, field supervisors, biologists, and specialists on rare snail program projects, initiatives, management plans, and actions.
Ensures actions are scheduled and reviewed with field teams.
Oversees the rare snail program logistics, including scheduling, gear and supply inventory, purchasing, facilities maintenance, data collection, and ensuring successful action completion.
Designs and directs rare snail program activities.
Develops innovative techniques, monitoring protocols, and management strategies.
Implements, monitors, and provides oversight for fieldwork initiatives focusing on rare snail management, related predator control, and snail exclosure maintenance.
Directs staff on relevant field actions.
Oversees and conducts staff training on critical rare snail management and threat control practices and actions.
Provides oversight, mentorship, and technical support for field teams, technicians, and temporary staff.
Manages and analyzes rare snail management data to monitor program effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and ensure data accuracy.
Ensures the accuracy, quality, and timeliness of programmatic deliverables, including reports and presentations.
Manages workflows to meet deadlines and stakeholder expectations.
Oversees research, development, and adaptive management initiatives to continually enhance rare snail management.
Conducts and manages experimental trials, distributing key findings through publications.
Engages in interagency collaboration and coordination to inform, innovate, and implement shared conservation strategies.
Leads and supports staff development activities, such as education days and hands-on training.
Reviews, revises, and enforces safety practices and standard operating procedures.
Conducts operations in UXO-affected areas, supports helicopter missions, and may perform other high-risk tasks.
Other duties as assigned.