Research Associate (pos #81849T)

University of Hawaii•Various, HI

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Pacific Biosciences Research Center (PBRC) is seeking a Research Associate for the Volcano Rare Plant Facility. This is a full-time, 11-month temporary position starting approximately August 2026. The role involves assisting in the propagation and cultivation of native Hawaiian plant species, some of which are rare, threatened, or endangered. The position requires the ability to make decisions in the absence of the Horticulturalist, adhere to DLNR policies, prepare reports, maintain plants in the greenhouse, germinate seeds, manage pests, and conduct out-planting activities. Other duties may include basic maintenance of greenhouses and environs.

Requirements

Possession of a baccalaureate degree in Agriculture or Horticulture and 0 year(s) of progressively responsible professional experience with responsibilities for propagating native Hawaiian plant species and out-planting ; or any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience which provides the required education, knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated.
Functional knowledge of principles, practices and techniques in native Hawaiian plant propagation and out-planting demonstrated by knowledge, understanding and ability to apply concepts, terminology.
Functional knowledge and understanding of principles, theories, federal and state laws, rules, regulations and systems associated with native Hawaiian plant propagation and out-planting.
Demonstrated ability to recognize problems, identify possible causes and resolve the full range problems that may commonly occur in the area of native Hawaiian plant propagation and out-planting.
Demonstrated ability to understand oral and written documentation, write reports and procedures, and communicate effectively in a variety of situations.
Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team members and individuals.
Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer and apply word processing software.
Some knowledge of Federally listed Native Hawaiian rare, threatened or endangered plants.
Some knowledge and experience in successfully propagating native Hawaiian plant species.
Some basic understanding and knowledge of Federal and State endangered species laws and guidelines used to maintain DLNR permit compliance at VRPPF governed by these laws/guidelines.
Coursework, knowledge and skills in horticultural practices and research, including but not limited to horticultural science, plant propagation, plant pathology, soils/fertilizers, weed science, integrated pest management, etc.
Basic knowledge of the principles of plant propagation, irrigation, pest control and safe application of pesticides and fertilizer.
Knowledge of pesticide mixing, application, use and safety.
Knowledge of greenhouse and horticultural procedures and methods.
Able to conduct field work (i.e. hike, camp, etc.) in remote and/or severe environmental conditions for up to five days carrying 30-50lbs of equipment/supplies, unassisted, to collect plant specimens and/or for out-planting.
Must have access to a personal vehicle and possess a valid driver¿s license, maintained throughout the duration of employment(i.e. for out-planting activities, etc.).
Must be able to complete Medical Clearance for Respirator Use and pass annual Respirator Fit Test.
Must be willing and able to work a flexible schedule to occasionally work on holidays and/or weekends to cover greenhouse duties for holidays, which fall on Monday and/or Friday.

Nice To Haves

One year of experience in greenhouse or nursery work involving rare, threatened and/or endangered plants.
Prior working experience and knowledge of Native Hawaiian plant species and weed species.
Familiarity with Federal and State endangered species laws and guidelines.
Familiarity and understanding in effectively using Global Positioning Systems (GPS).

Responsibilities

Assists staff Horticulturalist in the propagation and cultivation of native Hawaiian plant species, some of which may be Federally listed as rare, threatened or endangered.
In absence of Horticulturalist, must be able to make decisions that mitigate problems that may occur involving the survival of the cultivated plants.
Abides by all Department of Land & Natural Resources(DLNR) policies/procedures/rules/regulations/conditions/understandings, as specified on the Natural Area Reserve, Rare Plant & Native Invertebrate Research Permit.
Prepares reports of project accomplishments and problems.
Maintains plants in the greenhouse.
Germinates seeds collected from plants in the wild or from plants propagated in the greenhouse.
Manages insect and pathogegn pests using a respirator.
Drives from facility to perform out-planting activities(out-plant greenhouse-propagated plants into natural ecosystems;decontaminates plants;monitors plants for growth/survival;nurtures plants on site;assist w/seed collection/cuttings for propagation).
Assist with basic maintenance and/or minor repair of greenhouses and environs.
Other duties as assigned.