AVIAN CONSERVATION FIELD TECHNICIAN (multiple positions)

CLOSING DATE: October 26, 2025

Job Type: Seasonal, Full-Time

Duration: February 2026 to July 2026

Location: Alakaʻi Wilderness and Kaumakani, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi

JOB DESCRIPTION: 

Works independently in conjunction with a field crew conducting research and management projects for the recovery of native forest birds on Kauaʻi. Participates in carrying out research activities to determine factors influencing forest bird population dynamics, especially factors limiting populations, and management activities for the recovery of these species. Work is primarily done in the extremely wet, beautiful, and rugged montane rainforest of the Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve, Na Pali Kona Forest Reserve, Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve, Kauaʻi. This position will focus on (1) nest-searching and resighting color-banded ‘akekeʻe, ‘anianiau, and puaiohi, (2) assisting in free standing rope ladder set-ups for nest collections (3) conducting surveys to document distribution, relative abundance, and survival of birds, and (4) maintaining rat-control grids. Assists with mist-netting and banding as well. Assists with mosquito control management tasks. Enters field and Geographic Information System (GIS) data into computer files for information summary and reporting. Helps maintain electronic records and databases. Assists with equipment and vehicle management and maintenance. Participates in conscientious adherence to all safety and research protocols, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

QUALIFICATIONS: 

EDUCATION

Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college.

EXPERIENCE

One to three (1-3) years of (paid or unpaid) experience in biological fieldwork (unpaid experience can include volunteer work or field study, and must be documented and verifiable). Demonstrated experience working in remote areas.

KNOWLEDGE

Proficient knowledge of the principles of avian population ecology and conservation.

ABILITIES & SKILLS

Applicants must be able to detect and identify birds by sight and sound, be physically fit, and able to navigate rugged and complex terrain off-trail with compass, map, and GPS. Experience with mist-netting, banding, color-band re-sighting, camera trapping, nest searching, behavioral observation, territory mapping, small mammal trapping, and plant and insect sampling is strongly desired. Applicants will be assisting with nest collections which require carrying a 40ft ladder through dense vegetation as a team, planning complex rope set-ups to suspend the ladder, and raising the ladder in a safe manner – prior experience with rope rigging and knot tying is desired.

Mechanical and electronics skills and current First Aid and CPR certifications are a plus. Abundant enthusiasm for conserving Hawaii’s native species (including controlling invasive species along the way) is essential, as are self-motivation, the ability to work well in a small team, and a positive attitude. When not in the field, office duties will include data entry and management, maintenance of field equipment, and other work around the office. Must have proficient ability to enter and manipulate data using spreadsheets and databases. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

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 safely drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle on unimproved roads.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to hike up to eight (8) miles on obscure trails with up to fifty (50) pounds unassisted. Must be able to live and conduct fieldwork with other crew members in isolated field camps under inclement weather conditions for up to ten (10) days at a time on a regular basis. May require strenuous physical exertion and heavy lifting.

POST OFFER/EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS

Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course (A100) within three (3) months from date of hire. Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee’s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals. Must possess the American Red Cross Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain and maintain the certificate following the training provided within three (3) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment.

COMPENSATION

$3553/month. Housing when not in the field will not be provided, but we will assist in finding housing. Successful applicants must provide own travel to Lihue, Kaua’i, have a valid driver license, and be legally eligible to work in the U.S.

TO APPLY

Applications will be accepted until October 26th, 2025 and will be reviewed as they are received. Required materials include a cover letter, current CV, transcript, and contact information for three references. Please email applications to puaiohijobs AT gmail.com