OPEN POSITIONS:

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Job Title: KFBRP Avicultural Specialist

Job Type: Seasonal with possibility of extension

Opportunity location: Alaka’i Wilderness and Kaumakani, Kaua’i, Hawai’i

AVICULTURAL SPECIALIST needed for work with the Kaua’i Forest Bird Recovery Project. Position will last from mid-September – end December 2026, with possibility of extension. The project focuses capturing rapidly declining endemic Hawaiian songbirds to build ex situ populations through conservation breeding and translocation to other islands. This position will be responsible for providing the highest standards of avian husbandry in supporting the health and well-being of the captive birds (adults, nestlings, and eggs) during capture and transfer to temporary facilities on Kaua’i and onwards to facilities on Oahu, Maui and Hawaii islands. The work is physically challenging, requiring a 4-5 mile hike to the main field camps by way of steep slopes, tangled forest and stream crossings. Applicants will camp in rustic conditions up to one week at a time, depending on frequency of bird captures, often in rainy and chilly weather. Daily field activities include nest searching and monitoring, mist-netting birds, and collecting eggs and chicks from nests. Daily activities at the temporary facility include cleaning, disinfecting and inspecting cages, incubators and other equipment; providing clean water and fresh food; operating machine incubators and rearing and hand-feeding chicks according to established guidelines; maintaining records; developing and updating protocols; and planning logistics.

Specifically, the incumbent:

• Develops and updates protocols for collecting, transporting, and caring for birds.

• Prepares the field sites and Kauai-based bird facility to receive and care for collected birds and eggs, including setting up tents and cages.

• Procures necessary equipment and supplies, tracks orders and ensures purchasing accuracy.

• Organizes and plans logistics for bird collections and extraction from the field (including scheduling helicopter logistics and personnel).

• Communicates with partners about collection schedules and needs.

• Makes travel arrangements and completes travel reports (authorization, completion) for staff accompanying collected birds.

• Takes part in the capture of adult birds, collects and transports birds, eggs and nestlings from nests to field and temporary facilities, and prepares them for onward travel to permanent facilities.

• Attends to captive individual rare birds, eggs, and chicks in the field and at temporary facilities.

• Provides emergency veterinary care to sick or injured captured birds in the field or at temporary facilities, including administration of oxygen or fluids.

• Maintains accurate and timely records and helps compile field data and maps for planning and reports.

• Performs research to determine factors limiting successful translocation of forest birds, including monitoring breeding and foraging behavior and nest behavior.

• Takes a leadership role with logistical planning of field trips and field camps, including vehicle and equipment maintenance. Trains staff in avian species collection and invasive species prevention protocols and ensures adherence.

Applicants must:

• be physically fit, and able to navigate rugged and complex terrain using GPS, compass, and maps, and ride in helicopters.

• have prior experience caring for small passerines, including operating incubators, handling eggs, and feeding chicks, and administering oxygen, fluids, and medication.

• be able to coordinate field logistics and oversee junior field staff

• be able to develop protocols, collect data and provide simple summary statistics

• be able to work both in a team environment and independently, multitask and prioritize work to meet deadlines, and adapt easily to last minute changes.

• be able to communicate and work effectively with others and understand and give direction.

• be able to accept responsibility and be accountable and make decisions that support the goals of the project.

• be able to implement lethal exotic mammal control

• have independent critical thinking and problem-solving skills to respond appropriately to unexpected wildlife care situations

• be familiar with Microsoft Office and Adobe Suite Software

• have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year university

• possess a valid Driver’s License and be able to travel in helicopters

Compensation is $28.00-$30.50/hr, depending on experience. Costs of health insurance are split by the employee and employer. The successful applicant must provide own travel to Lihue, Kauai and have a valid US drivers license.

Applications will be accepted until August 5, 2026, and will be reviewed as they are received. Required materials include a current resume, cover letter, proof of degree, and contact information for 3 references, emailed to puaiohijobs@gmail.com with the title AVICULTURAL SPECIALIST.

JOB TITLE: Seasonal Mosquito Field Associate/Technician

Hiring 2–3 full-time Field Associates or Technicians to assist with mosquito surveillance and research at the Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP), located in Kaumakani, Kauai, Hawaii. Hire grade and compensation will depend on relevant education and experience. This is a temporary 20-week (5-month) position starting September 1, 2026, with the possibility of extension.

SALARY: $21.00–$23.50/hour depending on education and experience.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Participates in fieldwork on research and management projects for the recovery of Kauai’s threatened and endangered forest birds, with emphasis on surveying, sampling, and controlling Culex mosquitoes to inform management of the threat of avian malaria. Participates in research and management activities to benefit Hawaiian forest birds. Work is done in the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Na Pali Kona Forest Reserve, Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve, and neighboring areas.

Deploys, operates, and maintains mosquito traps at multiple field sites and participates in surveys to document larval distribution. Collects insect samples for further analysis. May assist with mosquito control projects, including the application of Bti larvicide, working in and around helicopters. Occasionally assists with surveys of bird distribution, relative abundance, and survival; and management tasks, including rodent trapping and bird translocation. Enters field and Geographic Information System (GIS) data into computer files for information summary and reporting. Assists with maintaining electronic records and databases. Helps present materials for outreach and environmental education. Assists with equipment and vehicle management and maintenance. Participates in conscientious adherence to all safety and research protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Requires biological fieldwork, which is performed in dense forest areas, sometimes under wet and cool conditions. Requires a high degree of attention to detail for data collection and equipment management, often under difficult field conditions. Works under general supervision of the Mosquito Research/Control Field Supervisor, who provides goals, direction, guidance, and day-to-day field oversight, and delegates responsibility for project completion. May work independently on routine assignments. Occasionally interacts with land managers and cooperators. Maintains good relationships with land managers and cooperators. Requires irregular working hours, with many duties occurring in the early morning and on weekends. Frequent helicopter trips and frequent camping for up to 8 days in remote field sites are required as part of duties. Interacts and communicates (verbally, in written form, or electronically) respectfully and professionally with supervisors, co-workers, and others at all times.

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION: An Associate’s degree from an accredited community college or Bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution is preferred, but applicants with a high school diploma will also be considered.

EXPERIENCE: One to three (1–3) years of (paid or unpaid) experience in biological fieldwork (a B.S. may substitute for up to two years of experience; unpaid experience can include volunteer work or field study and must be documented and verifiable). Experience must include remote fieldwork.

KNOWLEDGE: Working knowledge of the principles of avian population ecology and/or Hawaiian conservation.

ABILITIES & SKILLS: Proficient ability to enter and manipulate data using spreadsheets and databases. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Demonstrated ability to navigate and hike off-trail in dense forest with compass, map, and GPS. Must possess a valid driver’s license (and, if use of a personal vehicle on the job is required, must also have valid personal driver’s insurance equivalent to Hawaiʻi’s No-Fault Driver’s Insurance) and maintain it throughout the duration of employment. Must be able to drive a four-wheel-drive vehicle with manual transmission. Demonstrated ability to safely drive a four-wheel-drive vehicle on unimproved roads.

Post-Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to pass a post-offer criminal background check. Must be able to complete the Basic Helicopter Safety Course (A100) and External Sling Load Course (A219) within six (6) months of the date of hire. Must possess American Red Cross certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain and maintain certification following training provided within three (3) months of the date of hire and maintain it throughout the duration of employment).

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL 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.

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS

Experience surveying birds by sight and sound and sampling plants. Experience working with native Hawaiian flora and fauna, especially Hawaiian forest birds, and familiarity with local conservation issues. Experience sampling insects with traps (e.g., scent lure traps, light traps, and/or CO₂ traps). Experience using mobile data collection applications. Interagency Aviation Training, Helicopter Crewmember, or Helicopter Manager certifications. Possess basic mechanical and electrical skills to assist in maintaining project equipment, field camps, and vehicles.

TO APPLY

Send an email to puaiohijobs@gmail.com with the subject line: Seasonal Mosquito Field Associate.

Please provide a cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three professional references. The application period closes July 31, 2026, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

OTHER NOTES

Unfortunately, we are not able to provide housing. However, we will do our best to help the incoming crew find housing. Residents of Kauai are encouraged to apply.

KUPU Full-Time Field Conservation Associate, Conservation Leadership Development Program (CLDP – AmeriCorps) – Deadline to Apply 9/12

Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP; Kaumakani / Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve / Remote)

Description

The Field Conservation Associate serves as an AmeriCorps member with the Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP), assisting with the recovery of Hawaiʻi’s endangered forest birds while developing leadership skills through environmental stewardship and community service. This position is part of Kupu’s Conservation Leadership Development Program (CLDP), which combines hands-on conservation work with professional development, environmental education, and community engagement.

KFBRP works to conserve three federally endangered forest birds—the ʻakikiki, ʻakekeʻe, and puaiohi—as well as the threatened ʻiʻiwi. These species inhabit the remote, rugged, and exceptionally beautiful montane rainforest of the Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve on Kauaʻi.

Primary duties include assisting project biologists with:

• Endangered forest bird surveys
• Mosquito monitoring and habitat sampling
• Nest searching and nest monitoring
• Predator control and remote camera maintenance
• Mist-netting and bird banding
• Vegetation monitoring
• Data collection and field equipment maintenance

When not conducting fieldwork, members assist with environmental education and community outreach by staffing outreach events, creating educational materials and social media content, assisting with presentations, and supporting general project operations. Throughout the program, members receive extensive mentoring from experienced conservation professionals while developing leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.

Working Conditions

Fieldwork is physically demanding and takes place in remote native rainforest.

Applicants should be prepared to:

• Hike 4–8 miles carrying up to a 50-pound backpack
• Navigate steep, muddy, off-trail terrain
• Camp in remote field camps for approximately seven nights at a time
• Work in cool, wet conditions
• Occasionally travel by helicopter to remote field sites

Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include:

• Associate’s degree or coursework in biology, ecology, wildlife biology, environmental science, natural resources, or a related field
• Previous biological field experience is desirable but not required
• Physical fitness and ability to work in challenging outdoor environments
• Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Passion for environmental stewardship and conserving Hawaiʻi’s native ecosystems

Why Join KFBRP?

This is a rare opportunity to work with one of the world’s most endangered bird communities while living on the island of Kauaʻi. Participants receive individualized mentorship from experienced conservation biologists, gain hands-on experience with endangered species recovery, and contribute directly to preventing the extinction of Hawaiʻi’s native forest birds. Whether your goal is a career in wildlife biology, conservation, or natural resource management, this position provides exceptional field experience while serving Hawaiʻi’s communities and natural resources.

Program Information

This is an 11-month full-time AmeriCorps position through Kupu’s Conservation Leadership Development Program (CLDP). Stipend, education award (if applicable), health benefits, and other program benefits are provided through Kupu and are subject to current program guidelines.

To Apply

Applicants must complete the online application through the Kupu CLDP website and meet all Kupu eligibility requirements, including being legally authorized to work in the United States.

In addition to the Kupu application, please email the following to puaiohijobs@gmail.com:

• Cover letter describing your interest in the position
• Current résumé
• Contact information for three professional references

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KUPU: Full-Time Conservation Research & Outreach Assistant, Kupu ʻĀina Corps (KAC) –  Deadline to Apply 9/12

Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP; Kaumakani / Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve / Remote)

Description

The Conservation Research & Outreach Assistant is a career-development position with the Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project through Kupu ʻĀina Corps (KAC). This position is designed for individuals interested in building a professional career in wildlife conservation, ecological research, and natural resource management. KAC emphasizes technical skill development, professional mentorship, and workforce preparation while providing meaningful conservation experience.

KFBRP works to conserve three federally endangered forest birds—the ʻakikiki, ʻakekeʻe, and puaiohi—as well as the threatened ʻiʻiwi. Participants work alongside professional biologists conducting research and management in Kauaʻi’s remote native forests.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Endangered bird surveys
• Mosquito monitoring and habitat sampling
• Nest searching and monitoring
• Mist-netting and bird banding
• Predator control and remote camera maintenance
• Biological data collection and management
• Equipment maintenance
• Ecological research support

In addition to fieldwork, participants assist with environmental education, conservation communications, social media, educational materials, outreach events, and independent or collaborative research projects. The position provides broad exposure to conservation biology while encouraging participants to develop technical and professional skills that prepare them for future careers.

Working Conditions

Fieldwork is conducted in remote rainforest environments requiring:

• Hiking up to 8 miles carrying a 50-pound backpack
• Off-trail navigation through dense native forest
• Multi-day camping in remote field camps
• Work during occasional evenings or weekends for outreach events
• Occasional helicopter access to remote field sites

Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include:

• Associate’s degree or higher in biology, wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• Experience identifying birds by sight and sound
• Experience with wildlife surveys, nest monitoring, GPS navigation, mist-netting, telemetry, camera trapping, or related techniques
• Familiarity with GIS, Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, databases, or similar software
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and in a small team
• Strong interest in pursuing a career in conservation or natural resource management

Why Join KFBRP?

This position offers exceptional preparation for a career in conservation biology. Participants receive one-on-one mentoring from experienced wildlife biologists, develop technical research skills, gain experience in endangered species recovery, ecological monitoring, conservation communications, and project management, and collaborate with partner organizations across Kauaʻi. Few early-career positions offer such broad exposure to both field research and applied conservation.

Program Information

This is a 12-month full-time position through Kupu ʻĀina Corps (KAC). Compensation, health benefits, and other program benefits are provided through Kupu and are subject to current program guidelines.

To Apply

Applicants must complete the online application through the Kupu ʻĀina Corps website and meet all Kupu eligibility requirements, including being legally authorized to work in the United States.

In addition to the Kupu application, please email the following to puaiohijobs@gmail.com:

• Cover letter describing your interest in the position
• Current résumé
• Contact information for three professional references

Seasonal Outreach Assistant

Kaua‘i Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP) –  Deadline to apply 8/21

Location: Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i

Position Type: Seasonal, full-time (20 weeks, October – Febraury 2026)

Position Overview:

The Kaua‘i Forest Bird Recovery Project (KFBRP) is seeking a motivated and community- oriented Seasonal Outreach Assistant to support our outreach and education efforts. This position plays a key role in connecting the community with conservation work to protect Kaua‘i’s native forest birds.

The Outreach Assistant will help staff informational booths at community events, performs school and community outreach, assist with merchandise sales, and support outreach activities leading up to and during our annual Wings and Woodlands: A Tribute to Native Birds and Forests art exhibit in November.

Key Responsibilities:

• Represent KFBRP at community events, festivals, and outreach booths

• Engage with the public to share information about native birds and conservation efforts

• Assist with setup and breakdown of outreach displays and materials

• Support merchandise sales, including inventory tracking and cash handling

• Help prepare outreach materials and organize supplies

• Provide general logistical support for outreach events, including the November art exhibit

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college

• One to three (1-3) years of relevant experience (e.g., outreach, education, retail, customer

service, or community engagement)

Preferred Skills & Qualifications:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Organized and detail-oriented

• Flexible and able to work evenings and weekends as needed

• Comfortable interacting with diverse audiences

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

• Basic knowledge of Hawai‘i’s native birds and conservation issues (or willingness to

learn)

COMPENSATION

• Salary range $3553- 3986, depending on qualifications.

• Housing will not be provided, but we will assist in finding housing to the best of our abilities. 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.

Additional Information:

• This is a seasonal position from August – December 2026 with variable hours depending on event schedules

• Training and background information on KFBRP’s work will be provided

• Passion for conservation, community engagement, and working outdoors is highly valued

• Compensation depends on education and previous experiences

• Proof of degree is required (e.g. certificate of degree or transcript stating that degree was awarded)

How to Apply:

Applications will be accepted until August 21st, 2026 and will be reviewed as they are received.

Required materials include a cover letter, current CV, and contact information for three references. Include a brief statement in your cover letter describing your experience and interest in supporting conservation outreach on Kaua‘i.

Please email applications and any questions to Dr. Julia Diegmann (julia(at)kauaiforestbirds.org).