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Unpaid Field/Research Assistant: Habitat Restoration Volunteer (HI)

The State of Hawai’i’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) are searching for volunteers to assist with habitat restoration on Hōlanikū (Kure Atoll), Papahānaumokuākea (Northwestern Hawaiian Islands)–a remote wildlife sanctuary–from May 10, 2023 to October 30, 2023. Deadline to apply: 4/28/2023.

Agency/Organization: The State of Hawai’i’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW)

Location: Hōlanikū (Kure Atoll), Papahānaumokuākea (Northwestern Hawaiian Islands)

Website: http://kureatollconservancy.org

Job Description: Hōlanikū is a part of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and is located 1,400 miles northwest of O’ahu. Hōlanikū provides important habitat for wildlife, including the endangered Laysan duck (Anas laysanensis) and ‘llioholoikauaua (Hawaiian monk seal). Eighteen species of seabirds nest on Hōlanikū (Kure Atoll) including Kaʻupu, (black footed albatross) and ʻAoʻū (Christmas shearwater).

DLNR is committed to eradicating non-native and invasive plant species such as Golden crown-beard (Verbesina encelioides) from the atoll. Invasive plants are a significant management concern because they displace native plants, which are necessary for wildlife habitat and to promote dune stability. This position is a rare opportunity to protect and recover a unique ecosystem while living in a remote wildlife sanctuary!

Hōlanikū is an extremely remote work location and transportation to the atoll is limited and infrequent. Deployment to any remote field station is a serious under taking. Delays in travel dates due to weather or ship mechanical issues may occur. Due to Hōlanikū being a remote location and difficult access response times for emergencies, including evacuation, may be uncertain. The ability to live and work in close quarters with a small group of people for an
extended period of time is of the utmost importance. Field teams typically consist of 6 to 8 personnel. There are only 2-3 field seasons per year (approximately 3-8 months each). There is no Internet or cell phone service available. Contact with friends/family is limited to text only email (no pictures or attachments) through the field station’s satellite phone and Garmin Inreach devices.

Volunteers will be trained to conduct: Invasive plant removal (manual and chemical), invasive species monitoring, plant identification, wildlife monitoring and species identification, native plant propagation and distribution, safe animal handling, and beach cleanups to remove wildlife entanglement and ingestion hazards.

Although the program objectives are diverse, the majority of time is dedicated to invasive plant removal.

Volunteers will acquire skills in: wildlife monitoring, data collection and entry, Excel and GPS equipment, binocular/spotting scope use. Hawaiian cultural activities are incorporated into the program.

Strict Biosecurity: Biosecurity protocols are in place to prevent further introduction of alien species. This quarantine requires that all “soft” items (clothing, shoes, straps, etc.) must be purchased as new and frozen for 48 hours prior to departure to Hōlanikū. All “hard” items (cameras, electronics, musical instruments, etc.) must be inspected
thoroughly and may need to be frozen or fumigated prior to departure. Read more here.

Volunteers can expect to work 40 hours per week. Work hours are project dependent and may include early mornings, evenings, and weekends. Additionally, volunteers will assist with camp upkeep and chores outside of regular work hours. Travel dates are tentative and subject to change. DLNR/ DOFAW will provide transportation between Honolulu and Hōlanikū. Lodging and food while on Hōlanikū and in transit between Honolulu and Hōlanikū are provided. Most clothing and work-related gear is provided.

Qualifications:

Requirements:

  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Excellent physical and mental health
  • Able to walk 10 miles per day with a 40 lb. pack over soft sand and uneven terrain
  • Able to lift and carry 50 lbs.
  • Data collection and management skills
  • Able to work in uncomfortable and/or unpredictable weather
  • Bend or stoop for short periods of time, ability to swim, 20/20 color vision or correctable lenses
  • Must be able to obtain medical clearance for embarking/working on research vessels
  • Must be comfortable with use of pesticides

Duration: May 10, 2023 to October 30, 2023. Volunteers are asked to come to Honolulu, HI at least one week prior to deployment

To apply: Send resume, cover letter, and three references to: kureatoll@gmail.com. Applications reviewed upon receipt until positions are filled.

Application Deadline: 4/28/2023

Start Date: 5/1/2023

Contact: Cynthia Vanderlip & Michelle Smith (kureatoll@gmail.com)