Unpaid Field/Research Assistant: Habitat Restoration Volunteer (HI)
The State of Hawai’i’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) is seeking Habitat Restoration Volunteers for work at Kure Atoll Wildlife Sanctuary in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Deadline to apply: April 25, 2026!
Agency/Organization: Kure Atoll Conservancy
Location: Kure Atoll, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
Website: https://kureatollconservancy.org/
Job Description:
Kure Atoll Conservancy (KAC) and The State of Hawai’i’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) are seeking Habitat Restoration Volunteers for work at Kure Atoll Wildlife Sanctuary in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. 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 Koloa Pōhaka (Laysan duck) and ‘llioholoikauaua (Hawaiian monk seal). Eighteen species of seabirds nest on Hōlanikū (Kure Atoll), including Kaʻupu, (black footed albatross) and ʻAoʻū, (Christmas shearwater).
KAC and DLNR are 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!
Qualifications:
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.
A passion for wildlife conservation
Wage/Compensation: Unpaid
To Apply: Send resume, cover letter, and three references to: kureatoll@gmail.com.
Application Deadline: April 25, 2026
Start Date: May 28, 2026
Contact: Kure Atoll Hiring Team (kureatoll@gmail.com)
