Interested in joining us as we advance the seabird recovery and conservation on the island of Kauaʻi? We’re currently accepting applications for the following positions:
KESRP Field Technician
Kaua‘i Endangered Seabird Recovery Project (KESRP) is seeking a Field Technician who will implement predator control and seabird monitoring activities in the project. The Field Technician will help the program achieve its goals for the recovery of the endangered seabird species on Kaua‘i. The anticipated start date of the position is January 12, 2026.
Location: Lihue, HI
Last Date to Apply: 12/12/2025
Main Responsibilities
The Field Technician will implement management (primarily predator and invasive plant control) and research activities for the recovery of endangered seabirds on Kaua‘i. This position will operate lethal predator traps and air guns for predator control and use manual and chemical control methods for invasive plant management. The position will also conduct fieldwork regarding the locating and monitoring of endangered seabirds on Kaua‘i.
55% Conducts fieldwork to monitor, trap, and remove rats, mice, cats, and Barn Owls in and around seabird colonies. Identifies and controls invasive plant species in seabird colonies using manual, mechanical, and approved chemical methods. Assists in maintaining, calibrating, and cleaning tools and equipment used for invasive species management. Drives to conduct biological fieldwork primarily in remote areas. Follows established biosecurity, safety, and animal welfare protocols at all times. Upon approval, loads, unloads, aims, and fires air guns from a variety of body positions in authorized project-related research or wildlife control programs. Assists with planning and coordinating predator and invasive plant management activities.
25% Implements surveys to locate and monitor endangered seabirds across Kaua‘i. Conducts auditory point counts to identify the distribution of seabirds. Conducts fieldwork to monitor breeding success and relative abundance of Newell’s Shearwaters and Hawaiian Petrels at colony sites, using auditory, visual (binoculars, night vision), burrow cameras, and song meters. Includes logistics management, operation of equipment, and maintenance of vehicles, equipment, and tools. Assists with training the field crew and volunteers in the field.
15% Enters all field data into computer files and digitizes data from burrow cameras. Carries out preliminary data quality control, including identifying and correcting errors, data cleaning, and validation. Assists with preparing preliminary field data summaries and final reports.
Organizational Background
Kaua‘i Endangered Seabird Recovery Project (KESRP) is a project of the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in association with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW). Founded in 2006, KESRP focuses on the endangered seabirds found on the island of Kauaʻi. Our work involves identifying the breeding distribution of these rare and enigmatic seabirds, monitoring their breeding colonies, undertaking research projects to better understand their life histories and the various threats they face, and working with partner projects and organizations to ensure their long-term conservation. We also work towards the restoration of two seabird sanctuaries on the island of Kauaʻi, Lehua, and Moku‘ae‘ae, to monitor seabird populations breeding on these islets and carry out social attraction projects to bring the native seabirds back.
Qualifications and Skills
- Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college in a related biological science.
- Three to five years of paid or volunteer experience in terrestrial biological fieldwork. Volunteer experience must be documented and verifiable.
- Demonstrated experience with one or more of the following: natural resource conservation-related hunting and trapping experience (lethal predator control), seabird monitoring methods, and auditory point counts. Demonstrated remote area experience.
- Proficient knowledge of safe use of firearms and/or wildlife traps. Knowledge of the importance of animal welfare.
- Ability to hike at least four miles on obscure trails or off-trail with a 30–40-pound backpack unassisted and live and work in isolated field camps under primitive conditions for extended periods of time.
- Ability to use Microsoft Office programs and Google Workspace to undertake field reporting. Experience in open-source data analysis and Geographic Information System software is a plus.
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Experience in communication and outreach is a plus.
How to Apply
To be considered, please go to https://www.rcuh.com/opportunities/job-openings/ and search for job ID # 225662. You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position:
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Professional References
- Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s).
All online applications must be submitted/received by 12/12/2025 11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time. If you do not have access to the RCUH system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_recruitment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262 or (808)956-0872. Please visit https://www.rcuh.com/policies-forms-documents/benefits-at-a-glance.pdf for more information on RCUH’s Benefits for eligible employees.
Kauaʻi Endangered Seabird Recovery Project 