Organization Details
HCRI was established in 1998 to provide support for research and training to build capacity to effectively manage coral reef ecosystems in Hawaii. It has been guided by the belief that social science provides a critical foundation to long term sustainability of natural resources.
Opportunity Details
This is an RCUH position. To be considered, please apply directly on the RCUH website by following this link: ID# 225568 HCRI Ballast Water & Biofouling Technician
CLOSING DATE: October 31, 2025, or until filled. Applications received after this deadline may be considered only if the position is not filled or up to the date a selection has been approved by the RCUH (whichever comes first). INQUIRIES: Kira Yamashita at hcri@hawaii.edu or 808-200-9554 (Oahu).
Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Social Science Research Institute (SSRI), Hawai‘i Coral Reef Initiative (HCRI), located in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Position will work with the Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) Ballast Water and Biofouling Program. Primary work location will be at the DAR Anuenue Fisheries Research Center (AFRC) in Sand Island, and other designated worksites on Oahu. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.
MONTHLY SALARY: $4,000/Mon.
DUTIES: Assists with ballast water and biofouling inspections and surveys. Performs in-water surveys using SCUBA, snorkel, or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) around vessels for aquatic invasive organisms. Assists with organization and preparation for inspections and surveys. Manages the Ballast Water and Biofouling Program email account, including responding in a timely manner. Collects and processes ballast water reporting forms. Follows up with vessels on reporting form errors. Conducts ballast water risk assessments following an SOP. Conducts ballast water and biofouling outreach to partner agencies, vessel companies, and recreational vessel operators. Creates quarterly data reports for a data sharing collective and for the program website. Manages information on the program website and ensures all pages are up to date. Conducts research and creates reports on ballast water and biofouling topics. Assists with other Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Team tasks, including field work, as needed. Must be able to travel interisland. Must be willing and able to work weekends and evenings as needed on occasion, and drive to various work sites.
PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in marine science, natural or environmental resource planning, or maritime operations related field. (Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college in Biological Sciences and at least two (2) years of relevant experience may substitute for a Bachelor’s Degree.).
EXPERIENCE: One to three (1-3) years of experience with recreational or scientific SCUBA diving and marine science-related research.
KNOWLEDGE: Familiar with aquatic invasive species and pathways. Demonstrated competence with basic data entry programs such as Microsoft Excel.
ABILITIES & SKILLS: Must be SCUBA certified (NAUI, PADI, etc.) to basic Open Water and meet the standards established by DAR’s diver certification process (which meets the standards set by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration). Must be willing and able to work weekends and evenings as needed on occasion, and drive to various work sites. 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. Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must obtain valid certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen Administration and qualify as a DAR Scientific Diver before SCUBA activities begin. Must be able to complete the UH Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT) within two (2) weeks from date of hire, and re-certify every twelve (12) months.
PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS: Must be capable of handling all necessary diving equipment and procedures required in conducting underwater research from shore or small boats. Interisland travel may be required.
POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT: As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.).
SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:
Basic knowledge of biological principles and Hawaiian marine ecology. Experience conducting outreach to non-scientific audiences. SCUBA certified (NAUI, PADI, etc.) to Rescue Diver or higher level. Experience using Microsoft Access and Geographic Information System.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to https://www.rcuh.com/opportunities/job-openings/. You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Professional References, 4) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our 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.
RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i.
RCUH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, marital status, reproductive health decision, citizenship, gender identity or expression, domestic or sexual violence victim status, military/veteran status, or other grounds protected under applicable federal and state laws, except as permitted by law.