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 position will work with the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR).
This is an RCUH position. To be considered, please apply directly on the RCUH website by following this link: ID# 225527 Habitat & Fish Monitoring Technician I
CLOSING DATE: October 26, 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 (Hawai‘i).
Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Social Science Research Institute (SSRI). Primary work location will be in Kailua-Kona on Hawaiʻi Island. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.
MONTHLY SALARY: $3,416.67/Mon.
DUTIES: Conducts underwater fieldwork. Performs fish and benthic surveys utilizing SCUBA, underwater scientific survey techniques such as fish and invertebrate transects, timed surveys, photo quadrat collection, collection of imagery for photogrammetric 3D modeling, sediment collection, and other established methodologies. Assists with post-processing and species annotation of survey images. Organizes and backs-up digital files with guidance from lead biologist and monitoring biologist. Performs rendering of field imagery into 3D models and runs data extraction procedures. Inputs fish survey data, performs regular master database updates, conducts basic data quality control, and backs up and stores all data appropriately. Trailers, launches, recovers, and operates small vessels in near coastal and inshore Hawaiian waters. Drives to work and field sites. Work must be completed in compliance with safety protocols and procedures. Performs basic maintenance and/or schedules mechanical repairs and maintenance for all underwater survey equipment, boats, vehicles, etc. Prepares for fieldwork by gathering and loading all necessary data sheets and other survey supplies/equipment, ensures vehicles and vessels are set-up for the necessary work, helps organize survey schedules, and completes necessary dive and float plans. This is a progression series job in which the employee will be expected to perform with increasing independence on progressively responsible duties. Quantity and quality of work is expected to increase as levels increase. Progression from one (1) level to the next is not dependent on time-in-grade, rather upon employee’s demonstrated abilities, competence, and operational needs. Through experience, demonstrated competence, and operational needs, may be hired at the appropriate level.
PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION: At least two (2) years of college level coursework from an accredited college or university.
EXPERIENCE: One to three (1-3) years of experience with recreational or scientific SCUBA diving. At least one (1) year of compensated employment or volunteer service involving marine science related research, use of computers/computer software for data entry, and other various administrative tasks associated with scientific research projects.
KNOWLEDGE: Familiar with Microsoft Excel. Familiar with commonly used underwater scientific survey techniques such as fish and invertebrate transects, timed surveys, photo quadrat collection, sediment collection, and other established survey methodologies. Willingness to learn to identify in the field Hawaiian reef fish, corals, algae and invertebrates.
ABILITIES & SKILLS: Must be SCUBA certified (NAUI, PADI, etc.) and meet the standards established by DAR’s diver certification process (which meets the standards set by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration) and hold the current certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen Administration, and maintain throughout duration of employment. Must be willing and able to work weekends and evenings as needed on occasion, and drive to DAR Hilo office or field 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 be able to obtain boat operator certification within six (6) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment. 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. Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must be able to qualify as a DAR Scientific Diver within two (2) months from date of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment.
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:
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university with coursework in Marine Science. Familiarity with Hawaiian reef fish, corals, algae, and invertebrates. Basic knowledge of biological principles and Hawaiian marine ecology. Quantitative Underwater Ecological Surveying Techniques (QUEST) or other specific underwater monitoring training. Previous authorization as a scientific diver from an American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) accredited organization. Experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Agisoft Metashape, CoralNet, or other software used for benthic data processing are preferred.
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.