Biosecurity and Invasive Species Specialist

Under the supervision and guidance of the Plant Conservation Program leadership, executes the Department’s biosecurity and invasive species management program. The Biosecurity Specialist is responsible for planning, management, and execution of biosecurity inspection and quarantine program, and incipient invasive species control activities. The Biosecurity Specialist conducts inspections of incoming plants, tracks shipments from arrival through release from quarantine, identifies the species of any pest detections, and oversees necessary treatments. The Biosecurity Specialist also conducts routine monitoring and surveillance programs for priority invasive pests (e.g., little fire ant, coconut rhinoceros beetle, and coqui frog), coordinates rapid response in the event of detection, and conducts control of incipient invasive species to prevent establishment on Lānaʻi.

The Biosecurity Specialist prepares plans, resource needs, develops program priorities with supervisors, maintains databases, , and proper reporting, and assists with policy and procedure development for the Department’s Plant Conservation Program. The Biosecurity Specialist aids in coordination and partnerships with internal (e.g., landscaping department) and external partners (e.g., HDOA, community). The position also handles sensitive information and performs administrative duties associated with biosecurity and invasive species management.

Compensation:

$65,000 to $75,000 (exempt)

Reporting Relationship:

Reports to:     Plant Ecologist 

Supervises:     Conservation Technicians (I, II, III), interns, and volunteers assigned as needed to meet program goals. May supervise contractors, visiting researchers, and rapid response crews.

• Conduct individual and business affairs in highest ethical and legal fashion.
• Establish and contribute to a supportive, creative, enthusiastic, and cooperative working environment for all.
• Build strong communication links with supervisors, peers, and employees.
• Continuously strive for excellence in the workplace, the Company environment, and as a Company representative.
• Comply with all Company policies and standards.
• Conducts business in alignment with the Mission, Vision, and Values of Pūlama Lāna‘i.

Essential Duties

• Lead planning, management, and execution of biosecurity and incipient invasive species control activities including inspections of incoming plants, as well as routine monitoring of sites around the island for potentially invasive pests.
• Lead the biosecurity inspection process for incoming plants, including tracking shipments from arrival through release from quarantine, species identification of any pest detections, and oversight of necessary treatments. This duty may include preparing and applying pesticides and other treatments per labels and protocols; repairing, maintaining, and deploying animal and insect traps and monitoring devices. 
• Lead implementation of routine monitoring and surveillance programs for priority invasive pests, and conducts control of incipient invasive species. This duty may use various traps, lures, acoustic recorders, or other devices.
• Maintain consistent and accurate scheduling and record keeping in all aspects of the biosecurity program for project tracking and reporting.
• Communicate within Conservation, and with other departments, external partners, stakeholders, and community members, about biosecurity, including quarantine procedures, expectations, and results.
• Support native ecosystem restoration including weed control, native out-planting, and fence installation and repairs. 
• Assist nursery work for Conservation and Island Operations.
• Assist other plant conservation and invasive species management programs. 
• May lead or supervise crews.
• Maintain program equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Demonstrated ability to work successfully as a productive team member with people of diverse cultures, ages, and educational backgrounds. 
• Strong interest in natural resource management.
• Strong safety ethic.
• Able to effectively, efficiently, and safely execute instructions and direction.
• Combination of experience and education equivalent to a Bachelor of Science in biology (Botany, Ecology, etc.). 
• Knowledge and experience with Hawai‘i’s flora, fauna, natural resources, and culture.
• Able