Individual Placement - Nā Ala Hele Field Assistant

Position Summary 

Nā Ala Hele’s mission is to preserve, maintain, and manage Hawai‘i’s public trail and access system so that people can safely enjoy and experience the state’s historic, cultural, and recreational trails. The program seeks to ensure public access, protect natural and cultural resources, and provide opportunities for recreation, education, and stewardship of Hawai‘i’s landscapes.

 

Full-Time (40hrs/wk.) The Field Assistant will assist NAH staff in maintaining and rerouting trails, conducting data collection and analysis, and supporting the development of maps, signage, and other infrastructure improvements for recreational and historic trails. The role will also support volunteer outreach efforts and initiatives to improve public access.

 

Location 

Hilo, HI

 

Schedule 

March 30, 2026 - January 18, 2027

*An earlier start date is available. Please inquire during interview.

Monday through Friday, 7am-3:30pm. Occasional camping may be required along with weekend events.

 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

· Trail Maintenance: Assist Nā Ala Hele Trails and Access Program staff with maintaining program trails in accordance with public access trail standards.

· Data Collection: Assist in data collection in the field and maintain accurate records for analysis and program development.

· GIS: Assist with researching and mapping historic and ancient trails using GIS software.

· Outreach and Volunteers: Assist with outreach activities and volunteer events.

 

Marginal Duties 

· Assist with additional field projects within the Division of Forestry and Wildlife, including species surveys.

 

Required Qualifications 

· Interest in and basic knowledge of Hawaiian plants, animals, geology, culture, and history.

· Basic experience of hiking trails in Hawaii.

· Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.

· Good computer skills, including experience using the Microsoft Office (or similar software).

· Ability to engage with the public professionally and respectfully.

· Clear and effective communication skills, both oral and written.

· Ability to work on weekends, attend public events, and occasionally camp overnight.

· Comfortable working in a variety of outdoor conditions (rain, wind, cold, hot, dry, sunny, shaded, or high elevation).

· Ability to hike five miles while carrying 30 pounds.

· Experience or willing to learn use of herbicide application.

· Experience with basic hand tools (i.e., picks, handsaws, shovel, wrenches, etc.).

 

Preferred Qualifications 

· Experience in operating both basic hand and power tools (weed whacker, machete, chainsaw, drill, impact driver, digging tools etc.)

· Completed college-level coursework or previous work experience in Outdoor Recreation, Natural Resource Management, Hawaiian Studies, Environmental Science, Geographic Information Systems and other related fields.

· Knowledge of trails

· Knowledge and experience using ArcGIS software.

 

Hours 

40 per week

 

Living Accommodations 

Housing is not provided. Placement must have their own local housing.

 

Compensation  

$800 - weekly living allowance

Health insurance is offered for 11 calendar months

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

 

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

 

Additional Benefits 

 

Health Insurance

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.