Science Coordinator for Translocation and Reintroduction of Endangered Hawaiian

American Bird Conservancy (ABC) is the only conservation group whose sole mission is to conserve native wild birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. ABC accomplishes its mission through direct action and by engaging the people, groups, resources, and strategies needed to succeed. It undertakes the full spectrum of bird conservation issues using advocacy and habitat conservation strategies.

This is a full-time position with American Bird Conservancy and will be stationed in Hawaii. The Science Coordinator will work with ABC's Oceans and Islands Division Director and federal and State of Hawaii program leaders in the implementation of translocation and/or reintroduction projects, and monitoring programs for at least three species of critically endangered Hawaiian passerines.

ABC and its partners are working to conserve Hawaiian birds by: 1) conducting on-the-ground conservation to control invasive species, restoring habitat, reducing collisions with power lines and lights, reducing exposure to hazardous chemicals, and translocating species to create new populations; 2) advocating for increased funding for Hawaiian bird conservation and for legislation that supports Hawaiian bird conservation; and 3) increasing national awareness of and support for Hawaii's conservation needs through a public outreach and media campaign.

This position requires an expertise in Hawaiian birds and their conservation issues. Work requires initiative, flexibility, accuracy, and attention to detail. The Science Coordinator reports to the Vice President of the Oceans and Islands Division.

MAJOR DUTIES:

1. Develop species specific translocation and / or reintroduction methods for endangered Hawaiian birds.

2. Ensure rigor and consistency in (a) documentation of methods and results and their evolution among species and projects, (b) data collection and management, and (c) obtaining the best available review and comment on methods and approaches used in translocation and reintroduction work in Hawaii.

3. Produce high-quality scientific products from these critically important projects for the recovery of Hawaii's native birds including written reports for partners, papers for peer-reviewed journals, and proposals to funding agencies and NGOs so that: (a) input from the scientific community at large will be incorporated, and (b) translocation and reintroduction work conducted in Hawaii generates a lasting contribution to conservation science worldwide.

4. Recruit, train and supervise project personnel.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

1. PhD from an accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology, Botany, Ecology, Conservation Biology, or a related biological science is required.

2. Three to five (3-5) years of experience planning and overseeing research projects on endangered Hawaiian birds. Extensive mist-netting and bird banding experience, experience taking blood samples, monitoring animal movements using radio-tracking, locating bird nests and studying nesting behavior.

3. Working knowledge of the principles of translocation and/or reintroduction techniques, avian demography, population ecology and conservation with specific experience in applying these concepts to Hawaii. Knowledge of research and experimental study design. Understanding of biological statistics and data analysis. Knowledge of the major conservation issues in Hawaii, and threats to Hawaiian birds.

4. Experience recruiting and supervising small research teams. Able to coordinate field logistics, train research interns, and lead or oversee all field activities. Able to supervise subordinates of various backgrounds and to recognize and resolve conflicts between staff. Must be able to maintain high standards of research quality and staff safety in difficult field condition s. Able to communicate effectively and professionally with public and partners.

5. Able to identify birds by calls and song and sight.

6. Experience writing scientific reports or publications.

7. Must possess a valid driver's license.

8. Must be able to complete basic helicopter safety course and obtain pesticide applicator certification within 12 months of hire.

9. Able to conduct fieldwork in remote, high-elevation areas and remote rugged islands where temperatures vary from very cold to extremely hot. Able to hike a minimum of seven (7) miles on obscure trails with thirty to forty (30-40) pound backpack and live and work in isolated field camps under primitive conditions. May require strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting.