Job Opportunities

KISC Invasive Plant Prevention Technician

Applications Close: August 25, 2025

KISC is currently accepting applications for our Invasive Plant Prevention Technician position to support our Plant Early Detection Program. This position conducts botanical surveys island-wide, works with partners across the state to identify newly introduced plants, and assists in prioritizing new target plant species.

• Duties: Responsible for general program support duties in the KISC’s program for detection and implements evaluation of new, naturalized, and potentially invasive plant species on the island of Kaua‘i. Conducts surveys in high risk sites (e.g., nurseries, botanical gardens, agricultural experimental stations, and roadsides) for unrecorded plant species across the island and assists in the documentation and assessment of newly discovered species. Assists with coordination and logistics of field activities to implement detection and treatment plans. Assists with care of plant specimen collections and maintenance of supplies. Ensures prompt identification of plant specimens collected, as well as those submitted by partner agencies. Uses Global Positioning System (GPS)/Geographic Information System (GIS) and KISC database to collect, store, analyze and report on survey data. Assists with a public relations, outreach, and education program (Plant Pono) to raise awareness about invasive plants in the Hawaiian Islands and to generate support for KISC’s effort to curb the spread of invasive ornamental plants throughout the state. Contributes to creating and preserving a positive working relationships with nurseries, garden groups, landscapers, and trade organizations to increase participation in the Plant Pono Nursery program. Makes presentations to private business organizations, public agencies, community associations, and school groups. Interacts regularly, safe, team-oriented work environment. Assists with oversight and training of volunteers, interns, and other staff. May be asked to present at professional meetings and public outreach events. Promotes sound invasive species management to the public. See posting for full description of duties.
• Salary: $4,376/month.
• Education: Associate’s Degree in Botany, Horticulture, Agriculture, Biology, or related field
• Experience: 2-4 years of experience working in the field of horticulture, botany, plant production, or natural resources. Experience includes conducting surveys of unknown species of plants in an outdoor or nursery setting, invasive plant detection and control, etc.
• Additional Qualifications: See full posting for detailed information on all qualifications.
• Application Requirements: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Three professional supervisory references
• Benefits: Permanent positions include a generous benefits package, including health insurance, 21 vacation days, 13 holidays per year, 21 sick leave days, and retirement contributions upon completion of one year of permanent employment. Find details on the full benefits package here: RCUH Benefits