Invasive Ant Program Manager

CLOSING DATE:
October 21, 2026, or until filled. Job postings are removed from the RCUH Job Openings site once the recruitment process has ended.

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), Hawai‘i Ant Lab (HAL), located in Hilo, Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.

MONTHLY SALARY RANGE: $6,266.06 - $7,000/Mon.

Manages the invasive ant strategy for Hawai‘i and the daily research and extension program of the Hawai‘i Ant Lab (HAL), including fiscal and human resource management. The program`s mission is to protect agriculture, people, and the environment of Hawai‘i from the introduction of new invasive ants, to prevent or reduce the spread of existing ant species, and to eradicate infestations where this is feasible.

Accomplishes this by developing and implementing a comprehensive strategy that minimizes impacts associated with the threat of invasive ants and promotes biosecurity collaboration within the Pacific region. Expected outcomes of the program include enhanced awareness of invasive ant issues and development of new and novel solutions to control invasive species for people, industry, and natural resource managers. Directs, supervises, and assigns work to Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU) HAL staff.

Drives to meetings and to the field in UH trucks.

Master`s Degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Entomology, or a conservation related field. (Bachelor`s Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Biological Sciences, Natural Resources Management, or related field with two (2) years of graduate training or project management experience may be substitute for a Master`s Degree.).

Three to five (3-5) years of experience related to job duties. Experience must include at least two (2) years of research experience in invertebrate biosecurity or invasive ant research and two (2) years of experience managing research teams in a high-performing environment, policy development, and strategic planning. A successful track record of grant acquisition and management with proven experience in the development of new technologies.

Working knowledge of invasive ant biology, biosecurity procedures, state and federal legislation relating to these fields, policy development, and strategic planning. Extensive knowledge of pesticides, mode of action, and formulation of pesticide products. Thorough working knowledge of culture in Hawai‘i and the Pacific region is required. Knowledge of various avenues for gathering technical and legislative information. Knowledge of management principles including, but not limited to, supervising/developing employees, EEO, workplace safety, corrective/disciplinary actions, and administration of policies and procedures.

Demonstrated ability to foster teamwork with a wide range of people and mentor subordinate staff. Proven ability to produce tangible outcomes, manage multiple projects, and work well under deadlines. Skilled in use of electronic communications and word processing, spreadsheet, and statistical software. Excellent oral and written communication and organizational skills. Strong interest in the protection of Hawai‘i`s natural resources and in innovative solutions to the problem of harmful non-native species invasion.

Ability to work normal weekday business hours and occasional evenings and weekends, and to travel on short notice. Ability to establish work standards/expectations and clear direction…