Junior Research Assistant

Job Summary

The selected candidate will assist primarily with the daily tasks of rearing marine animals. These tasks may include (but are not limited to) routine feeding, cleaning tanks, and providing a high‑level care to fish and invertebrate populations. Junior Research Assistants will also assist senior staff in maintaining inventory of supplies and procuring supplies and equipment. Junior Research Assistants will also participate in data collection, record keeping, and other relevant research tasks, working under the supervision of more senior staff.

Work activities take place largely outdoors and may also involve prolonged exposure to sun and/or inclement weather.

This is a part‑time, non‑exempt (hourly), staff position located at the Oceanic Institute in Waimanalo.

• Currently enrolled in a B.S. or B.A. degree in aquaculture, marine science, biology, or related discipline.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Willing and able to work adjusted work week (Tuesday‑Saturday or Sunday‑Thursday) and holidays.
• Upon hire, candidate must have reliable personal transportation to facilitate travel between all HPU worksites and other locations as required by the position. This includes a valid driver’s license.

• Strong interest in a career working in the local aquaculture industry.

• Good interpersonal and communication skills, good record keeping, and ability to work in a team environment while handling multiple tasks.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship and relocation allowance is not available for this position.
• Report to work obligations to support the department and may require work during HPU’s winter break, if necessary.
• Must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with the Protection of Minors policy.
• Able to work all shifts.
• Successful candidate will be able to work in an environment that utilizes excellent time and stress management skills.

Responsible for rearing fish and invertebrate populations, including feeding, tank maintenance, and overall animal care activities.

• Ordering or assisting with the ordering of feeds and supplies using University provided purchase credit card (responsible for purchase card, reconciling charges for business use only, and safeguarding of card and PIN).

• Assisting in off‑campus projects.
• Actively participating as an effective member of the team by completing assigned duties, accepting additional assignments or reassignments.
• Assists with seasonal peaks.

This description is not designed to list all activities, duties or responsibilities which may be required for this job. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned at any time.

Hawaii Pacific University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable environment in which faculty and staff can excel irrespective of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, marital status, or any other protected class covered by state and federal law. Hawaii Pacific University encourages applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities.

A pre‑employment background investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.