Overview
Join our team at the Kauai National Wildlife Refuge Complex (NWRC) and help steward some of the most majestic and important habitat management sites on Kauai. This fulltime position is a key role within our ohana and will work alongside the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service team in planning, developing, prioritizing and implementing habitat restoration and management, and maintenance and infrastructure projects at Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Hanalei NWR and Huleia NWR.

Although employed by Friends of Kauaʻi Wildlife Refuges, the Refuge Complex’s dedicated Friends Group, this position will be directly supervised by the Kauai NWRC Deputy Refuge Manager.

This position is integral to the upkeep of nearly 1,500 acres of habitat that is essential for protecting, restoring and enhancing native ecosystems and species, through invasive species control and landscape-level management, working with Refuge staff and other conservation partners. The position has a strong emphasis on working with partners and contractors for various Refuge construction and maintenance projects. The position will also require data collection and reporting, procurement, writing detailed project descriptions/scopes of work, coming up with materials list for projects, obtaining cost estimates, and making/assigning task lists.

Skills and Qualifications:

At least 4 years’ experience in construction, maintenance, and/or heavy equipment operation.
Strong interest in natural resource management and conservation of local lands and native species.
Knowledge and first-hand experience with Hawaii’s flora, fauna, and culture is desirable, but not required.
Education and/or experience in a relevant field, such as biology, ecology, environmental science, or wildlife and/or habitat management is preferred, but not required.
Knowledge of standard mechanical tools, systems, and component parts necessary to perform a variety of mechanical repairs on vehicles, equipment, and attachments, such as tune-ups, brake repairs, water and fuel pumps, etc.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Experience with contracting and/or writing scopes of work/project plans, as well as materials lists and cost estimates.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, as well as to work well with and motivate others.
Ability to work in remote and rugged terrain.

Physical Demands and Other Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry equipment up to 50 lbs.
Ability to work in various weather conditions for long periods of time.
Possession of a valid driver's license and ability to provide own transportation to and from work.
Ability to pass a criminal background check.
Ability to successfully complete ORUV (ATV/UTV) training.
Ability to obtain applicable herbicide treatment certification.
Ability to obtain heavy equipment certification.
Ability to complete chainsaw training.
Ability to work full time (40 hours per week) between Monday through Friday or Tuesday through Saturday with some flexibility for emergency needs.

This is a full-time, non-exempt (hourly) position scheduled to work 40 hours per week. The position offers benefits including healthcare coverage provided by the organization, paid holidays and paid time off.

Salary Range: $59,280-$68,182, based upon experience.

For more information, view the full position description available online at: www.kauairefuges.org/join-our-team.

To apply, please send a resume with cover letter to info@kilaueapoint.org or download an employment application and email to us. We look forward to meeting you!

The application period is open until 1/31/26, or until filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $28.50 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Friends of Kauaʻi Wildlife Refuges jobs

Maintenance & Habitat Restoration Specialist