Become part of Hawaii’s conservation story

One position with the Kupu Conservation Leadership Development Program is available to join the reintroduction project for the critically endangered ‘Alalā. The goal of the project is to establish self-sustaining populations of ‘Alalā in the wild using conservation breeding and reintroduction techniques. The entire ‘Alalā population is cared for by the Hawai‘i Endangered Bird Conservation Program. Birds are maintained at the Keauhou and Maui Bird Conservation Centers, where the species is part of an intensive breeding program. Approximately 12 birds will released annually into suitably restored habitat. 

The intern will work as part of a team responsible for the post-release monitoring and husbandry of ‘Alalā. Primary duties include: caring for birds in pre-release aviaries, radio tracking released individuals, preparing and provisioning supplementary food, assisting in recapture and transmitter attachment, monitoring behavior and condition of birds both during captivity and after release, detailed record keeping, GIS data management; and other duties as assigned. Staying overnight at remote sites and working on any seven days of the week will be required. The position will primarily be based at remote release sites in montane wet forest on Hawai‘i Island and will require spending lots of time outdoors often in inclement weather.
 
Skills required for this position include good observation skills, full color vision, enjoying spending time in the field, clear and accurate note taking, detailed data management skills, ability to use computer programs for data entry and management, positive communication and teamwork skills, and high level of physical fitness and an ability to lift 50lbs. Preferred experience include 4WD experience and field experience with threatened species.

TIMEFRAME:
June 12, 2017 - May 11, 2018

BENEFITS:
Earn a $1,440 monthly living allowance (subject to taxes)
Earn a $5,775 Education Award (similar to a scholarship) towards higher education
Opportunity for interest earned on certain educational loans (during the internship term) to be paid for by AmeriCorps
Complete over 1700 hours of environmental community service
Health care and childcare benefits (if eligible)
Receive an in-depth entry-level environmental education/experience from an environmental agency that interests you
Develop a strong relationship and work side-by-side with a single site manager for 11 months
Help protect Hawaii’s natural resources and make a positive impact in your community!

REQUIREMENTS:
Be at least 18 years of age (or 17 with a high school diploma) by June 12, 2017
Possess/be working towards high school diploma or equivalent
Have own housing and transportation
Pass a criminal history check
Meet the necessary physical and behavioral requirements

TO APPLY:
https://kupuhawaii.tfaforms.net/88

Please specify "San Diego Zoo Global ‘Alalā team" on the application.

Information

For more information about Hawai‘i Endangered Bird Conservation Program and this opportunity please visit our website at http://institute.sandiegozoo.org/species/alala, contact us at Contact Phone or via email at Contact Email.

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