Job Type: Full-time, on-site
Location: Waikōloa, Hawai’i
Salary: $27-$34/hr
Application Due Date: Reviewed on rolling basis until filled
Position Overview:
The Wildfire Mitigation Specialist works with Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative staff, adjacent landowners, and partners to plan, prioritize, and implement wildfire mitigation and fuel reduction activities that protect natural resources and reduce impacts to the surrounding community. The Specialist will take a leadership role in coordinating fuels management efforts and achieving measurable outcomes that enhance wildfire resilience across the landscape. This role will combine project planning, community outreach, and labor-intensive field work such as expanding firebreaks and managing invasive species.
Responsibilities:
Plan, prioritize, and implement fire fuel reduction projects to protect natural resources and reduce wildfire risk.
Convene and update partners at regular meetings to improve and align regional wildfire mitigation strategies and cross-boundary fuels management.
Expand and improve firebreak networks by directing and implementing projects with staff, volunteers, and contractors.
Provide land management and wildfire resilience expertise, services, and advice to landowners and partners.
Ensure safe operation of equipment and proper chemical usage and reporting.
Qualifications:
Leadership experience in wildfire mitigation or natural resource management is required, along with a strong understanding of wildfire ecology and fuels management.
Candidates should be skilled in project management with the capacity to assess needs, prioritize projects, and create budgets.
Should possess excellent communication skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
Experience with GIS mapping and database management is highly valued.
Preferred candidates will bring experience working in Hawaiʻi’s dryland ecosystems, familiarity with native and invasive species, and a passion for promoting environmental stewardship and Hawaiian culture.
Work Environment:
This role will work primarily in Waikōloa Village with possible collaborations in Waikōloa and North Kona. Field operations will be based at the Waikōloa Dry Forest Preserve, a dry, hot, and windy environment characterized by rugged terrain. Office space will be provided at the Waimea office; remote work is also possible. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required for outreach events, stakeholder meetings, and volunteer activities.
How to Apply:
Please submit a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references to wdfi@waikoloadryforest.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
See the “Apply” or “Learn More” links below for more information.
