Forestry Researcher with American Samoa Community College in American Samoa

Under the supervision of the Research Coordinator, the Forestry Researcher leads a research program to improve the understanding and management of American Samoa’s forest resources. The program is responsive to local stakeholder inputs while meeting grantor requirements. Research may address issues in the areas of forest health and invasive species, urban and community forestry, conservation of native forests and wildlife, agroforestry, and sustainable management and utilization of forest resources. The Forestry Research program also provides technical support for the Division’s Forest Health, Urban and Community Forestry, and Forest Stewardship programs as well as forest-related programs at other local and federal government agencies.

Duties:

• Work closely with counterparts in ACNR and other agencies to design and conduct research and extension projects addressing local community forestry needs
• Write grants to procure support for forestry research and extension programs
• Other duties as assigned by Supervisor
• Provide technical support and collaboration on forestry programs conducted by ACNR and local agencies and provide technical support for ACNR instructional programs
• Conduct and assist with workshops, seminars and other outreach activities to share research finding and promote improved forest conservation and management in American Samoa
• Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate the forestry research program based on local needs and grantor requirements
Reporting
• Publish research findings in local technical reports as well as refereed journals

Minimum Qualifications:
• Master’s degree in forestry, botany or related field
• Professional knowledge of theory and practice of forest conservation and management
• Proven research competence, with two years research and/or extension experience
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in GPS/GIS, with strong background in forest/agroforest management
• Strength and stamina to conduct field work in the humid tropics
• Must have driver’s license
• Pesticide applicator certification (or obtain (or obtain certification within 3 months of hire)

Preferred Qualifications:
• Doctorate degree in forestry, botany or related field
• Plant taxonomy and plant ecology, weed control expertise
• Understanding of Samoan culture and good Samoan language skills