Contract Arborist

POSITION OVERVIEW

Organization: The Food Basket

Program: Kōkua Harvest

Contract Type: Independent contractor

Project Duration: 9 months, anticipated timeframe July 1, 2026 – April 9, 2027

Location: Puna District, Hawaiʻi Island

Compensation: $30,000

Schedule: Variable, based on project needs (estimated: 20-30 hours per month)

Travel: Must be able to travel within the Puna District

Deadline: Open until filled

How to Apply: Email resume, a brief cover letter, and three references to info@kokuaharvest.org.

The Contract Arborist will support the Kōkua Harvest program by ensuring the health, productivity, and longevity of fruit-bearing trees across the Puna District. This role combines hands-on tree care, program development, and community education to strengthen sustainable food systems, improve harvest efficiency, and build long-term ecological resilience.

The Arborist will work closely with harvest leaders, crop donors, volunteers, and community partners to implement best practices in tree care and sustainable harvesting.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Tree Health Assessment & Maintenance

• Conduct on-site assessments of fruit trees across participating properties (farms, private residences, orchards)
• Identify tree health challenges (disease, pests, structural concerns, nutrient deficiencies)
• Perform or recommend appropriate pruning and maintenance practices
• Develop care plans to improve long-term productivity, easeful harvesting, and health and safety of participating trees

2. Sustainable Harvesting Guidance

• Establish and document best practices for safe and efficient harvesting
• Advise harvest leaders and crop donors on harvest readiness and timing
• Ensure harvesting methods protect long-term tree health

3. Program Development

• Design and implement a Tree Health Monitoring Program
• Create simple tracking tools or protocols for staff to monitor tree condition over time
• Recommend improvements to increase harvest efficiency and yield

4. Training & Capacity Building

• Train Harvest Leaders, crop donors, and volunteers in:
• Proper pruning techniques
• Tree health basics
• Safe tool use
• Sustainable harvesting practices
• Lead occasional hands-on workshops or demonstrations in the community

5. Collaboration & Support

• Work collaboratively with harvest leaders to plan tree care activities
• Provide technical expertise to support outreach to farmers and property owners
• Contribute to building relationships with local growers and land stewards

6. Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain detailed records of site visits, tree conditions, and work performed
• Provide periodic reports summarizing:
• Tree health improvements
• Training conducted
• Recommendations and outcomes
• Support grant reporting needs as required

DELIVERABLES

• Tree health assessments for participating sites
• Established tree maintenance and pruning protocols
• Host staff and volunteer training sessions (minimum: 3)
• Tree Health Monitoring Program and tools
• Monthly written reports

QUALIFICATIONS

• Certified Arborist (e.g., ISA Certified Arborist or equivalent experience)
• Demonstrated experience in tropical or subtropical fruit tree care
• Knowledge of sustainable agriculture and regenerative practices
• Experience working with community-based or volunteer-driven programs
• Strong communication and teaching skills
• Ability to work in outdoor environments and variable terrain
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse community members

PREFERRED ATTRIBUTES

• Familiarity with Hawaiʻi Island ecosystems and agriculture
• Experience supporting food security or nonprofit programs

COMPENSATION & SCHEDULE

• Flat rate of $30,000, paid in installments
• Mileage reimbursement
• Variable schedule, based on project needs (estimated: 20-30 hours per month)

IMPACT

This role directly supports food security, reduces food waste, and strengthens community resilience by ensuring the long-term health of fruit trees that sustain local food systems.

OUR MISSION – The Food Basket

To end hunger in Hawai’i.

OUR MISSION – The Kōkua Harvest Project

Through the act of working together to share fresh produce, Kōkua Harvest connects and nourishes our island, builds stronger community relationships, and fosters a deeper appreciation for the food and resources our ‘āina provides for us.

WHO WE ARE

Kōkua Harvest is the community-based food rescue (also known as “gleaning”) program of The Food Basket. We work to achieve our mission by harvesting and distributing excess produce from farms and private residents to community groups and individuals around Hawaiʻi Island. We work with crop donors who provide their extra produce to our program and volunteers who harvest the produce, then we team up with community groups who distribute the harvests to their patrons.

HOW TO APPLY

Email resume, a brief cover letter, and three references to info@kokuaharvest.org.

Pay: $3,333.00 per month

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Hilo, HI 96720