The Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity is on the hunt for new biosecurity inspectors to help in the fight against invasive species across Hawaiʻi.
The department is partnering with Leeward Community College’s Office of Workforce Development to accept up to 20 students in the college’s first Biosecurity Academy, which starts in November and ends in March 2027.
“This innovative program will allow the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to address the needs of the community by bringing in more inspectors to check cargo at airports and harbors and provide fast response to any pressing needs on the invasive species front across the state,” said Sharon Hurd, chair of Agriculture and Biosecurity Department, in a press release.
Graduates will eventually work for the department’s agriculture and biosecurity department’s Plant Quarantine Branch.
The branch was established in 1888 under King David Kalākaua to prevent pests from damaging coffee being grown in the islands. Today, these inspectors screen incoming passengers and cargo at airports and harbors for pests or microorganisms in fruits, vegetables and seafood destined for store shelves and restaurants.
“By creating a direct pathway into meaningful careers, this program helps prepare the next generation of biosecurity professionals right here at home,” State Sen. Donovan M. Dela Cruz said.
The recruitment for the academy is happening now. Applications are available here. Applicants must have obtained a four-year college degree. Leeward Community College will provide biosecurity inspection training.
Partnering with the department of agriculture and biosecurity is a natural partnership is leveraging the collegeʻs expertise, said Leeward Community College Chancellor Carlos Peñaloza.
“This academy isn’t just about filling critical job vacancies; it’s about providing meaningful career pathways for our local talent while actively safeguarding our agriculture, natural resources and local economy for generations to come,” Peñaloza said.
If you need more information about the Biosecurity Academy, please contact DAB INFO at: 808-973-9560, or email: DAB.INFO@hawaii.gov.
