Program Overview
The comprehensive curriculum equips participants for immediate career success, with training in:
- Invasive Species Control: Detection, survey, mapping, and eradication protocols for high-priority pests, including the coconut rhinoceros beetle, little fire ant, and coqui frog.
- Core Applied Sciences: Foundational knowledge of entomology, plant pathology, biosafety, vertebrate pests, and more.
- Field Technology & Reporting: Mobile data collection, Geographic Information System spatial mapping, technical documentation, and official incident reporting.
- Regulatory Compliance & Communication: Regulatory classification, public communication, cross-agency coordination, and culturally respectful community outreach.
How to Apply
Apply for the job, not the Academy. Interested candidates must apply directly for the DAB Biosecurity Inspector position through the official State of Hawaiʻi job posting. Candidates who are hired and selected for the cohort will automatically participate in the Biosecurity Academy as part of their onboarding.
The State of Hawaiʻi Department of Human Resources Development (HRD) will use email to notify applicants of important information relating to the status and processing of their applications.
Leeward Community College does not accept applications for this program and is not responsible for recruitment. Questions about the application process should be directed to HRD at 808-587-1111.
Program FAQ
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must hold a 4-year degree from an accredited college or university at the time of application. No prior science coursework or specific major is required.
Is there a cost to participate?
There are no educational costs for participants attending the Biosecurity Academy. This is a formal onboarding and training program for newly hired biosecurity inspectors, not a prerequisite course you must pay for or complete before employment. Accepted candidates are hired state employees earning a salary while completing training.
How do I apply?
Interested applicants must apply for the DAB Biosecurity Inspector position.
Do I apply separately for the Biosecurity Academy?
No. There is no separate application or enrollment process for the Biosecurity Academy. Candidates apply for the DAB Biosecurity Inspector position. Individuals who are hired and selected for the cohort will be automatically enrolled in the Academy as part of their employment and onboarding.
How many applicants will be selected?
Only 20 spots are available for the inaugural cohort. Recruitment will remain open until 50 applications are received. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their job applications early, as recruitment may close at any time.
How is the course structured?
The Biosecurity Academy curriculum blends classroom instruction at Leeward CC with applied, hands-on field experience working alongside senior DAB personnel. The Academy will not include a pass/fail requirement.
Upon completion of the Academy, trainees will receive a Certificate of Professional Development and the opportunity to receive credit toward future higher-education pursuits.
What is the time commitment?
The Biosecurity Academy takes place during the initial onboarding window, between November 2026 and March 2027. DAB will determine exact dates and times once cohort participants are selected.
Contact Us
For more information about the Biosecurity Academy, contact the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity:
Phone: 808-973-9560
Email: DAB.INFO@hawaii.gov