Workforce Development Specialist
About The Position
The Workforce Development Specialist leads Pacific Whale Foundation’s youth workforce programs, primarily Ocean Career Quest, a career program for middle school students and high school interns. The specialist plans and runs the program, mentors interns, and develops partnerships with schools, employers, and the community. The role also supports education programs such as Ocean Camps and Keiki Whale Watch. This is a full-time, exempt position based at Pacific Whale Foundation headquarters in Māʻalaea, Maui, with occasional remote days. The annual pay range is $60,000 to $65,000, based on skills and experience.
Requirements
- At least 3 years of teaching, youth development, or career-readiness experience.
- At least 1 to 2 years of experience coordinating internships, work-based learning, or career pathway programs.
- Strong relationship-building, communication, and organizational skills.
- Comfort with public speaking and working with youth.
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Valid driver’s license from any state, a clean driving abstract, and ability to drive a 15-passenger van.
- CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguarding certifications, or ability to obtain them within 3 months of hire.
- Ability to pass background checks required to work with minors.
- Strong swimming ability and comfort on large vessels, in the ocean, and outdoors in all weather.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Flexibility for early mornings, long days, and weekends during peak season (January through July).
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Marine or Environmental Science, Social Sciences, Human Resources, or a related field.
- Experience supervising high school interns or managing mentor partnerships.
- Grant reporting experience.
- Environmental education experience in Hawaiʻi and knowledge of Hawaiian culture and place-based learning.
Responsibilities
- Lead Ocean Career Quest, including its middle school cohort and high school internship program.
- Design and teach career-readiness lessons on job skills and career paths.
- Help recruit, select, and place high school interns, then supervise them in safe, professional work settings.
- Build relationships with schools, families, mentors, employers, and community partners.
- Track program results and help prepare grant reports.
- Support Ocean Camps, Keiki Whale Watch, outreach events, and shared department duties.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
