Conservation Leadership Development Program - Paid, 6-month Program, Entry-level opportunity

To be considered for available positions, please apply online via the provided portal: https://kupuhawaii.tfaforms.net/262 

Kupu, Hawai‘i’s leading environmental non-profit is seeking individuals who are dedicated to improving and preserving Hawai‘i’s natural resources and cultural landscape.

Opportunity Overview: 

The Seasonal Conservation Leadership Development Program (CLDP) is an 6-month paid opportunity, that has been developed for individuals looking for an intensive entry-level experience in preparation for a career in conservation. This year, Kupu has partnered with over 100 different sites throughout the State of Hawai‘i and throughout the wider Pacific. If successfully selected, participants are partnered with a single partner site for the duration of the program. These sites consist of local non-profit organizations, federal agencies and state agencies. All of whom are working within the framework of conserving their unique natural environment, to ensure that is maintained and enjoyed for future generations.

Program Duration

• Oahu - January 16, 2023 - july 1, 2023 
• Hawai‘I Island, Maui, Kaua‘i, Molokai - January 30, 2023 - July 15, 2023 
• US Pacific Territories - February 13, 2023 - July 29, 2023 

Opportunities

This year’s cohort, as in previous years will be provided with a wide range of opportunities throughout the Hawaiian Islands, over many different disciplines relating to conservation. Due to the nature of this program, in addition to the large amount of partner sites, there are opportunities within fields relating to ornithology, botany, natural resource management, aquatic resource management, biology, marine biology, Hawaiian cultural studies, zoology, agricultural science and more.

For examples of these opportunities check out our member spotlights on our Instagram: @kupuhawaii

Responsibilities

Participants serve one-on-one with a mentor/supervisor to gain a more in-depth understanding of their partner organization or agency as a whole. Expect to assist in a variety of conservation activities and across a wide range of ecosystems. Day to day operations may include fieldwork, lab work, research projects, presentations, outreach or leading volunteer groups.

Site-specific position information will be provided during the next stage of selection, participants can expect to begin immediately after the program start date and to participate in program activities from Monday through Friday, with the possibility of occasional weekends *site dependent. Due to the individual nature of the Conservation Leadership Development Program and the length of the service term, members are held to a high degree of personal responsibility. On a monthly basis, CLDP members are expected to check in with Kupu program coordinators, and must maintain a record of their efforts.

Why this program?

Through completing this program members will gain invaluable field experience, have the opportunity to build close relationships and network with conservation experts. While simultaneously, developing their own personal skills in the areas of leadership, organization, and decision-making. Participant will have the unique chance to operate and serve in some of the most stunning natural locations in Hawai‘i and leave a positive impact on them.

Benefits

• Up to $2,000 monthly living allowance* and a $3,247.50 AmeriCorps Education Award (Similar to a scholarship, can be used towards student loans)
• On the job training - *Specific to each host site. e.g. First Aid Certification, Chainsaw Certification, Helicopter safety training
• Opportunity to gain extensive knowledge about a single or handful of organizations within a specific field
• An in-depth learning experience and further awareness of specific environmental issues localized to the region of service
• Opportunity to serve side-by-side a supervisor and potential future employer
• Child care, health care, and loan deferment available for eligible applicants
• Week-long Service Trip with other Kupu Conservation Leadership members to unique are such as (Midway Atoll, Kaho‘olawe, Waipa and others)
• Opportunity to further develop valuable career and life skills
• And most important of all, an opportunity to protect Hawaii’s natural resources and to make a lasting positive impact within the community

*Living allowances are subject to taxes and are paid bi-weekly over eleven months. Should in special cases, the position last less than eleven months, the living allowance will be prorated appropriately. Living allowances are awarded at the above stated amount and are not dependent on hours served.

This year’s priority deadline for applications is January 01, 2023. Applications will remain live until all partner site positions are filled with suitable applicants.

Applicant Requirements

• Citizenship - Applicants must be one of the following: a US Citizen, US National, or Lawful Permanent Resident Alien (due to AmeriCorps regulations).
• Criminal History Check – Applicants are subject to a criminal history check.
• Housing/Transportation - Applicants must coordinate their own personal housing and transportation arrangements on-island.
• Physical & Behavioral Requirements - Due to the nature of this program, the physical and behavioral demands described below are representative of those that must be met by a member to successfully perform the essential functions of this program.
• Prohibited Activities – AmeriCorps members will not participate in any prohibited activities as defined in their Member Service Agreement, if hired.

*Willing and able to operate for extended hours on steep, rugged terrain; during temperature extremes. Able to hike long distances carrying a 20 lb backpack. Able to lift 30+ lbs, and operate basic hand tools (machetes, shovels, picks, etc). Able to operate and camp in remote locations with minimal facilities. Able to serve closely, interact according to Kupu’s core values and expectations, and camp with agency field crews for consecutive days and weeks if necessary.

How to Apply

1. Complete the Online Application -The online application can be completed via the following portal: https://kupuhawaii.tfaforms.net/262
2. Provide your personal resume and two references
3. Follow-up with provided references - Upon submitting your application, please notify your references, as they will receive an email containing a link to complete an electronic reference form. It is your responsibility that these forms are submitted. If they are not received, your application will be considered incomplete. If you would like to check your application status Email: conservation@kupuhawaii.org.

Guidelines for References

All references should come from professional sources such as coaches, bosses, teachers, groups you’ve volunteered with. References should not include immediate family members or close friends. References should have the ability to speak to your personal and professional attributes.

*Kupu is committed to making reasonable accommodations upon request for those with disabilities.

For details please contact Kupu Recruiting Specialist, Anna Garcia at EMAIL: outreach@kupuhawaii.org