Ocean Job Board
0
Organizations
0
Jobs
Naturalist
Pacific Whale Foundation incorporated
Wailuku, HI, USA
Posted on Feb 24, 2026
Come work for one of Hawai’i’s Best Places to Work in 2024!
Are you great with people, passionate about the environment and seeking a relaxed, fun workplace, and wish to be a part of something bigger? We’d love to hear from you!
Position: Naturalist, Seasonal Full Time, Non-Exempt
Location: On-site, Ma'alaea Harbor, Maui, HI
Pay: Starting at $16.20/hour based on skills/experience + commissions and tips
About Us:
Pacific Whale Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to our mission of protecting the ocean through science and advocacy. Since 1980, we have made a significant impact on marine environments and wildlife across the Pacific region, including Hawaii, Japan and Australia. Our Mission is to inspire environmental stewardship and promote ocean conservation.
What We Offer:
- Competitive pay with potential earnings through commission sales and tips
- Comprehensive benefits including PTO, health insurance and 401(k) for eligible employees
- Free Ecotours
- A fun, relaxed environment
Role Overview:
The Naturalist reports to the Vessel Staff Manager and works under the Captain’s direction. This role supports safe vessel navigation and operations, ensures passenger safety, and provides engaging scientific education on Hawaiʻi’s geology, geography, natural history, ecology, culture, and marine life departing from Ma'alaea Harbor, supporting the mission of Pacific Whale Foundation. The Naturalist promotes appreciation and protection of whales, dolphins, coral reefs, and oceans while delivering exceptional service and assisting with additional crew duties as needed.
Key Responsibilities:
Maintain working knowledge of vessel systems and safety procedures; participate in drills and comply with USCG Substance Abuse Policy
Ensure passenger safety through situational awareness, lifeguarding, and first aid
Assist with docking, mooring, line handling, and general crew duties
Deliver outstanding guest service with professionalism and strong program knowledge
Perform daily vessel cleaning and maintenance as assigned
Promote PWF’s mission, vision, and values; inspire passenger engagement
Support community outreach, education, and conservation activities
Stay current on PWF marine research and programs
Assist with guest check-in, waivers, reservations, supply management, laundry, and related administrative tasks (training provided, including FareHarbor)
Maintain vessel supplies and assist with food and beverage service
Provide educational presentations on Hawaiʻi’s geology, geography, natural history, ecology, culture, and marine life
Attend Dry Dock
Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- BA or BS from an accredited institution; studies in Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or Environmental Science (preferred)
- Experience with marine education and interpretation, and experience working on boats (preferred)
- First Aid/CPR, Lifeguard, Oxygen and AED certifications, and Maui Bar Card holder required within 3 months of hire
- Lifeguarding experience (preferred)
Why Join Us?
The work you do with Pacific Whale Foundation directly supports our mission to protect the ocean and promote environmental stewardship. This is more than just a job-it's an opportunity to contribute to meaningful change while enjoying a rewarding and supportive work environment.
Pacific Whale Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.
Pacific Whale Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, marital status, arrest and court record, domestic or sexual violence victim status, reproductive health decision-making, credit history, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law.
We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace.
If you require reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact us at HRDepartment@pacificwhale.org.
All applicants are subject to a background check and pre-employment drug testing and must be able to comply with DOT/USCG random drug testing requirements. Within 30 days of employment, must obtain CPR/First Aid certification, oxygen/AED certification, lifeguard certification, Hawai’i bar card, and TB clearance.