Naturalist

The mission of the Pacific Whale Foundation is to promote appreciation, understanding and protection of whales, dolphins, coral reefs and our planet's oceans. We accomplish this by educating the public -- from a scientific perspective -- about the marine environment. We support and conduct responsible marine research and address marine conservation issues in Hawaii and the Pacific. Through educational ecotours, we model and promote sound ecotourism practices and responsible wildlife watching.

Responsibilities:

• Educate passengers about Hawaii's geology, geography, natural history, ecology, culture, and all aspects of marine life  
• Continue to improve presentations by researching and implementing new material on all subjects  
• Interact with passengers throughout trip and initiate "teachable moments"  
• Provide a high level of customer service while maintaining professionalism at all times  
• Work as a team with other crew members, Team Leaders and Captains to ensure vessel and company goals are met on a daily basis  
• Support the efforts of the Team Leader and Captain on a daily basis  
• Clean and maintain vessel as required, pre- and post-trip  
• Participate in vessel maintenance projects  
• Learn vessel systems, safety requirements and procedures, and participate in vessel drills on regular basis  
• Food and beverage service on snorkel, whale watch, and dinner cruises  
• Participate in vessel inventory and ordering supplies  
• Demonstrate professionalism, positive attitude and strong work ethic  
• Free dive more than 30 feet  
• Ensure passenger safety through constant situational awareness and active lifeguarding  
• Improve seamanship skills and knowledge of vessel systems and maintenance 
• Participate in professional development opportunities and PWF education, outreach or conservation activities

Requirements:

• Ability to produce valid documentation to prove eligibility to work in the U.S.   
• Must adhere to company policies  
• Must pass pre-employment drug test ($55) and random drug screening program  
• Must pass pre-employment background check  
• Bachelor's degree (B.S. or B.A. in Natural Sciences preferred)

Preferred Qualifications for Hire:

Knowledge

• Studies in Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology, and Environmental Science preferred  
• Familiar with Hawaii's marine environment  
• Previous experience on boats and marine education/interpretation  
• CPR, First Aid and Oxygen Administration certifications

Skills

• People-oriented with strong communication skills  
• Public speaking experience  
• Positive attitude, enthusiastic and outgoing  
• Flexible and team player  
• Self-motivated and strong work ethic

Abilities

• Ability to present clear and concise information orally  
• Ability to present educational material to a wide variety of audiences  
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic team setting, demonstrating sensitivity to diversity and multiple working styles  
• Ability to take direction and complete tasks  
• Capable of working long hours in physically challenging environment  
• Able-bodied: Lift > 50 pounds with frequent bending and squatting  
• Strong swimmer, able to free dive, and lifeguarding experience preferred

To Apply:

Qualified candidates, please send a cover letter and resume by email.