Overview
Kupu Trail Crew Member Jobs in Kailua-Kona, HI at Kupu
Kupu Trail Crews Member Position Description
Program Overview
The Kupu Trail Crews provide hands-on restoration service focused on sustaining safe public access to trail systems while supporting the health of Hawaiʻi’s forests. This year, the program will focus on maintaining and improving trail access, protecting and reforesting areas with native plants, and managing invasive species that block trail pathways and surrounding ecosystems. As a vital part of a Kupu Trail Crew, Members will gain experience in fieldwork, teamwork, and place-based stewardship.
Service Locations and Position Availability
Service Locations: There will be two Kupu Trail Crews this program year; their work will focus on trails across Oʻahu and the Kona side of Hawaiʻi Island.
Position Availability: Full-time (40 hours per week) for an 8-month program term.
Position Responsibilities
Day-to-day service will include maintaining, clearing, and rebuilding trails to support safe and sustainable access for hikers, stewards, and conservation partners. Crew members may remove vegetation and debris from trail corridors, repair trail tread and drainage features, assist with erosion control, support native plant protection and reforestation efforts, and help manage invasive species in and around priority trail areas. Members should be prepared for physically demanding outdoor work in varied terrain and weather conditions, while following direction from Kupu staff and applicable safety protocols.
Crew Members are expected to:
- Conduct oneself with aloha and drive Kupu’s culture.
- Conduct oneself with integrity, credibility, professionalism, and commitment to Kupu’s mission.
- Follow the schedule set by the Crew Supervisor and Crew Lead, which may include evening or weekend service, extended fieldwork, or camping depending on placement needs.
- Attend Crew-specific training and complete all program requirements.
- Assist in daily trail maintenance operations and ensure worksite safety.
- Maintain open and consistent communication with supervisors.
- Uphold compliance with safety standards and organizational expectations.
Eligibility and Member Requirements
- Age – Applicants must be above the age of 17
- Citizenship – Applicants must be a US Citizen, US National, US Permanent Resident, or otherwise legally allowed to work in the United States.
- Housing/Transportation – Applicants must provide their own personal housing and transportation arrangements on-island.
- Experience – Preference for applicants with at least three months experience in previous conservation-related internships or positions.
- Physical & Behavioral Requirements – Due to the nature of Kupu’s programs, the physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing, to receive and convey information, and respond appropriately in routine and emergency situations
- Walk, stand, and hike on uneven, steep, muddy, rocky, and remote terrain for extended periods
- Lift, carry, push, and pull up to 25 lbs. on a regular basis, and occasionally up to 50 lbs. with or without assistance
- Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, wind, and prolonged sun exposure
- Work in environments that may include dust, insects, dense vegetation, and other hazards
- Repetitive use of hands, arms, and shoulders
- Safely operate hand tools, power tools, and field equipment safely
- Wear and utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Meet and maintain regular, punctual attendance
Program Benefits
- Hourly wage: $20 per hour
- Paid Time Off: 80 hours
- Retention Bonus: $800
- Health coverage is available
- Training: Upon successful hiring, Crew Members will receive relevant training for the position such as Sustainable Trail Maintenance, Wilderness First Aid & CPR, Chainsaw, Native Plant Identification, and OSHA 30-Hour training.
- Networking: Participation in service projects and networking opportunities with conservation professionals and partner organizations.
- Career Development: Members are supported throughout their service term with professional development opportunities, including résumé and cover letter assistance, interview preparation, and job search support to aid their transition into future educational and career pathways.
Program Dates
Cohort 1 – October Start
- 8/14/26: Recommended Member Application Deadline
- 8/17/26 – 9/4/26: Interview Period
- 9/7/26: Offer Week Begins
- 10/5/26: Start Date, Member Orientation
How toApply
Complete the Kupu Program Participant Application: kupuhawaii.tfaforms.net/353
Please note that this is a common application for multiple Kupu programs, so please review the program interest section carefully.
Pay: $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Title: Kupu Trail Crew Member
Company: Kupu
Location: Kailua-Kona, HI
Category:
