Join our Team

We are the largest Hawai'i-based non-profit marine species response, rescue and conservation organization, covering the islands of O'ahu and Molokai with our team of dedicated and hard-working volunteers, interns and staff. Our team spends thousands of hours each year responding to calls involving protected marine species such as Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles and seabirds to provide shoreline response, stranding assistance, outreach, health management, rescue and rehabilitation. Our work helps save these animals from deaths and injuries caused by hookings, entanglement, disease, and other human-caused threats. This extensive presence in the field, combined with regular outreach and education activity at community events and public venues allows us to engage with tens of thousands of people each year to build understanding, stewardship and support for Hawai'i’s protected marine species and the coastal ecosystem we share.

Be a Volunteer

Our volunteers are at the core of our work. Without these dedicated individuals we could not do the work we do.  Are you physically fit and able to commit to certain minimum volunteer activity levels to help save Hawaii’s protected species such as the Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles and seabirds? If so, CLICK HERE TO LEARN ABOUT EACH HMAR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM to better understand the activities and expectations of a volunteer in each program. After reviewing our different programs, you can submit a volunteer application.

Apply as a Volunteer

Be an Intern

If you are a degreed or degree-seeking individual engaged in fields of study such as marine biology, ecology, ocean sciences or related fields, we offer great internship opportunities in our Field Operations Program (FOP) or our Protected Species Monitoring Monitoring Program (PSMP).

As an intern, it is important to note:

  • The majority of internships are unpaid positions that do not include housing or living expenses. HMAR does not provide any housing or transportation. 
  • Internships require a 6-month commitment and a weekly minimum of 21 hours.
  • Full-time internships are also available.
  • All internships require access to a reliable car or truck. Motorcycles or scooters are not acceptable due to the nature of the work involved.
  • Internships can be applied as college credit if your institution allows. Interns are responsible for coordinating the requirements for college credit.
  • Interns are responsible for acquiring their own needed equipment such as binoculars, hiking shoes, vehicle, fuel, camera, and other materials outlined in our applications.
  • Interns must be 18 years of age, be a U.S. citizen or hold applicable visas, and be very fluent in the English language.
  • All interns must be capable of strenuous physical activity due to the nature of field activities. Interns must be able to walk for at least 3 miles in sandy/rocky shorelines, able to carry 75 pounds for at least 100 feet, be able to swim in the ocean, and capable of working in variable weather conditions.
  • You will need to submit a CV/resume, cover letter, and provide three references as part of your application process.
  • Interns must also provide documentation showing full COVID-19 vaccination status (at least initial vaccination and at least one booster).
  • Due to the nature of HMAR’s activities, it’s essential that interns can maintain a calm demeanor in stressful situations, enjoy communicating with the public, are able to work as part of a team, and are eager to learn new skills.

Click below to learn more about each internship program, what work you will be doing, the minimum requirements, and to apply.

Apply as an Intern

Employment Opportunities

When we have an open staff position, that information is posted on our Facebook page so please check there for more information.