Job Details

Application deadline: July 19, 11:59pm HST applications received after this time may not be considered.Position SummaryWe're looking for our next Cloud Forest Naturalist: someone who wants to spend their days in the forest, master the art of guiding, and grow into a more present, connected version of themselves while helping guests do the same.As a Cloud Forest Naturalist, you'll be KCFS's front-line educator, guide, and host for our legacy forest tour, leading guests through the Sanctuary and interpreting Hawaii's ecology and cultural context in a way that goes beyond a typical nature walk.This outdoors-first, guest-facing role typically runs 34 days and ~20 hours/week, with more hours available based on booking volume and season. After six months, you can train into specialty tours like birding and forest bathing, with room to progress into Naturalist II, Naturalist III, and other specialized roles as tenure, performance, and opportunity allow.What Youll DoGuiding & Guest ExperienceLead our legacy forest tour, interpreting the Sanctuary's ecology, conservation work, and Hawaii's geological, human, and cultural history in a way that's engaging, accurate, and accessible to guests of all ages and backgroundsFacilitate the experience, not just narrate it. Read the group, adjust pacing, and create space for guests to genuinely connect with the forest and each otherProvide a safe, welcoming experience from check-in through check-out, including retail sales support and reservations assistanceSupport retail operations: point-of-sale, merchandise presentation, and representing KCFS's offerings to guestsSanctuary StewardshipSupport trail care, forest maintenance, and general upkeep of the grounds and facilitiesSupport other onsite operations as neededTeam & GrowthShow up reliably and professionally punctuality and follow-through matter here as much as charismaParticipate fully in KCFS's training programs and ongoing development sessionsCommunicate effectively and transparently with team members and managementBring feedback and ideas to the team; this is a small ohana-style operation, and your perspective shapes how we growUphold KCFS values, safety standards, policies, and cultural respect guidelinesHow We Set You Up to SucceedWe provide comprehensive training in Hawaii's ecology, natural and cultural history, and interpretive guiding technique. Prior guiding experience is a plus, not a requirement. What matters most is genuine curiosity, coachability, and a real willingness to keep learning. Every guide receives regular, structured feedback and coaching as a standing part of the role, supporting your growth well beyond onboarding.What Youll GainThis role is genuinely a training ground, not just a job description that claims to be one:Master-level interpretive guiding skills storytelling, group facilitation, and the craft of facilitating transformational experiences in nature that go beyond simply delivering informationOngoing mentorship from KCFS's owners who are also expert transformational facilitators and coaches developing your voice, presence, and embodied leadershipDeep connection skills with people from anywhere our guests come from all over the world, and you'll build a genuine ability to connect across culture, age, and backgroundA direct hand in conservation your work supports the continued stewardship of a cloud forest sanctuary that's been in active restoration for 45 years, with ripple effects on how guests relate to nature long after they leaveCompensation & BenefitsTotal Earning Potential: $3036/hour on a typical single-tour day, up to $45+/hour on two-tour days based on current team averages for tips and commission, combined with base wage.Base Wage: $22.00$25.00/hour, based on demonstrated performance and competence upon completion of trainingTraining Period (first 4 weeks): $20.00/hourProbationary Period: 3 months from hire date, during which fit and performance are evaluatedGuide Tips: 100% of tips from experiences you lead independently our guides currently average $4050 in tips per tourSales Commission: 5% on all experience sales closed in person or over the phoneBenefits: Available for all qualified Full-Time team members (3540 hours/week)Required QualificationsResident of Kona, HawaiiReliable transportationA real willingness to learn and growStrong verbal communication and storytelling skills, with a warm, engaging presenceComfortable working outdoors in adverse weather on uneven terrain for extended periodsThrives working independently without constant direct supervisionExcellent communicator that thrives in small team dynamicsFlexible with last minute plan changes and ability respond calmly as neededGenuine alignment with KCFSs mission. This is meaningful, impact-driven work, and were looking for people who feel that, not just people looking for a guiding gigOpenness to regular coaching and feedback as a normal, ongoing part of the rolePhysical ability to walk and stand for extended periods and lift/carry up to 50 lbsAbility to complete KCFSs guide training and certification processDesire to guide up to 2 - 3 experiences per day in the SanctuaryBasic digital literacy (email, scheduling tools, Google Workspace, FareHarbor)Availability to work mornings, afternoons, weekends, and holidays as operationally requiredPreferred QualificationsPrior experience in Hawaii as a nature guide, environmental educator, interpretive guide, or in a related teaching/facilitation roleExperience facilitating wellness/mindfulness/transformational experiences in natureDegree in natural sciences, environmental studies, education, or a related fieldKnowledge of Hawaiian history, native ecosystems, and cultural valuesCurrent CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain well support this)Working ConditionsPrimarily outdoors, including walking on uneven forest terrainSmall retail trail shopExposure to rain, sun, wind, and humidityRegular, dynamic interaction with guests, staff, and the publicTo ApplyApply through this posting. Both a cover letter and a resume are required to qualify for interview consideration applications missing either will not move forward.Learn more about our mission and what we offer at www.KonaCloudForest.com.Equal Opportunity & Employment AcknowledgmentKona Consciousness LLC, dba Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties may evolve based on operational needs, organizational priorities, individual skills, and business opportunities. KCFS may assign additional duties or special projects that support the organizations mission; doing so does not change the classification or at-will status of this position unless agreed to in writing.Employment with Kona Consciousness LLC, dba Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the Company at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.
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