
Kupu ‘Āina Corps (KAC)
Kupu ʻĀina Corps (KAC) is a workforce development initiative established through the State of Hawaiʻi’s legislation for a Green Jobs Youth Corps. This program employs individuals seeking experience in Hawaiʻi’s environmental sector. Through Kupu’s extensive network of partner organizations, these paid opportunities include positions across Hawai’i in sustainability, agriculture, environmental technology and other green job fields.
"I joined Kupu ʻĀina Corps because I wanted a job where I could serve a greater purpose." - Ashley, 2023 Participant
KAC 2025-2026 Applications are NOW OPEN!
Still curious about the program? Join our virtual info session to have your questions answered!
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Program Information:
Based on Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Maui, Molokaʻi, O’ahu
Entry- to intermediate-level positions for individuals who want to build a career in the green jobs sector
Program term options
Part-time (20 hours per week) or full-time (40 hours per week)
For a 6-month or 12-month program term
The peak season to apply is from August 4th through November 14th!
The best time to apply is at the start of the program year, when the most opportunities are available. To maximize your chances at selection, we strongly encourage you to submit your application by November 14.
Review our Things to Consider for answers to Frequently Asked Questions!
KAC Host Sites
KAC Participants are selected to serve with a Host Site (partner organization) that is best aligned with their goals and interests.
Kupu is selecting Host Site partners throughout the month of August. Once confirmed, a list of available Host Sites will be provided here.
Benefits:
Opportunities to receive resume-building certifications and network with potential future employers
$20 hourly wage
Medical insurance (for employees working 20+ hours)
Retention bonus
$200 to $800 depending on term selection
Paid time off
20 to 120 hours depending on term selection
Qualifications
Most positions require that participants be between the ages of 17 to 38 for the duration of the program term to be eligible for participation.
A small selection of positions will not have an upper age limit.
Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, U.S. Permanent Resident, or otherwise legally allowed to work in the United States.
Applicants must be responsible for their own personal housing and transportation arrangements on-island.
Applicants are not required to have previous experience in the environmental sector, although prior experience may be preferred for some positions.
Contact us at kac@kupuhawaii.org for more information.
Participant application here!
Attend Kupu's Virtual Interview Skills Workshop to sharpen your skills and boost your confidence!
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KAC Host Site Applications for the 2025-2026 program year are now open:
KAC Host Site Information Session: August 22, 12 pm to 1 pm
Program Timeline
DLNR Host Site priority application deadline: August 8, 2025
General Host Site priority application deadline: August 29, 2025
Host Sites can be:
For-profit organizations
Non-profit organizations
State and county government agencies
Host Sites’ focuses may fall under the following categories:
Agriculture & Food Systems
Aquatic Resource Management
Community Outreach & Education
Environmental Technologies & Renewable Energy
Invasive Species Removal
Native Hawaiian Cultural Stewardship
Native Plant/Wildlife Conservation
Trail Restoration
And much, much, more!
Benefits
Organizations can increase their capacity at a highly subsidized rate
Majority of the employment costs (i.e., wages, benefits, employment taxes, etc.) will be covered by Kupu ʻĀina Corps
Increase the capacity of the Hawaiʻi green jobs sector through your organization!
Host Site Fees:
6-month Program Term
Part-Time, $20 hourly wage: $6,000.00
Full-Time, $20 hourly wage: $12,000.00
12-month Program Term
Part-Time, $20 hourly wage: $12,000.00
Full-Time, $20 hourly wage: $24,000.00
DLNR Sites, please contact kac@kupuhawaii.org for more information
Host Site's Role:
Host Sites serve as direct supervisors and mentors to the participants. Participants should report to the site’s designated supervisor daily. Site supervisors are expected to provide support and mentorship to all program participants, including but limited to the following:
Provide historical and cultural background on site as applicable
Act as role models and provide hands-on mentorship, instruction, and guidance
Assist in preparing necessary training, tools, equipment, and logistics for projects
Be conscientious of participants safety and safety conditions.
Provide an educational, healthy, and safe environment for the participants
Conduct timely and open communication with Kupu Staff
Provide safe projects that are reasonable to the skill level/comfort level of participants
Provide meaningful projects that are assisting Hawaii’s Green Job economy as well as contributing to participant growth
Conduct performance evaluations for each participant, approve participant timesheets and offer supervision.
Kupu’s Role:
Host Sites will be assigned a Kupu Program Coordinator, who will be your point of contact and help you successfully complete your program duration. They will be available as a coach and advisor to both you and participants.
Contact kac@kupuhawaii.org for more information.
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Key Objectives
Provide paid, career-building employment: Opportunities for individuals who are seeking alternative career opportunities in the green jobs sector.
Improve credentials: Strengthen participants’ skills and add important credentials to their resumes.
Make a difference! Kupu ‘Āina Corps aims to help Hawaiʻi’s amazing government, non-profit, and for-profit entities receive essential work and expand the capacity of our green economy.
The Kupu ‘Āina Corps is an initiative resulting from funds made accessible from the State Legislation HB1176 – Green Jobs Youth Corps. Mahalo to our partners for approving funding to make this program possible.