Work on a Whale Watching Boat in Hawaii

Nobody can shed a light on the cruise industry hiring process better than company hiring managers. Here's our exclusive interview with a human resources manager at the Pacific Whale Foundation. Is this the company for you? Do you have what it takes to get hired? Find out! Become a CruiseJobFinder Member to access the entire interview.

Interview Excerpt

Become a Member to Access the Entire Interview

Describe what your company does. What is your role in the staffing process?

The Foundation is a non-profit organization offering educational, eco-focused cruises and tours around Hawaii that aim to inform people about the natural habitats. The eco-adventure cruises we offer have won awards. We offer sunset cruises, dinner cruises, snorkel cruises, whale and dolphin cruises, raft cruises, holiday and special cruises, and more. I review applications and schedule interviews.

What are some of the common job titles you advertise for?

Naturalists and pursers are needed all year round. Crew, servers, and bar tenders are frequently needed as well.

What are some of the selling points you use to get people onboard to work with your company?

We offer competitive salary, great benefits and the opportunity to do meaningful work in a dynamic organization with lots of growth potential.

How many seasonal staff do you typically hire, and for which positions?

We hire lots of seasonal staff for the tours, mainly as assistants, servers, and crew.

Do you have a lot of college students working for you? If yes, then what attracts them to your jobs?

Yes, just the pure love of nature attracts them - it gives them the sense of having a dream job, and is something that they will remember forever.

Describe your perfect candidate. How can someone best make a great first impression with you?

We need people who love the environment and who can work on a team easily. You must be pleasant, well dressed, well spoken, and confident.

What are the typical terms of employment offered?

We offer full time, part time and temporary positions. All applicants must undergo a drug screening test and agree to a full background check.

Are there any benefits or perks that your employees enjoy?

Drug, Medical, Dental, Vision and Alternative Medicine Insurance, Paid Holidays, Vacation, Retirement Savings Plan, Sick Leave, Merchandise Discounts - Up to 40% off at our retail stores, Complimentary Cruises as well as other incentives and bonuses.

Does your company provide any training? If yes, can you describe what it entails?

We train employees in customer service and help them with customer relations skills.

What type of person gravitates towards these jobs?

People that come to us are generally there to learn and to be part of an exciting eco tour. People who like to travel, who enjoy adventure, and who like learning about and researching wildlife and marine life will suit these jobs.

 

Become a Member to Access the Entire Interview