The Crew Lead provides strategic and operational leadership for Kupu’s Crew Programming. This position oversees all crew operations across multiple islands, including contract implementation, staff supervision, budget management, reporting, safety oversight, and program development. The Crew Lead works closely with internal departments and external partners to ensure high-quality field operations and long-term program growth. The work schedule for this position is five days a week, approximately eight hours a day.
Position Goals
Ensure successful implementation and oversight of all crew operations and contractual obligations
Develop and strengthen Kupu’s crew service model, policies, procedures, and training systems
Support staff and crew development through leadership, mentorship, and operational oversight
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
Conduct oneself with aloha and drive Kupu’s culture
Conduct oneself with integrity, credibility, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to Kupu’s mission
Directly supervise Crew Supervisors and provide regular coaching, evaluations, and support
Manage crew program budgets, reporting requirements, and contract deliverables
Coordinate with Member & Partner Care, Workforce Development, and Budget & Agreements teams
Travel regularly between islands to conduct field reviews, safety inspections, and quality assurance
Develop and maintain crew program policies, procedures, training systems, and service models
Support future business development, fundraising, and partnership-building activities
Represent crew programming in departmental and organizational meetings
Approve expenses and oversee operational purchasing
Monitor adherence to safety standards, organizational policies, and client expectations
Support incident response and operational problem solving as needed
Provide guidance to Crew Supervisors as they coach Crew Members through growth and challenges
Collaborate with Recruiting Manager in recruiting for member positions
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of experience and education in a related field
Experience managing teams, overseeing and/or being a part of field operations, or workforce development programs
Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
Ability to travel regularly between islands
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in conservation, trail maintenance, or natural resource management.
Experience with contract administration and budget oversight.
Experience or past participation in Kupu programs
Knowledge of Hawaiʻi communities, conservation systems, and workforce development.
Experience developing training programs, policies, or operational systems.
Physical and Communication 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.
Safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
Communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing, to provide direction, receive and convey information, complete documentation, and respond appropriately in routine and emergency situations
Effectively supervise, lead, and mentor crew members; communicate clear expectations; provide coaching and performance feedback; promote safe work practices; and foster a positive, productive, and mission-driven team environment
Walk, stand, and hike on uneven, steep, muddy, rocky, and remote terrain for extended periods
Lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis, and occasionally more with 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 consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards
