Working at UH Mānoa, your next career step!

🌺 Overview of Jobs at University of Hawaii - Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Mānoa), located in Honolulu, Hawaii, is the flagship campus of the University of Hawaiʻi system and a premier public research university. Nestled in the Manoa Valley with views of the Pacific Ocean and volcanic peaks, it attracts professionals seeking jobs at University of Hawaii - Manoa for its unique blend of academic excellence and island lifestyle. As a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant institution, UH Mānoa offers diverse opportunities in higher ed jobs, from faculty and research positions to administrative roles. With over 20,000 students and 1,000 faculty, the university employs thousands in roles supporting its mission of education, research, and service to Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region.

Jobs at University of Hawaii - Manoa span colleges like the College of Natural Sciences, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), and the College of Education. The university's research expenditures exceed $50 million annually, funding positions in cutting-edge fields. Whether you're eyeing professor jobs or research assistant jobs, UH Mānoa emphasizes innovation, cultural relevance, and community impact.

History of UH Mānoa and Its Employment Landscape

Founded in 1907 as the College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, UH Mānoa evolved into a comprehensive university by 1931. Its growth mirrored Hawaii's transformation from territory to state in 1959, expanding to include programs in Hawaiian language and Pacific/Asian studies. Today, it ranks among top public universities for innovation and diversity. The employment history reflects this expansion: early faculty focused on agriculture, now encompassing global research hubs like the Institute for Astronomy, which manages world-class telescopes on Mauna Kea.

Over decades, jobs at University of Hawaii - Manoa have grown with federal grants for space and ocean research. The 1970s saw a boom in tenure-track positions due to land-grant status, while recent years emphasize sustainability and indigenous knowledge, creating specialized roles. This rich history makes UH Mānoa a stable employer with strong union support for faculty through the University of Hawaiʻi Professional Assembly (UHPA).

Academic Programs and Departments Hiring at UH Mānoa

Types of Jobs at University of Hawaii - Manoa

Explore university job types at UH Mānoa, categorized as:

• Faculty Positions: Tenure-track assistant/associate/full professors, lecturers.
• Research Roles: Postdocs, research associates, technicians in labs.
• Administrative Jobs: Deans, directors, HR – see higher ed jobs/admin.
• Staff Positions: IT, facilities, student services.
• Executive Roles: Chancellors, provosts – check higher ed jobs/executive.

Seasonal adjunct and lecturer jobs are common, especially in tourism and Hawaiian studies.

Definitions

To understand jobs at University of Hawaii - Manoa, key terms include:

• Tenure-track: A faculty position leading to permanent employment after review, typically 5-7 years, based on teaching, research, and service.
• Sea-grant University: Designation for institutions excelling in marine research and extension, like UH Mānoa, funded by NOAA.
• Land-grant Institution: Public universities focused on agriculture, science, and engineering, originating from the 1862 Morrill Act.
• Postdoctoral Fellow (Postdoc): Temporary research role for recent PhD graduates to gain experience.
• Adjunct Professor: Part-time instructor without tenure benefits.

Required Academic Qualifications for Jobs at UH Mānoa

For faculty jobs at University of Hawaii - Manoa, a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., EdD for education, MD for medicine) in the relevant field is standard. Master's degrees suffice for some lecturer or staff roles. Research positions often require specific certifications, like IRB training for human subjects research.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed

UH Mānoa prioritizes expertise in Pacific/Asian studies, climate change, volcanology, and aquaculture. For SOEST roles, ocean modeling or coral reef ecology is key. Astronomy jobs demand telescope instrumentation skills. Link to postdoctoral success for thriving in these areas.

Preferred Experience

Employers favor candidates with peer-reviewed publications (5+ for assistant professors), grant funding (e.g., NSF, NIH), and teaching experience. Hawaii residency or Pacific research boosts chances. See research assistant tips adaptable here.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include grant writing, interdisciplinary collaboration, cultural competency in Native Hawaiian contexts, data analysis (R, Python), and mentoring diverse students. Soft skills: adaptability to island life, community engagement.

• Technical: GIS for environmental roles, MATLAB for engineering.
• Professional: Public speaking, project management.

Application Process and Tips

📋 Apply via recruitment portals like NeoGov or UH's site. Steps:

• Customize CV/cover letter highlighting UH alignment.
• Prepare research/teaching statements (2-3 pages).
• Secure 3-5 references.
• Practice virtual interviews; emphasize Hawaii commitment.

Tips: Use free resume template and cover letter template. Network at conferences like ASLO. Apply early; positions fill fast.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

UH Mānoa advances equity via the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Kōkua Kalihi Valley program for underserved communities, and Manoa Institutional Research on equity. It hosts the Imi Hoʻola Post-Baccalaureate Program for Native Hawaiians in medicine and boasts 50%+ underrepresented minority students.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

🏄 Employees enjoy 22 vacation days, sabbaticals every 7 years for faculty, and wellness programs. Campus life features hiking trails, farmers markets, hula performances, and proximity to Waikiki Beach. Honolulu's cost of living is high, but salaries adjust. Remote options limited, but flexible hours common. Family-friendly with on-campus childcare.

Summary

Jobs at University of Hawaii - Manoa offer unparalleled opportunities in a paradise setting. Explore higher ed jobs, get higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job to connect with talent. For branding tips, read employer branding secrets.