Relocating to Hawaii is an exciting move — the lifestyle, the culture, the scenery — it’s something I wanted to do from childhood. But before you pack your bags, one of the smartest things you can do is secure employment ahead of time. Trust me, it makes the transition smoother and sets you up for success the moment your feet touch island soil. The islands are a small place. The potential for employment, especially gainful employment, is limited. Locking employment in prior to arrival is imperative.

Finding a job in Hawaii before moving might sound intimidating, especially from the mainland, but it’s very doable with the right strategy. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything from navigating local job boards to handling remote interviews and making connections in the community, all based on real, firsthand experience living in Hawaii.

Understand the Hawaiian Job Market

The job market in Hawaii has its own rhythm, shaped by both island culture and economic factors. Tourism is, unsurprisingly, the largest sector, you’ll find tons of opportunities in hospitality, events, travel services, and food and beverage. But beyond that, there’s a solid demand for professionals in healthcare, technology, education, construction, agriculture, and local/state government roles.

It’s worth noting that many employers prioritize candidates who already live in Hawaii, mainly due to high turnover from people who move to the islands unprepared for the cost of living or lifestyle. That said, employers *do* hire from the mainland, you just need to show that you’re serious and have done your homework. If you’ve already spent time on islands like Oʻahu, Big Island, or visited Maui or Kauaʻi, that familiarity will give you an edge. Be ready to have a discussion about your motivation for living in Hawaii and drop some local knowledge during the conversation.

Set Clear Employment Goals Before Relocating

Before applying for jobs, take a moment to define what you’re looking for. Are you open to working on any island, or do you have a specific one in mind? Oʻahu tends to have more corporate and administrative jobs, while the Big Island, Maui, and Kauaʻi lean more toward hospitality, healthcare, trades, and community-based roles.

It’s also important to match your job goals with your budget. The cost of living varies across islands, Honolulu is pricey, while Hilo is more affordable, for example. Decide if you’re looking for a full-time permanent role or if you’re okay starting with something temporary or part-time to get your foot in the door. And don’t forget to consider remote work, some employers may allow you to work remotely while you transition.

Build a Hawaii-Focused Resume and Cover Letter

When you’re applying from the mainland, your resume and cover letter need to work a little harder. As stated, many employers in Hawaii prefer candidates who already live on the islands, so it’s important to show you’re serious about relocating and that you understand the local culture.

In your cover letter, clearly state your intent to move and include a target relocation date. If you’ve spent extended periods of time on any of the islands, mention that, it demonstrates familiarity and commitment. Use language that reflects respect for the community and the values of local employers.

Your resume should highlight skills that resonate in Hawaii: adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and community engagement are big pluses. For service and hospitality jobs, showcasing patience, teamwork, and a genuine customer-first attitude can make you stand out.

Leverage Hawaii-Based Job Boards and Hiring Sites

Relying only on national job boards can limit your options. Hawaii has several well-used local job platforms that regularly post listings from employers who may not advertise elsewhere.

Here are some trusted Hawaii-specific job boards to check:

You can still use national job platforms like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, or LinkedIn, but make sure to set the job location filter to “Hawaii” and enable alerts. Roles can get filled quickly, especially in the service and tourism sectors.

Optimize Your LinkedIn for Hawaii-Based Searches

LinkedIn can be surprisingly effective for Hawaii job searches, but you need to tailor your profile strategically.

First, update your location to Hawaii. You don’t have to wait until you move, set it to “Honolulu, HI” or your target island now to increase visibility with local recruiters. Then, adjust your “Open to Work” preferences to show you’re looking in Hawaii and open to remote opportunities or relocation.

Next, connect with Hawaii-based professionals and companies. Follow local businesses, hospitality brands, nonprofits, and government pages. You can also search for and join Hawaii-specific LinkedIn groups. Engaging with posts related to the islands can increase your credibility and help you make meaningful connections.

Network with Local Professionals and Communities

Networking plays a huge role in finding a job in Hawaii, more than you might expect. Many opportunities are shared through word of mouth, especially in smaller communities or niche industries. The good news? You don’t have to live on the islands yet to start building those connections.

Start by joining online communities that are Hawaii-focused. Here are a few great options:

  • Islander Ohana – An online cohort geared toward people moving to and living in Hawaii.
  • Hawaii-specific Facebook groups for job seekers and industry professionals
  • Local forums or subreddits like r/Hawaii where people post job leads and advice
  • Slack or Discord communities related to tech, design, or creative industries in Hawaii
  • LinkedIn groups dedicated to Hawaii’s professional or alumni networks

You can also attend virtual networking events or webinars hosted by local organizations. Many of Hawaii’s professional associations, like the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii or Hawaii Society of Professional Engineers, host public events, which are perfect for meeting potential employers or mentors.

Work with Hawaii-Based Recruiters and Employment Agencies

If you’re serious about finding a job before you move, connecting with a local recruiter can make a huge difference. They know what employers are looking for and can help you navigate common roadblocks mainland candidates face.

Some reputable Hawaii-based recruiters and staffing agencies include:

When you reach out, be clear about your relocation plans and the type of work you’re looking for. Good recruiters will guide you on resume improvements, interview prep, and even housing or cost-of-living questions if they’ve worked with other relocating candidates.

Prepare for Remote Job Interviews

Remote interviews are now standard practice for many companies, including those in Hawaii. That’s great news if you’re applying from the mainland. But it also means you need to be prepared to make a strong impression, virtually.

Here are a few key things to focus on:

  • Time zones: Be mindful of the time difference. Hawaii doesn’t observe daylight saving time, so plan accordingly. Want to know what time it is in Hawaii? Click Here
  • Professional setup: Have good lighting, a stable internet connection, and a quiet space. It shows respect for the process.
  • Address relocation head-on: Let them know your timeline, and that you’re committed to the move. Offer flexibility, some companies appreciate candidates who can start remotely and transition in-person later.

You might also get questions like: “Why Hawaii?” or “Have you visited before?”, these aren’t just small talk. Employers want to make sure you’re not only qualified, but that you’ll actually stay long-term. Show them you’ve thought it through.

Be Transparent About Your Relocation Timeline

When you’re applying from out of state, one of the biggest concerns employers have is whether you’ll actually follow through. That’s why being upfront about your move is essential, it builds trust and can help avoid misunderstandings later in the process.

Include your relocation timeline in your cover letter, and bring it up early in the interview process. You don’t have to have everything locked in, just show that you’re planning realistically. If you have a specific move date, even better.

You can also offer flexibility. Some companies may appreciate candidates who can start remotely for a few weeks before transitioning to in-person. That gives both sides time to adjust and makes you a more attractive hire.

Consider Temporary or Contract Positions First

One smart way to break into the Hawaii job market, especially before you move, is by applying for temporary, part-time, or contract roles. These positions often have quicker hiring processes and can lead to full-time opportunities once you’re on island.

Temporary work also gives you a chance to get familiar with local workplace culture and figure out if the job, and location, are a good fit long-term.

Some agencies that specialize in contract staffing in Hawaii include:

  • ALTRES Staffing (temporary & direct-hire roles)
  • HiEmployment (various short-term placements)
  • Robert Half (offers both remote and onsite contract jobs)

Even seasonal jobs in tourism or customer service can open doors, Hawaii is all about relationships and referrals. Once you’re working, even temporarily, it’s easier to transition into something permanent through local networks.

Tap into Hawaii’s “Who You Know” Culture

It’s no secret, Hawaii runs on connections. The job market here is heavily influenced by personal recommendations and referrals. That doesn’t mean you have to “know someone” to get hired, but building authentic relationships can go a long way.

If you’ve spent time on any of the islands before, reach out to old contacts or coworkers, even a friendly follow-up message on social media can spark something. Ask if they know of openings or if they’d be willing to keep an ear out for you.

You can also offer to chat over Zoom or phone to learn more about what it’s like working at a certain company. It’s not just about asking for favors, it’s about showing that you respect local perspectives and want to be part of the community, not just land a job.

Working remotely in Hawaii

Plan a Pre-Move Visit if Possible

If you’re able to make a trip to Hawaii before you move, it can really help your job search. Even a short visit shows employers that you’re serious, and it gives you a chance to meet people face-to-face, scout neighborhoods, and maybe even line up interviews. Before I moved to The Big Island, we spent 2 weeks living on the Kona side and driving the neighborhoods around the entire island to finally arrive at our Kealakekua home. You see the areas differently when you’re seriously planning to move there rather that thinking it would be fun some day.

Try to coordinate informational interviews or casual meetups during your visit. Many local businesses appreciate face time, and you’ll stand out more than someone applying cold from the mainland. If you’re staying for a week or two, you can even check out local job fairs or hiring events, some industries in Hawaii still do a lot of hiring in person.

That said, not everyone can afford a pre-move trip, and that’s okay. Plenty of people land jobs remotely. But if you do visit, treat it like a working trip and be intentional with your networking.

Watch Out for Job Scams Targeting Remote Applicants

Unfortunately, scammers do target job seekers looking to relocate, and Hawaii is no exception. The allure of moving to the islands makes some people let their guard down, but stay sharp.

Common red flags include:

  • Unsolicited job offers from companies you never applied to
  • Requests for personal financial information early in the process
  • Jobs that offer unusually high pay for minimal experience or vague responsibilities
  • “Employers” who won’t do a video interview or provide company contact info

Before accepting anything, research the employer. Look them up on the Better Business Bureau of Hawaii, check for a physical address, and trust your gut. Real employers won’t ask for money or sensitive info upfront.

Final Checklist Before the Move

Once you’ve landed the job, or even if you’re still in the interview process, it’s time to get your logistics in order. Here’s a quick relocation checklist to help keep things on track:

  1. Get a written job offer or employment agreement, ideally with a start date
  2. Secure housing or temporary accommodations on your arrival island
  3. Budget for moving costs, shipping, deposits, transportation, etc.
  4. Make sure your driver’s license, tax info, and health coverage are in order
  5. Schedule your travel and communicate updates to your new employer

The more organized you are before landing, the easier it’ll be to hit the ground running once you arrive.

Conclusion

Finding a job in Hawaii before you move isn’t just possible, it’s a smart way to start your island life off right. It takes a little extra planning and persistence, but by using local job boards, networking with the community, and being clear about your relocation plans, you’ll put yourself in a much stronger position.

Hawaii isn’t just a place to live, it’s a lifestyle. And showing that you understand that, even before you move, will go a long way with potential employers.

FAQs

Can I get a job in Hawaii before moving there?

Yes, many people secure jobs before relocating. It helps to be transparent about your move date and show employers that you’re serious and prepared.

Are Hawaii employers open to remote interviews?

Absolutely. Since the pandemic, remote interviews have become standard, and most companies will accommodate mainland candidates this way.

What are the best industries to work in Hawaii?

Tourism, healthcare, education, government, and construction are some of the strongest sectors. There’s also growing demand in tech and renewable energy.

How can I stand out as a mainland candidate?

Show that you’re committed, familiar with Hawaii’s lifestyle, and not just looking for a tropical escape. Tailor your resume and mention any previous time spent on the islands.

Is it necessary to have a local address to apply?

Not necessarily, but it helps. If you don’t have one yet, just be clear in your cover letter that you’re relocating and include your move date.

 

 

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