Moving to Hawaii might be a dream, but finding a job here isn’t always as breezy as the trade winds. In this video, Misty Padilla, born and raised in Kona, sits down with Summer (Ocean View, Big Island) and Linda (Oahu) to have a real conversation about what it takes to land a job in Hawaii — from pre-internet job hunting stories to modern-day tips that work in 2025.

If you’re planning to move to the islands and are wondering how to secure employment, this video is a must-watch.

Video Highlights: How to Find Work in Hawaii Before and After You Move

Personal Relocation Journeys:
Linda shares her story of moving to Oahu nearly 30 years ago—back when job applications were faxed, and face-to-face visits made all the difference. Summer discusses her move in 2022 to the Big Island, how she navigated a six-month job search, and why she took a bridge job in hospitality to make connections.

Key Insight: Even today, word-of-mouth networking and relationships are still more powerful than online applications in Hawaii.

The Realities of Job Hunting in Hawaii

• Competition is tough. Even with years of experience, Summer explains how it took her half a year to secure a hospital job.

• Bridge jobs are essential. Hospitality roles, like selling helicopter tours and excursions, aren’t just filler—they help you learn the island quickly.

• Networking beats everything. Linda emphasizes the power of “Coconut Wireless”—Hawaii’s version of word-of-mouth that moves faster than any job board.

• Don’t burn bridges. With Hawaii’s tight-knit communities, your reputation will follow you from one job to the next.

Where to Search for Jobs in Hawaii (Locals’ Tips)

The video breaks down the best resources for job hunting in Hawaii in 2025:

• Hawaii DOE and Private School Job Boards (for educators)

• Facebook groups and local forums for job postings

• Employment agencies like Aloha International Employment and Employers Options

• Indeed, Monster, Craigslist (with caution)

• Libraries as information hubs for hyper-local job listings

• Short-term housing via Airbnb or Furnished Finder for those job-hunting on the ground

• Gig economy options: Uber, Lyft, Turo, Postmates

The Harsh Truth: Prepare Financially

Linda and Misty discuss Hawaii’s high cost of living and why it’s critical to have financial reserves before relocating. Rental prices for a studio start at around $1,500/month, while a 3-bedroom home can reach $4,500 or more. You’ll need to account for the time it might take to land a full-time position, which can range from three to six months depending on your field.

What Jobs Are In-Demand in Hawaii Right Now?

If you’re flexible, there are sectors actively hiring:

• Healthcare roles (hospitals, patient access)

• Education (teachers, support staff)

• Hospitality (hotel and restaurant staff)

• Elder care and child care providers

• Security services and law enforcement

• Gig-based services (rideshare, food delivery)

Work Culture in Hawaii: Adjust Your Expectations

Don’t expect mainland salaries and perks in Hawaii. The panel candidly discusses how salaries often lag behind mainland equivalents, even though living expenses are higher. However, what Hawaii offers in exchange is community, culture, and the Aloha spirit—an irreplaceable quality of life.

Creative Ways to Move to Hawaii with Employment

Summer shares how her son negotiated a remote work arrangement that allowed him to live in Hawaii while traveling back to the mainland once a month for meetings. The video encourages viewers to consider similar creative solutions with their current employers.

Final Thoughts: Come with Aloha and Be Resourceful

Whether you’re a teacher, healthcare worker, or just someone wanting to live in paradise, the biggest takeaway is this:
Be proactive, be patient, be humble, and lead with Aloha.
Job hunting in Hawaii is about relationships, persistence, and being open to opportunities you might not have considered.

Ready to Learn More? Watch the Full Video:
Truth About Job Hunting in Hawaii – Real Talk with Locals

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