Purser

Are you great with people, passionate about the environment and seeking a relaxed, fun workplace?  If so, we’d love to hear from you!

Position: Purser, Seasonal Full Time, Non-exempt

Location: On-site at Ma'alaea Harbor, Maui HI

Pay: Starting at $16.20/hour based on skills/experience + commission and tips

About Us:

Pacific Whale Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to our mission of protecting the ocean through science and advocacy. Since 1980, we have made a significant impact on marine environments and wildlife across the Pacific region, including Hawaii, Japan and Australia. Our mission is to inspire environmental stewardship and promote ocean conservation. 

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay with potential earnings through commission sales and tips
• Comprehensive benefits including PTO, health insurance and 401(k) for eligible employees
• Free ecotours
• A fun, relaxed workplace environment

Role Overview:

The Purser reports directly to the Vessel Staff Manager. Working at the direction of the Captain and the Vessel Staff Manager, the Purser is responsible for assisting in the safe navigation and proper operation of the vessel, ensuring a safe environment for all passengers. The Purser is also responsible for the preparation, display and serving of all food and beverage, supply inventory management and replenishment, saleable item bank and reconciliation.  The Purser delivers high quality service and other crew duties as needed to ensure an outstanding passenger experience.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Learn and maintain working knowledge of vessel systems, safety requirements and procedures; participate in vessel drills and comply with PWF's Substance Abuse Policy as required by the USCG.
• Ensure passenger safety through constant situational awareness, lifeguarding and administering appropriate first aid.
• Handle lines, assist with docking, mooring and other essential crew duties.
• Ensure each passenger receives outstanding service by providing a friendly environment, which includes greeting and acknowledging every person and exhibiting the utmost professionalism.
• Provide all food and beverage service in compliance with food handling safety standards.
• Maintain all food preparation and service areas through thorough cleaning, sanitation and ensuring readiness for daily operations. 
• Maintain vessel supplies through timely ordering.
• Perform daily maintenance and cleaning of vessel as assigned by Captain.
• Manage point-of-sale operations, including processing and reconciling sales, and ensure all sales equipment and technology are properly functioning, maintained, and ready for daily operations.
• Assist in a variety of duties including checking guests in for trips, wrist banding, signing waivers, supply management and collection, laundry, and assisting with reservations questions as needed.
• Stay current on all PWF marine research, conservation, outreach, and education programs and inspire passengers to take action.
• Attend dry dock
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Understand and demonstrate our core values in every interaction.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED; marine science degree preferred.
• Experience in hospitality, food service, retail sales or general customer service.
• Experience on the ocean and/or working on boats (preferred).
• First Aid/CPR, Lifeguard, Oxygen and AED certifications, and Maui Bar Card holder required within 3 months of hire.
• Lifeguarding experience (preferred).

Why Join Us?

The work you do with Pacific Whale Foundation directly supports our mission to protect the ocean and promote environmental stewardship. This is more than just a job—it's an opportunity to contribute to meaningful change while enjoying a rewarding and supportive work environment.

Pacific Whale Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.

Pacific Whale Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, marital status, arrest and court record, domestic or sexual violence victim status, reproductive health decision-making, credit history, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law.

We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace.

If you require reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact us at HRDepartment@pacificwhale.org.