Conservation Leadership Development Program (CLDP)

Five Kupu participants standing in a pasture, sharing smiles for a group photo.
Kupu participant in a native forest using a chainsaw to remove invasive species.
Two joyful Kupu participants taking a selfie on a beach with plant regrowth efforts in progress on Midway Atoll.
Kupu participant tending to an albatross bird in its nest.
Five Kupu participants in wetsuits on a small boat in Kaneohe Bay, displaying hand-painted signs that read 'One Million Urchins.'
Kupu participant carrying a bountiful bunch of freshly harvested bananas under a breadfruit tree.

“Kupu taught me how to become a leader, have compassion towards the environment, and respect the cultural heritage of the land. The skills I learned are directly applicable to my position today. It opened doors for me professionally and exposed me to opportunities for future employment.” —Nick, CLDP Participant with the UDSA

The Conservation Leadership Development Program (CLDP) is a paid program for early professionals (ages 17+) interested in pursuing a career in conservation. In CLDP, members are selected by a Host Site (partner organization) that aligns with their skills and conservation interests, serving in areas such as ornithology, botany, natural resource management, aquatic resource management, marine biology, Hawaiian cultural studies, agricultural science, and more.

CLDP terms typically last from 6 months to 1 year, offering hands-on experience, professional development, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact in communities across Hawai‘i and the Pacific.

Important Program Update:

The Conservation Leadership Development Program will not be accepting new applicants for the 2025-2026 term (Fall 2025 through Summer 2026). While current members will complete their existing terms, the program will pause new enrollment to prepare for future program improvements and new opportunities.

For those interested in conservation, we encourage you to explore the Kupu ʻĀina Corps.

Mahalo for your interest and understanding. Sign up for future updates here.

  • Applications are now closed.

    Program Information:

    • Based in the Hawaiian Islands and U.S. Pacific Islands (Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Maui, Molokaʻi, Oʻahu, American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands, Rota and Saipan)

    • Seasonal (6-Month) or Yearlong (11-month) program terms

    • Full-time (40 hours/week)

    • Host Sites: Past CLDP Partners

    2024-2025 CLDP Member Position Description

    Benefits:

    • Receive an in-depth, entry-level environmental experience from an agency of interest

    • Help protect the Pacific Islands and Hawaii’s natural resources and make a positive impact in the community

    • Earn a monthly living stipend (subject to taxes), stipend amount depends on which island you are based on

      • American Samoa, CNMI Saipan, Guam: Living stipend equivalent to $14.50 per hour

      • Hawai’i Island, Kaua’i, Moloka’i, and O’ahu: Living stipend equivalent to $17.00 per hour

      • Maui: Living stipend equicvalent to $18.00 per hour

    • Earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award upon program completion: Award of $3,697.50 for Half-time term members and $7,395.00 for Full-time term members

    • Access opportunity for interest earned on certain educational loans (during the service term) to be paid for by AmeriCorps

    Qualifications:

    • Be at least 17 years of age by program start date

    • Possess/be working towards high school diploma or equivalent

    • Have own housing and transportation

    • Pass a criminal history check

    • Comfortable serving in outdoor environments

    • Able to perform physically demanding duties

    Applications are now closed.

  • Applications are now closed.

    Benefits:

    • Receives a Full-Time Member at a subsidized cost

    • Kupu will assist your organization/agency with recruitment efforts and material

    • Kupu Staff Support

    • CLDP Program Staff support

    • Administrative Staff support

    • Human Resource Staff support

    • Recruiting Staff support

    • CLDP Member will assist in executing your organization/agency’s environmental stewardship tasks/projects

    • A potential hirable candidate

    Qualifications;

    • Sites must be either a non-profit organization or a State/Federal agency

    • Located in the U.S. Pacific Islands or Hawaii's environment.

    • Available and have the capacity to provide mentorship/supervision for members.

    • Provide 40 hours/week of meaningful direct service in conservation and verify hours served.

    • Direct service = activities that address local environmental needs that causes an impact to the people and community

    • Are not providing their services on private property.

    Applications are now closed.

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