Help wanted: Governor signs order implementing Operation Hire Hawaiʻi

Gov. Josh Green put out the word Tuesday that Hawaiʻi is now hiring as upheaval and job cuts continue throughout the federal government.

Green signed an executive order implementing Operation Hire Hawaiʻi, a targeted outreach initiative with an expedited state hiring process, fast-tracking qualified candidates into job opportunities throughout the islands.

“As we witness the very quickly changing landscape of the federal government, federal workforce and federal policies, this order directs state agencies to review candidates and make a conditional job offer within 14 days of receiving an individual’s application,” said Green.

The state is recruiting for a wide range of positions including conservationists, engineers, information technology professionals, planners, accountants, human resource specialists, registered nurses, investigators and much more.

“If you’ve been impacted by federal workforce changes, we’re ready to welcome you into our state ‘ohana,” Green said. “Let’s put your expertise to work — apply today.”

The governor’s order says integrating people with federal government experience into Hawai’i’s public sector will accelerate the state’s efforts in advancing key initiatives such as climate resilience, economic diversification, digital modernization, social justice programs, housing and homelessness, as well as providing vital government services to Hawai’i residents.

Ensuring those displaced employees have access to employment opportunities in the islands also aligns with the state’s commitment to workforce equity, economic stability and fostering a government that reflects the values of transparency, efficiency, respect and public service.

Candidates who apply through the Operation Hire Hawaiʻi project will be referred immediately to hiring agencies for consideration.

“The Department of Human Resources Development is committed to working closely with our state agencies to ensure that those looking to join our ‘ohana can do so quickly,” said Hawai‘i Department of Human Resources Development Director Brenna Hashimoto. “We are eager to welcome those impacted by the changes at the federal level to our workforces, as we believe they will make an immediate, positive impact.”

For more information about Operation Hire Hawaiʻi, visit the state Human Resources Development Department website.

“We need great people now,” Green said. “With so many federal jobs being cut, I want to make sure those with the skills to protect and serve our islands have a place here.”

You can read the full text of Green’s executive order online.

News reporter Nathan Christophel contributed to this story.