Workforce & Volunteers

Professional Development

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) Office of Public Health Preparedness (OPHP) is active in training, exercises, conferences, and community events to enhance community readiness and resilience. Efforts include:

  • Comprehensive training sessions where public health professionals and community members build skills in emergency response and preparedness.

The Hawaiʻi Training Finder Real‐time Affiliate Integrated Network (TRAIN) Learning Management System is a comprehensive learning management system designed to enhance public health preparedness and training across the state. It serves as a central platform for offering educational resources and training for healthcare professionals, public health workers, and emergency responders. 

During crises, Just-in-Time Training (JITT), a targeted training approach designed to provide essential knowledge and skills to individuals just before they are needed in emergency situations, may also be available on TRAIN. 

FEMA’s National Disaster & Emergency Management University offers educational coursework to prepare emergency preparedness professionals to meet the changing needs of the emergency management field and the security of our homeland.

  • All-hazards exercises where simulated emergency scenarios are run that test response capabilities, foster collaboration among agencies, and identify areas for improvement.
  • Community engagement through health fairs and public events help to raise awareness about emergency preparedness, provide resources, and promote health initiatives.
  • Collaborative partnerships with local organizations, agencies, and stakeholders working together to ensure a unified approach to public health challenges.

Through these initiatives, the OPHP strengthens the state’s ability to respond effectively to public health emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors.

Careers

The Office of Public Health Preparedness offers career opportunities for individuals interested in our mission to promote public health and prevent, mitigate, plan for, respond to, and recover from weather and human-caused health emergencies, disasters, and threats.

Volunteers

Interested in volunteering to help with public health preparedness in your community? The OPHP encourages your participation with the Hawaiʻi’s Medical Reserve Corps/Nā Lima Kākoʻo and other volunteer organizations that offer valuable assistance during public health crises and other emergencies. 

Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)/Nā Lima Kākoʻo

  • Volunteer in public health emergency preparedness. No medical experience required. To apply or learn more, visit the Nā Lima Kākoʻo website. 

Hawaiʻi State Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD) seeks volunteers to support increased needs around the state.

Student Internship and Practicum Opportunities

  • State internships and practicum experiences are available to students and early professionals. Learn more Link leads to current site.  

Other Internship and Fellowship Opportunities