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Deaf Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

$50 - $125/hr

Deaf and/or Hard of Hearing * Native Sign Language fluency * Minimum four years of experience in teaching American Sign Language * Reliable internet, computer, mouse and keyboard and other equipment ...

Deaf information

See Hawaii salary details

$11.4K

$57.4K

$414K

How much do deaf jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for deaf in Hawaii is $57,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deaf?

A Deaf job typically refers to a position that is inclusive and accommodating for Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals. These jobs may be in Deaf-friendly workplaces, offer sign language communication, or involve working within the Deaf community, such as interpreting, advocacy, or education. Many industries support Deaf employees by providing accessibility services like captioning, interpreters, or assistive technologies.

What does it mean to be deaf?

Being Deaf typically refers to an individual who has little to no hearing and often communicates using sign language or other visual methods. Deaf people may identify as part of a distinct cultural and linguistic group, often referred to as Deaf culture, which has its own language (such as American Sign Language) and social norms. The experience and preferences of Deaf individuals can vary, with some preferring spoken language and others relying primarily on visual communication. Access to education, employment, and public life may require accommodations such as interpreters or assistive technology. Understanding Deafness involves both medical and cultural perspectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a deaf professional, and why are they important?

As 'Deaf' is not a job title but rather a descriptor of hearing status, there are no specific core skills or qualifications associated with it as a professional role. Instead, individuals who are Deaf can excel in a variety of job titles by leveraging relevant qualifications, technical proficiency, and communication skills suited to their chosen field. Success often depends on adaptability, effective communication (such as American Sign Language or written communication), and advocacy for accessibility in the workplace. These qualities enable Deaf professionals to contribute fully and thrive in diverse work environments.

What are some common challenges deaf professionals may encounter in the workplace, and how can these be addressed?

Deaf professionals may encounter challenges such as communication barriers during meetings, limited access to real-time information, or difficulty participating in impromptu discussions. These can be addressed by utilizing sign language interpreters, real-time captioning services, and accessible communication tools like email or messaging platforms. Many organizations also implement Deaf awareness training for teams, which helps foster an inclusive environment. Proactively discussing accessibility needs with employers can ensure proper accommodations are in place, enabling Deaf professionals to fully contribute and succeed.

What is the difference between Deaf vs Sign Language Interpreter?

AspectDeafSign Language Interpreter
CredentialsMay include audiology or counseling certifications; not always requiredRequired certifications such as NIC or RID certification
Work EnvironmentPersonal, educational, healthcare, or community settingsConsecutive or simultaneous interpretation in various settings like meetings, courts, or events
Industry UsageRefers to individuals with hearing loss or who identify as DeafProfessionals providing interpretation services between sign language and spoken language

Deaf individuals are those with hearing loss or who identify as Deaf, often engaging in various roles within their communities. Sign Language Interpreters are trained professionals who facilitate communication between Deaf and hearing individuals. While Deaf is a community identity, Sign Language Interpreters provide essential services across many industries to bridge communication gaps.

What are popular job titles related to Deaf jobs in Hawaii?

For Deaf jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Hawaii are hiring for Deaf jobs?

Cities in Hawaii with the most Deaf job openings:

Infographic showing various Deaf job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,438 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

OSSS Exceptional Support: (12-Month) Teacher of the Deaf (State Office Teacher), 606631 (2026-00874)

Hawaii State Department of Education

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$64K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Hawaii State Department Of Education rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

798th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: $64,226.00 - $90,376.00 Annually
Location : OSSS-ESB-Special Needs Section
Job Type: Full-time 12-month
Job Number: 2026-00874
District / Complex Area: Teacher / OSSS / Exceptional Support
School / Office: Teacher / Special Needs
Opening Date: 04/15/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Position %: 100%
Teacher Salary Differentials / Bonuses: $5,000 (National Board Certification, Pro-Rated)
Description
This Teacher of the Deaf (TOD) will be located on the Kona side of Hawaii Island supporting the HKKK Complex Area. This TOD will be assigned to a classroom for deaf learners within the complex area's new Regional Day School Program for the Deaf. As the population of students evolves the duties of this position may evolve into itinerant duties.
Preferred experience in Deaf/Hard of Hearing (which is a specific category of SpED)
Minimum Qualifications
The Hawaii State Department of Education is committed to hiring highly qualified teachers in every classroom. With the exception of designated Career and Technology Education (CTE) positions, the minimum qualification to apply for a teacher, librarian or counselor position is a Bachelor's Degree.
If you are hired without completing a Teacher's Education Program, you have a maximum of 3 years to obtain a valid Hawaii teaching license. You must enroll in a Program to continue employment with the Department. Within each year of employment, you must satisfactorily demonstrate active pursuit towards meeting Hawaii licensing requirements, as set forth by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board (HTSB). It is your responsibility to ensure the program you have enrolled is aligned with the teaching line you are hired in.
Upon hire you will need to have a valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit. You may apply for your Hawaii teaching license on the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board Website ().
Supplemental Information
Please visit to review the eligibility requirements for all bonuses, differentials, and initial salary placement. To obtain a Hawaii Teaching License, which is required to receive any salary differentials, please apply with the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board at
Equal Opportunity
The Hawaii State Department of Education does not discriminate in its educational policies, programs, and activities on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, and disability in accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991. The Department does not discriminate in its employment policies, programs, and activities on the basis of sexual orientation, arrest and court record, and National Guard participation, as well as on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, and disability, in accordance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991, Equal Pay Act of 1963, and Chapter 378, Part I, Hawaii Revised Statutes.
Payday
New employees can expect their first paycheck within the first 3 pay periods of their start date. Payday is on the 5th and 20th (or previous business day) of every month.
Certificated 12-Month Teachers enjoy a range of competitive benefits:
  • Compensation: 12-month teachers shall be compensated for the applicable Bargaining Unit 05 12-month salary schedule for working a 12-month work year.
  • 21 Days of Paid Sick Leave, 14 Days Paid-Vacation and State/Federal Holidays: 12-month teachers receive 21 days of paid sick leave, 14 Days Paid Vacation and State/Federal Holidays during the school year provided that all conditions under the respective collective bargaining agreement are met.
  • Health Insurance: If eligible, the State pays a part of the premiums for each employee's enrollment in a State sponsored Medical, Drug, Vision, and Adult Dental Plan. For more information, please visit the to see premiums and contributions for Bargaining Unit 05 members.
  • Group Life Insurance: The State provides a free life insurance policy for employees and retirees.
  • Premium Conversion Plan: Participating employees may increase their take-home pay by having the State deduct the cost of health care premiums before payroll taxes are withheld.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: Eligible employees can reduce their federal and state income taxes and social security taxes through a tax-savings benefit program called This program allows employees to set aside money from their paychecks to pay for out-of-pocket health care expenses and eligible dependent care expenses on a BEFORE-TAX basis.
  • Retirement Plan: The State contributes to a retirement plan for eligible employees. Generally, employees with at least 10 years of credited service and who have reached 62 years of age or have 30 years of credited service and are 55 years old may retire and receive benefits. For more information, please visit
  • Tax Shelter Annuity (TSA): If eligible, Department employees are able to participate in a tax shelter annuity program. The TSA plan allows eligible employees to contribute pre-tax dollars to an employee-selected investment service provider authorized to provide TSA products.
  • Deferred Compensation: The State offers employees a tax deferred (sheltered) retirement investment program. This program is an opportunity to build a retirement nest egg through voluntary payroll deductions. Several investment options are available.
  • Temporary Disability Insurance: Qualified employees may be eligible to receive benefits for a disability caused by a non-work related injury or illness under this program.
  • Social Security: As an employer, the State also contributes to an employee's social security account.
  • Workers' Compensation: If an employee is injured while on the job, benefits covering medical expenses and partial wage support may be available through workers' compensation.
  • Union & Collective Bargaining: Employees have the right to join the union for collective bargaining with the State and employee representation. Some employee unions provide discounts, insurance and other opportunities. 12-Month Teachers are represented by the Hawaii State Teachers Association. More information can be found at by visiting the
The above is intended as a general summary of the benefits offered and is subject to change. This does not constitute a contract or binding agreement. Benefits vary by type of employment appointment and collective bargaining agreements.
01
EXTERNAL TEACHER APPLICATION:
Will you have completed a bachelor's degree or higher by the effective start date of the teaching position?
  • Yes
  • No

02
EXTERNAL TEACHER APPLICATION:
Are you currently employed as a Teacher, Librarian, or Counselor (BU05) in the Hawaii State Department of Education?
  • Yes
  • No

03
EXTERNAL TEACHER APPLICANTS FINISHING A HAWAII BASED TEACHER'S EDUCATION PROGRAM:
I will be completing my State Approved Teacher's Education Program (SATEP) by the end of this semester?
  • Not applicable. I have not enrolled in a SATEP, yet. If hired, I know I must submit documents to prove I am enrolled in a SATEP and I must complete it within 3 years of employment.
  • Not applicable. I am currently enrolled in a SATEP and will not graduate by the end of this semester.
  • Not applicable. I completed an out-of-state SATEP.
  • Not applicable. I already completed a SATEP in Hawaii.
  • Yes. I will complete a Hawaii based SATEP by the end of this semester.

04
Hawaii Teaching License:
Do you possess a valid Hawaii Teaching License from the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board (HTSB)?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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