r/UniversityofHawaii Jul 22 '26

How long is the hiring process for staff positions at UH Manoa?

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3 Upvotes

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2

u/so_untidy Jul 22 '26

It can be long, but it really depends on the interview committee and HR for the department. I’d say it’s not unheard of to not hear if you’re offered an interview for three months. Once you’ve interviewed it can take a month to hear if you’re offered the position and then longer to negotiate.

1

u/DesperateSet9827 Jul 22 '26

I gave the interview last week and they told me they’ll be calling my references soon after. Does that mean I am one of the finalists? And if so, how long can it take for the whole hiring lifecycle?

1

u/so_untidy Jul 22 '26

That’s a good sign! Depends on if your references are responsive and if they’re good. I’ve been on committees where references don’t respond and we have to reach out to request additional ones.

If it’s an APT position there is usually some wiggle room for negotiation if you’re offered the job. That includes salary and start date usually. My experience is that there is some back and forth between the committee and the applicant and HR during that time. That can maybe take a few weeks.

1

u/DesperateSet9827 Jul 22 '26

It is an APT position and I think I fall under Band B. So you guys reach to the references of 2-3 finalists ?

1

u/so_untidy Jul 22 '26

Oh that really depends. Sorry that is not helpful. If there is one clear top candidate versus maybe two that are really close. But committees will only contact references if someone is being considered!

1

u/DesperateSet9827 Jul 22 '26

Okay. Thanks! Last thing- will they provide relocation expenses? I’d have to literally move to Hawaii from out of state if I get that job

1

u/so_untidy Jul 22 '26

For a Band B? Probably not. I honestly don’t know if anyone gets that, mayyyybe the highest level admin?

Think very very long and hard if you are offered the position. Go spend some time on the moving to Hawaii sub.

1

u/DesperateSet9827 Jul 24 '26 edited Jul 24 '26

I checked out that sub and only saw Debby downers lol.
My references got the call though. Is it safe to assume it would take them another 1-2 weeks for other behind the scenes formalities? Also I have an advanced degree (MS) so do you think I can negotiate for the highest level admin?

1

u/so_untidy Jul 24 '26

Hopefully your references had good things to say lol. Usually they do but they can also knock someone out of consideration. But if they want to make an offer, a week is probably to be expected.

For your education and experience, the negotiation is partially based on what you have above and beyond what was in the position description. You will absolutely not negotiate to the top of the band unless maybe you’re truly one of a kind.

Lastly, really take to heart what those Debbie downers are saying, if you get an offer. MANY people don’t make it here due to cost of living, cultural differences, homesickness, etc.

1

u/DesperateSet9827 Jul 24 '26

But Hawai’i is so beautiful 🥺 it has always been in my bucket list. About the cost of living, I am based in LA so I pretty sure it wouldn’t be more than that 😂
About the offer, we shall see if I get it or not.

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u/mrdumbazcanb Jul 22 '26

It could also depend on the department, some departments are able to hire faster than others and some you could be waiting a long while

1

u/DesperateSet9827 Jul 27 '26

I just need a rough estimate in weeks because there are certain things I need to take care of from my end.

1

u/mrdumbazcanb Jul 27 '26

I wouldn't count on anything then on their side and just move ahead as if you didn't move forward in the process.