Planner

Bowers Kubota is a full-service architectural, engineering, planning, construction management, and project/program management firm that has been servicing the island for more than forty years. Recognized as one the Best Places to Work both nationally and in Hawai'i, we are dedicated to delivering successful project of superior quality to our clients through teamwork and integrity. 

The Planner coordinates with the client, subconsultants, and project team. Works with both public and private sector clients in obtaining land use entitlements and permits required for development. Works with a team on planning projects and prepares related documents including applications, permit forms, physical plans, and environmental documents under the direction of a Planning Project Manager.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Planning or related field
• Knowledge of planning principles in airport-related projects is preferred
• Basic Microsoft Office experience (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• American Institute of Certified Planner (AICP) certification is preferred, although not required
• Principles, practices, purposes, scope, and techniques of various phases of land use planning, and the preparation, maintenance, and operation of a comprehensive plan for the improvement and development of a diversified urban and suburban jurisdiction
• Current trends in Federal, State, and local planning as they affect land use planning
• Familiarity with urban, regional, and rural planning principles
• Familiarity with GIS tools in support of technical analyses
• Environmental compliance and documentation experience
• Hawaii Land Use System, Zoning Code, and Entitlement experience
• Familiarity with real estate terminology, laws, practices, principles, and regulations
• Familiarity with economic and social aspects and implications of city planning
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local laws and ordinances relating to planning, zoning, land subdivision, and redevelopment
• Problem-solving, negotiation, and organizational skills
• Written and oral communication skills, including the editing, oversight, and preparation of technical reports, and the presentation of information to clients, government entities and various committees
• Interpersonal and public relations skills to collaborate effectively with clients, co-workers, government officials, other customers, and community organizations
• Experience implementing public involvement plans and/or managing public comments preferred
• Experience working in diverse settings
• Experience and understanding of laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to land use and planning within the local community
• Knowledge of local culture preferred
• Work with the graphics designer to prepare graphics for reports or presentation purposes
• Review and comment on special studies required for a project, such as biological reports, archaeological or cultural reports, traffic studies, infrastructure studies, and other studies as may be required for the project
• Valid driver’s license

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

• Ability to conduct research and document findings
• Provide logistical support at meetings and public outreach activities
• Provide logistical support, record keeping and participate in soliciting feedback and assist with drafting presentation materials and actively participates in discussions
• Prepare (research and write) and format technical and feasibility reports up to the final submittal stage and assist with compiling the draft and final reports; assist in directing and reviewing the preparation of reports and records by Planning Department staff
• Coordinate with local planning and regulatory agencies to understand requirements, procedures, and timelines
• Coordinate with subconsultant and other in-house disciplines
• Identify potential owner and community concerns related to master and development plans
• Prepare Declaration of Exemptions, Categorical Exclusions, Environmental Assessments and Environmental Impact Statements based on HRS Chapter 343 (as amended) and NEPA
• Assist in the preparation and coordination of plans
• Assist in preparation of proposal
• Manage project administrative tasks such as schedule and budget
• Apply professional competence with specialized knowledge of land use planning, community planning, and facility planning
• Prepare permit applications that may be required for the project such as:
  • Section 401 State Department of Health Water Quality Certification;
  • National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit;
  • Special Management Area (SMA) Permit;
  • Shoreline Setback Variance (SSV);
  • Conservation District Use Permit (CDUA);
  • Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Consistency Review; and, other permits
• Develop technical studies to address issues such as siting, space optimization, area development, alternative courses of action, and project requirements
• Participates in conferences and meetings involving departmental programs and functions
• Speak effectively to individuals and groups and conduct investigations and meetings with property owners and clients
• Maintain cooperative relationships with government agencies, civil organizations, and the public
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

LOCATION: Honolulu, HI

SALARY RANGE: $54,080 – $110,000 per year depending on experience

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vets/Disabled

100% Employee Owned