Are you looking for a rewarding career that makes a difference in your community? Do you want to work in a dynamic and diverse environment that offers opportunities for growth and development? If so, you might be interested in joining our team at the Department of Planning and ermitting (DPP) at the City and County of Honolulu.

The DPP is responsible for planning and regulating the use of land in Honolulu, as well as issuing permits for various types of construction and development projects. The DPP also enforces the zoning, building, and environmental codes to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public. The DPP works closely with other city agencies and state partners, and community stakeholders to promote a livable, sustainable, and resilient city for all.

As a DPP employee, you will have the chance to apply your skills and knowledge to a variety of challenging and rewarding work, such as:

Planners

Developing and implementing long-range plans and policies for the city’s growth and development. Participating in public hearings, meetings, and outreach activities to solicit input and feedback from the public and stakeholders. More information can be found here or by emailing planningdivision@honolulu.gov.

Planners and Plans Examiners

Reviewing and processing applications for zoning changes, variances, conditional use permits, and other land use entitlements.

Engineers

Inspecting and approving building plans and specifications for compliance with codes and standards.

Inspectors

Conducting site inspections and investigations to enforce zoning, building, and environmental regulations.

Customer Service

Providing technical assistance and information to the public, applicants, contractors, and other agencies on planning and permitting matters.

To apply for DPP jobs, you will need to meet the minimum qualifications requirements for the position you are interested in, such as education, experience, license, and certification. You will also need to submit an online application through the City and County of Honolulu’s Job Opportunities website. You can browse the current DPP job openings and learn more about the application process on the DPP Careers page.

If you are ready to build your future here at DPP, apply today and make a positive impact on our island home!

OUR CULTURE

We are employee centric

We foster a sense of engagement in our workforce and encourage folks to contribute according to their strengths. Our modernization efforts take ingenuity.

We value inclusivity and belonging

We strive to create a culture that embraces and celebrates the diverse cultures in Hawaii, and we want our employees to feel respected, valued, and accepted for who they are and what they can contribute.

We put the public first

Our jobs as public servants are to serve with dedication and integrity. Everything we do is for the benefit of Hawaii’s residents, and we strive to earn their trust.

BENEFITS

Time off to rest and recharge

13-14 paid holidays, 21 days of sick leave, and 21 days of vacation per year.

Full list of benefits

Investments in your future

Tax-sheltered deferred compensation plans and employer sponsored retirement program.

Full list of benefits

Security you can count on

Plans for medical, prescription drug, vision, dental, and life insurance. Flexible health care spending accounts. Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Pre-tax benefits for transportation.

Full list of benefits

Permanent Civil Service Positions

Civil service positions put you on the career ladder for jobs at the City and County of Honolulu. Civil service positions are found in every City and County department, including DPP. When you apply to a civil service position, you may be applying for jobs in multiple departments.

Temporary Contract Positions

Temporary contract positions can be good opportunities for those people wishing to gain more experience and exposure to the department’s work, and can lead to future opportunities to qualify for permanent civil service positions.

Poʻokela Internship Program

The City’s Po’okela Fellows Internship Program allows college students to gain exposure to City functions/work and its leaders, while applying classroom knowledge to actual projects and making a difference in the community. Many Fellows have transitioned to civil service positions afterwards.

For other internship opportunities, you may inquire with DPP about your area of interest at dpp@honolulu.gov

Look for DPP job postings. Review the job postings carefully. Note the qualifications required for the job. If a position indicates “various departments”, note which vacancies are at the Department of Planning and Permitting. For positions in DPPʻs Planning Division, contact planningdivision@honolulu.gov to connect with a staff person to learn more about specific job functions and to answer any questions.

Apply. Make sure to include all necessary documents required in the job postings.

City and County screens your application. The City and County of Honolulu will screen all candidates and ensure that your application and resume indicates that you have the education and experience required in the job posting.

You are put on a qualified list and sent to departments. If you meet the education and experience requirements for the job, departments will be notified that they can contact you for an interview.

You are contacted for an interview or interviews. Depending on how many departments are recruiting for the position, you might be invited to interview with one or more departments.

Congratulations! Once selected for a position, Department of Human Resources will process your appointment, have you complete any necessary forms, and you’ll be contacted regarding your start date.

Last Updated: January 17, 2025