Planner/Zoning Specialist

HWC is seeking a Planner/Zoning Specialist to assist Indiana communities in preparing and administering zoning regulations that promote the community’s vision for future development. As a key member of our Indianapolis planning studio, we are looking for an individual who will be responsible for:

• Preparing and updating zoning ordinances, unified development ordinances, and related regulatory documents.
• Collaborating with community leaders in the preparation and drafting of development regulations.
• Facilitating public participation throughout the drafting process from initial outreach through final adoption hearings.
• For highly qualified candidates, this position could include project management.

HWC delivers development regulations through a multi-disciplinary team of professionals so that our codes are clear, fair, technically sound, and easy to administer. Our studio consists of professionals with experience in planning, landscape architecture, engineering, real estate, and development. Each brings unique perspectives and skills and has led to HWC’s reputation for preparing codes that support development on the community’s own terms. Services provided include the preparation of zoning ordinances, subdivision control ordinances, unified development ordinances, design-based ordinances, and overlay district regulations.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Complete background research and analysis to support code creation.
• Facilitate public participation and stakeholder activities to identify issues, opportunities, and priorities.
• Collaborate to recommend regulatory strategies to address community needs, to support desired development, and to discourage inappropriate development.
• Travel to and participate in public workshops, steering committee meetings, and adoption hearings across the state of Indiana, including evening meetings.
• Prepare interim and final code documents including writing, mapping, and graphic design.
• Interact effectively with others including community leaders, residents, stakeholders, elected officials, consulting firms partnering with HWC, state agencies, and HWC staff.
• Collaborate with communities in administering zoning regulations.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, urban design, public policy, landscape architecture, law, or a related field.
• 4+ years of professional experience in preparing development regulations.
• AICP certification is strongly preferred.
• Experience administering zoning regulations is beneficial.
• Excellent ability to communicate complex issues and advanced writing skills.
• Ability to think critically, manage time and solve problems.
• Strong analysis and organizational skills.
• Reliable transportation.
• Complete competence working well independently and on a team.
• Applicant must possess high ethical standards, have a strong sense of commitment to self-development, teamwork, and a desire to work in a deadline-driven team environment.

Why Work with Us

At HWC Engineering, our foundation is built upon a vibrant culture that celebrates diversity, collaboration, and innovation. We believe in creating an environment where every individual feels valued, supported, and inspired to thrive.

• The strength of our company lies in the well-being & growth of our employees. That's why we prioritize professional development, providing avenues for continuous learning & career advancement.
• Our culture isn't just a statement; it's the fabric that binds us together, guiding us as we navigate challenges, celebrate successes, & create a workplace where everyone feels empowered to excel. We are humbled to have been named a Best Place to Work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce from 2016 – 2026; 11 years in a row!
• Collaboration is more than a buzzword for us; it's ingrained in our DNA. Teamwork is at the core of our success, and we celebrate the achievements of each member, knowing that our collective efforts lead to exceptional outcomes.
• Embrace freedom! We promote work life balance with tailored schedules & flexible work environment with remote, hybrid in-office, and/or full-time in office workspaces offered dependent upon position / situation (and ability to work from home).
• Experience an exceptional salary package with performance-driven bonuses and recognition that outshines the rest!

ABOUT HWC

HWC Engineering is a full-service consulting engineering firm that provides water, wastewater, stormwater, transportation, inspection, site engineering, survey, landscape architecture, and planning services to both public and private sectors.

Founded in 1989 in Terre Haute, Indiana, HWC has additional offices in Indianapolis, Lafayette, Muncie, Hammond, North Vernon, and New Albany, allowing us to provide professional engineering services to clients throughout Indiana and the Midwest.

HWC is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer (EEO) that does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, age, gender, or any status protected by federal, state, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, competence, and performance.