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RESEARCHER — 2025-2026 CITY CHARTER COMMISSION

The Honolulu City Charter Commission is seeking a Researcher to support its once-a-decade review of the City Charter. This temporary position provides critical research, analysis, and administrative support to the Executive Director and Commissioners. The Researcher will help manage proposed amendments, analyze public and departmental input, assist with Commission meeting preparation, and support the Commission’s goal of finalizing proposed ballot amendments for the General Election in November 2026.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct legal and policy research, including statutory and constitutional analysis, and emerging trends

  • Draft memos, summaries, talking points, and other written materials for Commissioners and the public

  • Track and manage proposed Charter amendments submitted by City departments, Councilmembers, and community members

  • Organize, categorize, and maintain a log of all amendment proposals, including source, subject matter, legal review status, and Commission action

  • Analyze community input and identify how ideas may align with or impact the Charter

  • Summarize and thematically organize written and oral public testimony

  • Coordinate with Corporation Counsel and/or outside legal counsel to facilitate legal review of proposed amendment language

  • Assist in preparing final amendment language for ballot submission in compliance with legal deadlines

  • Support Sunshine Law and transparency requirements by helping maintain public records and archives

  • Create and manage spreadsheets, databases, and tracking tools to support workflow and reporting

  • Assist with Commission meeting setup and logistics, including preparation of agendas and meeting packets

  • Perform other duties as assigned to assist the Commission in fulfilling its mandate

Desired Qualifications

  • Experience with legal, statutory, or constitutional research

  • Knowledge of municipal governance, public agency processes, or policy analysis

  • Familiarity with Hawaii’s Sunshine Law and public meeting procedures (preferred)

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Excellent attention to detail, organization, and ability to manage multiple priorities

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with project management tools or data platforms is a plus

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced and evolving environment

  • Professionalism, tact, and discretion in working with Commissioners, stakeholders, and members of the public

  • A collaborative team mindset and strong sense of public service

Position Details

  • Term: Temporary appointment through December 2026

  • Salary Range: $75,000-$85,000

  • Work Schedule: Hybrid, but may require evening meetings and tight deadlines

    Application Deadline: August 1, 2025

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to cclcharter@honolulu.gov by August 1, 2025.