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The City of Ritzville is currently accepting a cover letter and resume for a new position for a Community Development Director. 

JOB SUMMARY
The Community Development Director will serve as the key leader of the city’s planning and development efforts as a department head, overseeing all aspects of urban planning, permitting, and infrastructure development including but not limited to project management. This individual will manage the city’s entire planning department and will be responsible for developing strategies that promote sustainable growth, manage easement and right-of-way issues, and streamline permitting processes. Additionally, the Director will lead grant writing and management efforts to secure funding for various city projects.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
•    Proficient and comfortable using a wide range of computer applications.
•    Experience with GIS, permitting software, and project management tools.
•    Strong project management and analytical skills.
•    Ability to balance competing priorities and manage complex projects and meet strict deadlines.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Telework/ Hybrid Options Considered with in-person as duties require. Work includes attendance at evening City Council, Commission and Committee meetings.

COMPENSATION
The City of Ritzville has established an annual salary range of $59,880 to $81,876 for this position. Employees receive a health insurance package that includes medical, dental, vision coverage and PERS retirement system. The compensation package includes sick leave, annual leave, and holiday leave with pay. 

The full job description is available online at www.cityofritzville.com or in person at City Hall, 216 E Main Avenue, Ritzville, Washington. Questions may be directed to the Mayor Scott Yaeger email scott.yaeger@ritzville-wa.us.  Cover letter and Resume emailed to Mayor Scott Yaeger email scott.yaeger@ritzville-wa.us. Cover letter and resume will be initially reviewed on February 12, 2025 with the position open until filled.

The City of Ritzville is an equal opportunity employer.

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Whatcom County Planning and Development Services (PDS) is seeking a forward-thinking, dynamic leader for the position of Current Planning and Code Enforcement Division Manager. This individual will address complex development and natural resource management challenges, identifying innovative solutions. The manager will oversee the current planning and land use application review process while ensuring compliance with local, state and federal regulations, including the Growth Management Act (GMA), Shoreline Management Act (SMA), and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).

The successful candidate must demonstrate exceptional project management and communication skills, with advanced knowledge of land use development planning and regulatory compliance. In addition, they must be adept at interacting with diverse groups of residents, customers, and stakeholders in a transparent, diplomatic, and consistent manner. Comfort with engaging and communicating with key stakeholders, being accessible and approachable, is essential, especially in an environment that often involves competing interests. The ideal candidate will be solution-driven, possess emotional intelligence, and have proven conflict resolution skills.

** This position will remain open until filled.  Apply early for first consideration!  First application review date scheduled for February 5, 2025.  Recruitment will be suspended once the position has been filled. **

Examples of Duties

Management of the Current Planning and Code Enforcement Division to include:

• Ensuring the timely, accurate, and complete dissemination of information related to current planning land use permit application reviews, work products, and programs.
• Oversight of the Code Enforcement staff providing guidance and direction for the public as they seek compliance with development, natural resource and building regulations.
• Implementing decisions resulting from hearings, appeals, and actions taken by the County Council.
• Providing policy and technical guidance to staff, departments, commissions, elected officials, and the public to ensure adherence to statutory requirements and development regulations.
• Supervising, training, and mentoring staff in the implementation of policies, procedures, and new or updated regulations.
• Addressing concerns and issues, determining appropriate resolutions, and fostering positive internal and external customer relations.
• Establishing procedures and recommending administrative policies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the land use review process, ensuring productive communication regarding approvals and reports, and providing accurate information to customers and the public.

For more information please review the following:

• Division Manager Job Description
• Division Manager Current Planning Supplemental Job Description

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Planning or field related to Natural Resources. Master’s degree is preferred. 
• Five years of progressively responsible related experience including two years of supervisory or lead experience.
• Requires educational specialization in the area of urban planning; land use; public administration or a closely related field.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred. 

Requires knowledge of:

• Land use planning and natural resource statutes in the Washington Administrative Code and Revised Code of Washington, including the Growth Management Act, Shoreline Management Act, State Environmental Policy Act, and forest practices.
• County land use and natural resource regulations.
• The impact of current state legislation on local planning and permitting  issues and a thorough, detailed knowledge of Washington’s growth management laws and/or similar environmental or planning management laws and legislative impacts in other states.

The ideal candidate:

The ideal candidate is a collaborative, creative problem solver with strong technical expertise and excellent interpersonal skills. This key position provides strategic oversight and leadership for both the Current Planning and Code Enforcement Divisions. The successful candidate will report to the Director and work closely with the leadership team to ensure the highest level of customer service for the public and other agencies.

At its sole discretion Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.

Supplemental Information

SALARY:

Unrepresented Range 11:  $7,876 – $11,437 per month. Hiring rate depends on qualifications.  

This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any approved Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). 

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW:
The mission of the Planning and Development Services Department (PDS) is to ensure growth and development occurs in a manner that protects public health and safety, preserves the natural environment and ensures a high quality of life. Whatcom County PDS currently has 51 FTE’s and is divided into four major divisions including Current Planning/Code Enforcement, Natural Resources, Building Services and Long-Range Planning.  Our goal is to provide excellent customer service and planning solutions that work for our community. The Current Planning Division Manager will be part of a dedicated management team providing leadership and guidance on a wide variety of land use and natural resource management issues.  For more information about he Planning and Development Services Department, please see their website.

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GENERAL SUMMARY
 
Performs intermediate skilled technical work interpreting, monitoring, and administering local, State, and Federal regulations pertaining to planning, environmental and land-use related issues, and related work as apparent or assigned.  Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Planning Manager (supervisor).

Click here to view the complete job description to include essential functions and working conditions.
 
CORE VALUES

All employees are expected to model and foster the City of Richland’s core values in the performance of their duties and their interactions while representing the City. The values of Teamwork, Integrity, and Excellence promote and maintain a high level of morale and productivity, and are the tie that binds all City employees together, across all functions.

Applications will be reviewed weekly beginning January 27, 2025.

Minimum Qualifications

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Valid driver’s license.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s degree with coursework in urban or regional planning, public administration, or related field and three (3) years of experience in current or long-range planning, design work, project management, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Supplemental Information

Selection will be based on overall qualifications, skills testing (if applicable) and an interview process. Final candidate selected will be subject to a comprehensive background/reference check commensurate to the position.

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The mission of Yakima County Government is to provide accessible, responsive and responsible public service through leadership and teamwork committed to understanding and meeting public needs.

Our Values:

• Integrity
• Common Sense
• Innovation
• Accountability

Position Data:

Planner III-J23-U30-H | Regular | Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime)

Overview:Pay Range: $34.10 – $43.25 per hour (CTP Pay Plan, C43 Step 1-13)
Hiring Range: $34.10 – $36.19 per hour (CTP Pay Plan, C43 Step 1-4 DOQ)

Job Closing Date: February 4, 2025

There is one Planner III opening with the Yakima County Public Services, Planning Division. This position provides experienced professional planning expertise and recommendations on routine to complex projects and other assignments; performs a broader range of skilled and professional duties under supervision of a Section Manager; acts as a resource for Section or Division within area(s) of expertise; participates in plan and regulatory updates; special studies, public outreach and education efforts related to land development and long range growth management planning; instructs others in methods or procedures needed to carry out their work on assigned projects or area of specialization. The Planner III is capable of working independently with minimal supervision or direction.

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We are seeking an energetic planning professional or planning project manager to provide advanced-level private and municipal planning and permitting expertise as we develop and execute a wide variety of projects out of our Spokane office. The ideal candidate will demonstrate initiative and be able to work with our diverse clientele as a quick learner, working on various planning-related tasks and responsibilities, and integrating with our company-wide planning team on projects across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. They will partner with other SCJ professionals to strengthen relationships with clients.

Who we are

Our mission is to serve our clients, communities, and each other with creativity, knowledge, insight, and perspective. As a 100% employee-owned company, at SCJ we value trust, compassion, freedom, stewardship, and integrity. We routinely and easily cross job description lines in order to be part of getting something done. Our fast-paced, fun, and flexible atmosphere offers the opportunity for meaningful work that challenges you, makes a difference, and improves communities. We specialize in civil engineering, transportation planning & design, environmental & urban planning, landscape architecture & design, and public outreach. With great projects and a fun-loving team, our firm has been named as both one of the nation’s fastest-growing and best places to work multiple times.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate independence and initiative and be able to work with our diverse clientele. They will be able to cultivate new relationships while sustaining and strengthening existing relationships.  Problem solving and consensus-building come naturally to them, along with an appreciation for pragmatic solutions even while stretching to reach aspirational goals. 

What our planning projects may include

• Comprehensive plan updates
• Zoning and development code updates
• Housing action plans
• Land use planning and permitting
• Town center planning and redevelopment

What you’ll be doing

• Leading interesting and challenging planning-related projects and/or tasks that help build communities.
• Communicating and building professional relationships with clients, agencies, colleagues, and the public. 
• Prioritizing multiple projects and deadlines.
• Coordinating projects and working with other staff to ensure tasks are organized and progressing. 
• Performing an assortment of land use, permitting, environmental, and transportation planning projects and tasks.
• Getting out of the office on occasion to visit the communities and clients you’re working for.
• Leading public engagement efforts and thinking creatively on how to successfully engage a wide range of communities.
• Assisting with presentations to elected officials, hearings examiners, and various other public forums.

What you bring

• A passion for serving others, communication, creativity, and a commitment to high-quality work.
• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in planning or related field or equivalent.
• Experience and knowledge of managing parts or all of planning projects.
• A flexible perspective for working with a variety of clients and co-workers, often virtually.
• Experience with public speaking and presenting to planning commissions and city councils.
• Proficient in technical writing of plans and reports. 
• Knowledge of expectations and requirements in planning and permitting work for private &/or public clients.
• Knowledge of the Growth Management Act (GMA) in Washington State.
• 5-10 years of relevant planning experience. 

What we bring 

• An unbeatable culture: An autonomous and collaborative work environment, exceptional operational support, creative and supportive co-workers, and a compassionate leadership team. Plus other fun stuff including firmwide parties, mugshots, fitness challenges, fantasy football league, trivia nights, peer recognition program…and a variety of other creative ways we have found to come together and hang out. 
• Quality projects: We pursue work that improves communities, challenges us, and makes a difference.
• Community involvement opportunities and a charitable matching program. 
• Paid time off: vacation/sick time, holidays, personal floating holiday. 
• Retirement benefits: 401(k) plan & employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).
• Health, disability, and other insurance plan options to fit your needs. Including HSA & FSA.

This is not a remote position. Though there is some flexibility, in-person office time will be necessary.

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Initial candidate eligibility is based on the job application and any accompanying documentation.  It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide sufficient information and details within the body of the  application (education and work experience sections) to permit the City of Yakima to properly evaluate the candidate’s qualification, abilities and experience as it relates to the requirements of the position.  For calculation of experience, one year of experience equals 12 months with a minimum of 173.33 hours per month.  Additional required documents must be attached. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of application fields.  

Job Summary

This position performs with considerable independence under limited direction and requires frequent contact with the City Council, boards and commissions, other City departments and divisions, and the general public.  This position performs professional Urban/Land Use Planning work focusing on both current and long-range planning. In addition, the Senior Planner may be responsible for coordinating activities of the planning staff.  The position performs other complex planning work to support the Supervising Planner and Division Manager as required.  

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

A Bachelor Degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Geography, Architecture or a closely related field and three (3) years of progressively responsible and directly relevant planning experience is required.  Experience must include work as a project manager or lead in a planning project or program. A Master’s Degree in a related field may substitute for one (1) year of professional Planning experience. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred.

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND/OR CERTIFICATES:  

Must possess and maintain a valid Washington State Driver’s License.

Essential Functions

Performs lead role (Project Management) for the preparation, review, and adoption of:

            A.        Zoning Ordinance Amendments

            B.        Subdivision Ordinance Amendments

            C.        Development  Standards and Regulations

            D.        Neighborhood and Sub-area Plans

            E.        Special Studies and Reports

Responsible for the preparation of special studies and detailed reports to the management staff, boards and commissions, and the City Council on planning policy issues and related matters. Attends public hearings, community meetings, City Council meetings, and committee meetings and presents information during regular working hours or during evenings/weekends. Makes formal presentations orally and in writing.  Presents information to other professionals, government officials, businesses, community groups, residents, and others.

Provides planning staff support and direction to the Yakima Planning Commission. Provides assistance, guidance, direction, training and constructive feedback to subordinate planning staff on other issues and topics as assigned and/or appropriate. 

Short-Range:  

May assign files to planners and assists in processing permit applications; reviews and investigates applications for annexation, subdivision, right-of-way vacation, zoning and city utility extensions; provides policy guidance on staff recommendations. Conducts thorough research, prepares graphics, maps, reports and recommendations for presentation to various government officials.  Works with other governmental agencies and city departments in a support role.  Provides advanced technical planning assistance to the public on request and assists subordinate planning staff respond to difficult questions, issues or situations.  Answers planning questions posed by the general public efficiently and effectively with courtesy and respect.

Long-Range:  

Assists in problem identification and development of Comprehensive Plan goals and objectives.   Designs programs necessary to meet assigned planning objectives.  Develops methodology; performs in-depth research, data gathering and applies complex statistical techniques.  Performs lead role in zoning and subdivision amendments and other regulatory programs. May coordinate land use programs. Researches grant opportunities. Writes planning-related grant applications; develops RFP/RFQ, and contract documents for consultants when appropriate. Manages grant programs/projects through to completion.

Contributes to the effective administration of City government by fostering an attitude among staff that encourages cooperation and coordination of efforts, productive time management, and efficient use of resources. Provides continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers.

Requires regular and reliable attendance.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

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The City of Kent is seeking an experienced and dynamic long-range planner to help build Kent’s future. In this role, the Principal or Senior Long-Range Planner will perform professional duties related to all aspects of City planning with a high degree of independence.You will lead complex planning projects, engage with diverse stakeholders, and leverage your knowledge of Growth Management Act, zoning, and urban design to create plans, policies, and regulations that reflect the needs and aspirations of our community. This is an exciting opportunity to not just develop plans, but to also implement them!The successful candidate will have excellent communication skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively as a team member.   Five (5) years of professional level experience in municipal planning and a bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public administration or a related field are required for a candidate to be qualified as a Senior Planner, while seven (7) years of professional level experience in municipal long-range planning and either a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in the fields listed above are required in order for a candidate to be placed at the Principal Planner level. If you have the requisite education and experience, thrive in fast-paced environments, and have a proven track record in equitable community planning, we invite you to apply. Consider advancing your career and fostering the growth of a vibrant community through employment with the City of Kent.

There is ONE full-time position that will be filled by this recruitment process, depending on qualifications and experience.  This is a benefited, non-represented position that is exempt from overtime.

**Please note that you must attach your cover letter and resume to your application in order for your application to be considered complete. Incomplete applications will not be considered for this position.  If you experience technical difficulties, please contact our office Monday-Friday, between 8:00 AM- 5:00 PM at (253) 856-5270 and we will do our best to assist you.**

This position is open until filled. The hiring process for this recruitment will consist of at least one interview. Qualified candidates will be notified once an interview schedule has been established.

SALARY:

If placed in the Principal Planner position: $9,506.00- 11,579.00 per month, depending on experience

If placed in the Senior Planner position: $8,604.00-10,483 per month, depending on experience

For a listing of benefits, please use the following link: Employee Benefits | City of Kent (kentwa.gov)

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This position oversees the Planning and Community Development functions of the City. .. The Director
will manage contracts and consultants for planning services. The Planning & Community Development
Director will ensure that the City of Prosser is compliant with all short term and long term planning
projects and will maintain compliance with the Growth Management Act. Employees in this class may work a variety of hours, be flexible, and have nontraditional work weeks and
hours.

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Masters Degree in urban, regional, or city planning.
• Knowledge of municipal planning and development permitting desired
• Desired skills include writing, customer service, interpersonal, presentation, process management,
• computer software (mapping software particularly desired), analytical, budgeting, contract management,
• and leadership.
• Ability to apply complex state and local planning laws is required
• Ability to read, write, and/or speak Spanish.

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Now hiring, Assistant Planner!  

This classification is the entry-level in the professional planner series. 

Next review of applicants will be January 6, 2024

Salary range as of January 1, 2025: $6,698.27 – $8,475.45 per month
The incumbent is part of a collaborative work team that performs a broad range of professional planning support functions and assists with special projects under the direction of the Planning Manager or designee.  

Work is characterized by exceptional customer service, timely and efficient processing of development applications, research and analysis projects of routine to moderate difficulty, preparation of reports, preparation of maps and support on special/long-range projects. Assistant Planner is distinguished from Associate Planner in that incumbents in the latter class exercise a higher degree of independent judgement on assignments, project management, and a greater degree of accountability and decision-making authority.

Work is performed with general supervision. The Principal Planner and Planning Manager in coordination with the Director, defines objectives, priorities, and deadlines; and assists incumbent with unusual situations which do not have clear objectives or precedents. Incumbent plans and carries out routine assignments and resolve problems and deviations in accordance with instructions, policies, procedures and/or accepted practices. Work is evaluated carefully for technical soundness, conformity to practice and policy, as well as thoroughness of research, analysis and recommendations.

This position will play a crucial part in supporting the Department’s goal of:

Maintain a unique and vibrant community that promotes economic growth and healthy neighborhoods with sustainable development and environmental protection.

About City of Lake StevensLake Stevens is a vibrant and growing community – the second fastest-growing city in Snohomish County – with a population of over 40,000 makes us the 4th largest city in the county.

Lake Stevens is generally a residential community with access to numerous commercial, retail and recreational opportunities. Of course, the crown jewel of the community is the lake itself, which boasts some of the greatest water recreational opportunities in the county. Lake Stevens is also uniquely situated, being close to the lake, ocean, and Cascade mountains, to take advantage of many outdoor activities. The Lake Stevens Schools are excellent and coupled with a city priority of parks and increased walkability, makes Lake Stevens an ideal place to raise a family.The City of Lake Stevens operates under the mayor-council system. The city’s motto, “One Community Around the Lake”, embodies our quality of life, top-ranked school district, and the City Council’s commitment to providing excellent services and amenities for its residents.

Why City of Lake Stevens?

• Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individual’s lifestyle. 
• Flexible Work Schedules– The city offers a variety of work schedules to include potential hybrid/remote work dependent on meeting business necessities and supervisor approval.
• Work Where you Live!  

The City of Lake Stevens offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Retirement- through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems.
• Deferred Compensation- with city match.
• Excellent healthcare options- including medical, dental, vision insurance, city-paid life insurance and long-term disability, health savings accounts (HSA), and Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA/VEBA).
• Paid leave- including paid sick leave, paid vacation, flexible holidays, paid holidays, and bereavement leave.
• Tuition reimbursement!
• See our benefits page for a complete list of all the benefits available to the City of Lake Stevens employees.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Essential duties and responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:

• Responds to citizen inquiries regarding the Comprehensive Plan, Zoning, Subdivision and Land Use Codes at the counter, over the phone, in writing, and at informal meetings. Researches and drafts revisions and amendments to City’s development codes and regulations. 
• Reviews development applications for compliance with applicable development, zoning, subdivision, land use, and environmental policies and regulations
• Reviews and processes business licenses and home occupation applications
• Conducts field evaluations and assessments
• Coordinates project proposal reviews with other agencies, city departments, and city boards and commissions
• Prepares, files and maintains records throughout the life of a project in compliance with a variety of federal, state and local codes
• Assists with the preparation and presentation of graphics and maps, noticing, staff reports, and recommendations to the Director of Planning and Community Development, Hearing Examiner, City Council and other boards and commissions
• Researches and collects statistical/background data for senior staff as requested for current, long-range and special planning projects
• Utilizes social media, city website, and/or other programs and media to communicate project and departmental information to ensure consistent and timely communication
• Assists with addressing citizen complaints related to zoning and land use issues as needed
• Works with the City Clerk’s Office in the maintenance of department records and preparing documentation in response to requests for public record
• Maintains regular, predictable, and reliable attendance during scheduled hours

PERIPHERAL DUTIES

• Perform other duties as assigned

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; talk; and hear. The incumbent frequently is required to sit for extended periods of time and type on a keyboard and use a mouse for extended periods of time. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance, color, and peripheral vision; depth perception; and the ability to adjust focus.

Work is mostly performed in an office environment but is subject to working outside occasionally in all types of weather. Will occasionally work evening or weekend hours to meet critical timelines, provide support in department emergency response events, or attend meetings.

While performing the duties of this position, the incumbent is subject to multiple interruptions by telephone calls and customers; may be exposed to individuals who are irate or hostile. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Occasionally requires driving to offsite locations and performing work in the field in various weather conditions. While in the field, the employee must stand or walk onvariable surfaces, including hard, even surfaces and uneven ground.

Typical business office machinery and equipment includes, but is not limited to, personal computer and software/applications, spreadsheet and word processing software, printers, telephones, scanning equipment, fax machine, copy machine, calculator, and projector. 

Evening or variable hours to attend meetings is required.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning or a related field
Experience: One (1) year of experience in a related field including experience preparing maps and other presentation materials using GIS software
Or: Any combination of education and experience, which provides the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge and ability required to perform the job, may be substituted for these qualifications 
Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of planning
• State and federal statutes relating to current planning, zoning, land division, Shoreline Management Act, State Environmental Policy Act and the Growth Management Act
• Municipal government policies, procedures, and structure; applicable local, state and federal laws, codes, regulations and ordinances
• Land use and environmental review requirements and their application in the overall permit process
• Principles and practices of research, analysis and data collection and interpretation
• Effective oral and written communication principles and practices
• Project management techniques and principles
• Detailed record-keeping techniques
• Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and computer applications such as: word processing, spreadsheets, statistical databases, Adobe, ArcGIS, etc.

Skilled in:

• Modern office practices, procedures and equipment including personal computers and related software such as word processing, spreadsheet programs and web-based management systems
• Proper use of telephone etiquette and techniques and ability to assist in answering diverse inquiries
• Demonstrating effective interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
• Understanding and following oral and written directions
• Compiling, organizing, and summarizing complex, detailed material independently or from tape or oral instructions, letters, notices, bulletins or other material
• Maintaining a variety of complex filing systems, records, and reports
• Effective analysis, interpretation and documentation of research projects

Ability to:

• Maintain regular, predictable and reliable attendance during scheduled hours
• Maintain confidentiality and communicate with tact and diplomacy
• Participate as a contributing member of a service-oriented team
• Work independently as necessary
• Utilize social media, website platforms and other media to effectively communicate city-related information
• Analyze, research and interpret codes, regulations, standards, plans and specifications
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, management, vendors, outside agencies, community groups and the general public; present a positive image of the City in a variety of circumstances
• Demonstrate positive and effective interaction and communication with individuals of diverse social and economic backgrounds
• Analyze situations accurately and adopting an effective course of action.
• Organize work for maximum efficiency
• Effectively communicate complex and technical concepts orally and in writing to variety of audiences in a clear, effective and professional manner
• Attend to details while keeping big-picture goals in mind and creative problem-solving skills
• Work on several projects or issues simultaneously
• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide with accuracy; compute rate, ratio, and percent; and create graphs and charts

Licenses, Certifications and Other Requirements:

• Completion of position-relevant background check
• Valid State of Washington driver’s license and a driving record that meets the city’s requirements
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred
• Multilingual is desirable

Supplemental Information

How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
  
 In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: 
 

• An attached resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached cover letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. **Please note:   Phone number AND email address are required for all professional references This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

The City of Lake Stevens is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, veteran’s status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. 

There are no limitations to who’s a best fit to serve this community. If we contact you for an interview and you need specific accommodations, please let us know. Please contact Human Resources at (425) 622-9422, ten (10) days in advance to allow time for us to make proper arrangements.  You’re also welcome to mail your request to City of Lake Stevens Human Resources, P.O. Box 257, Lake Stevens, WA 98258; or email to arose@lakestevenswa.gov.   

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Salary $31.54 – $49.29 Hourly

Location Bellingham, WA 98226

Job Type Full-Time

Job Number P300/320 0824

Department Planning & Development Services

Opening Date 12/18/2024

Closing Date 1/12/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

The Whatcom County Planning and Development Services Department is seeking to fill the position of Planner I/II (DOQ).

This position provides professional planning services to ensure growth and development occurs in a manner that addresses public health, safety, welfare, and quality of life for citizens of Whatcom County. This position will be assigned to work at the Permit Center front counter and provide excellent customer service to citizens seeking to submit building and land use permits and applications.

Essential Job Duties:

• Reviews permit applications to ensure accuracy, completeness and compliance with legal standards and requirements.
• Provides information to the public on departmental activities, answering questions related to building, zoning land use regulations and permit processes and requirements.
• Organizes, coordinates and facilitates the planning and development process, as assigned.
• Exercises independent judgment in analyzing problems, issues and situations. Works under general supervision.
• Represents Whatcom County by maintaining a professional approach and demeanor in all activities.

Initial area of assignment: Permit Center

Supervisor: Administrative Manager

Hours of Work: Monday – Friday 8 AM – 5 PM

For more information, please review the following:   

• Planner I job description
• Planner II job description
• Planning and Development Services Website

This position may be filled as a Planner I or II depending on qualifications.  Consideration will be given to candidates not meeting one year of professional planning experience. Compensation for those not meeting the minimum qualifications will be reduced until the qualifications are met.  See Supplemental Information for more details.

PLEASE NOTE:  Due to the duties and nature of this position,  it is not eligible for telework assignments. This position requires working 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday, in-person, in the Planning and Development Services office located at 5280 Northwest Drive, Bellingham, WA.

Qualifications

PLANNER I:  Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Planning, or a related field, AND one year of increasingly responsible, paid, professional experience.

PLANNER II:  Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Planning or a related field AND three years of increasingly responsible, paid, professional experience INCLUDING at least 2 years of professional experience in area of assignment with in the last 5 years.

• A Master’s degree in a related field can be substituted for up to six months of experience.
• Experience with permit tracking software, presentation software, geographical positioning systems and geographic information systems is preferred.
• Knowledge of ecological systems similar to Whatcom County is preferred.
• Knowledge of and experience working with local and state governments and agencies is preferred.

The ideal candidate will possess: 

• Verifiable building permit and/or planning experience.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working directly with the public in a customer service role.
• A proven ability to provide excellent and timely customer service.

At its sole discretion, Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.

Supplemental Information

Salary Range: 

• Planner I:     MCBA – Range 160.0
  Anticipated Hiring Range:  $31.54 –  $34.05 per hour
• Planner II:    MCBA – Range 180.0  
  Anticipated Hiring Range:  $34.27 – $36.96 per hour

For those not meeting the minimum qualifications for this position, the position would be paid at Range 150.0.  The anticipated salary placement would be at the entry rate which is $30.31 per hour. Once 1 year of experience was met, the incumbent would be paid at Range 160.0.  See link for full Salary Range. 

Hiring rate depends on qualifications. Hiring rate typically is limited to entry to mid of the posted salary range (posted above), subject to required approvals.This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any negotiated Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). 

For more information about the Planning and Development Services Department, please see their website.

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