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Position Description:

Please note: Application may not be accepted if it is incomplete. Adding your resume and/or cover letter in lieu of the application may not be accepted as well.

We’re seeking an Urban Forester to help grow and care for the City’s urban forest through the Urban Forest Management Plan. This role supports development review, planning and policy work, and helps share information with the public about urban forestry programs within Bothell.

Recruitment Information:

• This is a full-time, limited-term position authorized through June 1, 2029.
• The first round of application will be reviewed: Tuesday, April 28
• Default schedule will be the following: 5/8’s
• Note: This role will begin as onsite for up to the first six months, with opportunities to work a hybrid schedule after six months.

What will you do in this position?

• Plan, coordinate, and carry out a program or project identified in the City’s Urban Forest Management Plan to support the long-term health, sustainability, and expansion of the urban forest.
• Examine development proposals, building permits, and land use applications to ensure compliance with City tree protection, landscaping, and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical expertise and recommendations on tree preservation, planting, removal, maintenance, and risk management.
• Assist in developing, revising, and implementing urban forestry policies, codes, standards, and regulations.
• Coordinate with City departments, developers, contractors, utilities, and other stakeholders to support urban forestry requirements, best management practices, and management of the City’s tree inventory, canopy assessments, and strategic forestry goals and metrics.

A successful candidate in this position will:

• Quickly identify challenges and apply logical, evidence-based approaches to resolve them.
• Own outcomes and take responsibility for meeting deadlines and expectations.
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally across a variety of settings.
• Support team goals by collaborating respectfully, building cross-departmental relationships, and maintaining trust through consistent, open, and reliable actions.
• Provide clear, helpful, and responsive service in all interactions.

About City of Bothell: 

• The City is comprised of 13.6 square miles within both King and Snohomish Counties and is home to 51,760 people (2025). This figure is projected to grow to nearly 75,000 over the next 20 years in tandem with Bothell’s increasingly vibrant downtown and life sciences employment cluster near the I-405 corridor.
• Learn more about the City’s Organizational Values and the Bothell’s City Council 2040 Vision and Strategic Priorities.
• Learn more about the City of Bothell’s Community Development Department here!

 To read the full job description and review the minimum qualifications, click here. 

We are committed to being a safe, equitable, and inclusive workplace and community. 

The City of Bothell is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal opportunity for all employees and applicants.  Our employees are people with different strengths, experiences and backgrounds, who share a passion for improving people’s lives.    The City of Bothell recruits, hires, trains, promotes, compensates, and administers all personnel actions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sex stereotyping, pregnancy (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, ancestry, medical condition, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.     

We seek to recruit and hire talented and engaged job candidates from a widely diverse range of backgrounds.  We celebrate the diversity in our workplace and community and believe it makes us stronger.  

If you need a reasonable accommodation to support your participation in the recruitment and selection process, please send an email to hrhelpdesk@bothellwa.gov.

To learn more about the City of Bothell’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, visit the DEI at Bothell Webpage.

Why Bothell?

Bothell offers a career-enriching opportunity to apply your skills and experience in a way that has a positive effect on the community. We encourage professional growth and for employees to “think outside the box”. We value work-life balance and provide paid vacation and sick leave benefits. 
 
We offer ample time off, including 11 paid holidays as well as 2 personal holidays. As an employee, you have access to a robust benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision for you and your family. We also offer life and disability insurance, state pension and deferred compensation for retirement. Commute trip reduction, alternative work schedules, flexible work environment, and hybrid work options are available when appropriate. The City of Bothell creates an environment that supports wellness practices which enhance the quality of life for City employees and encourage and incentivize participation in an employee wellness program. As a result, the City is a recipient of the Association of Washington Cities WellCity Award.

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Planning, Geography, Community Development, Environmental Studies, Natural Resource Management or related field.

Minimum Experience: Three years of work experience with a municipal or private land use planning organization OR any combination of education and experience which would provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job.

Minimum Certifications: n/a

Other Requirements:

• Bilingual in Spanish preferred.
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License if driving a vehicle for County business.

Position Summary:

Under the direction of the Planning Manager, this position performs a variety of professional land use planning work including assisting with the administration of the Benton County Rural Water Supply Program (RWSP); provides information to the public, elected officials, Hearing Examiner, Planning Commission members and other County departments.

Essential Functions:

The following duties are essential for this position. However, they are not to be construed as exclusive or all–inclusive. To be successful in this position, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may also be required or assigned.

• Discusses land use proposals with the public in person or over the phone.
• Assists members of the public with land use questions and answers customer’s inquiries regarding the planning process, zoning, timetables, and related rules, regulations, and/or policies.
• Assists members of the public with planning and RWSP application processes.
• Interprets and applies federal, state and county codes for land use and RWSP inquiries and proposals.
• Reviews planning and building division proposals for setbacks, proposed land use, and critical areas; provides approvals or denials after reviewal.
• Reviews and processes boundary line adjustments, lot consolidations, SEPA reviews and Conditional Use Permits.
• Processes, evaluates, and issues RWSP applications requests and coordinates with the public.
• Reviews land use development proposals by evaluating the scope and purpose of each project, researching specific property limitations, and reviewing the Benton County Code for compliance.
• Performs site review and field investigations to analyze application, proposals, or complaints.
• Tracks water mitigation certifications, water bank uses (through a third-party software program), meter installation, and enforcement activities associated with the RWSP.
• Represents the County and presents land use proposals at the Hearings Examiner, Planning Commission, and Board of County Commissioner meetings
• Represents the County and presents on local ground water issues at professional meetings.
• Collects and reviews/analyzes various environmental documents, critical area reports, wetland delineations, geological hazardous risk assessments, and flood applications.
• Provides technical and staff support to the senior planning staff on various projects as needed.
• Attends regular division meetings to stay current on interdivisional happenings and coworker workloads. 
• Composes professional documents such as staff reports, legal covenants, and general correspondence.
• Enters, scans, updates, and maintains information in spreadsheets, databases, and reports.
• Maintains department-specific electronic and paper filing and record systems and documents to provide easy access to records and information; provides retention of records as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices and techniques used in land use planning and water resources.
• Local, state and federal laws relating to land use planning, water resources, and environmental issues.
• Principles of site impact analysis for development projects.
• Principles of geography.
• Legal descriptions, cartography and GIS systems.
• Administrative policies and procedures of the County.
• The County’s and Division’s operating requirements, policies, procedures, and practices; and local, state, and federal regulations related to department programs and operations.
• Current office practices and procedures.
• Operation of standard office equipment and software consistent with this position.

Skill in:

• Analyzing environmental and land use information to identify options, develop mitigation strategies, resolve problems, apply solutions, guidelines and policy to field problems and other work assignments.
• Identifying technical and operational problems and recommending appropriate corrective actions.
• Organizational and time management to prioritize duties to accomplish a high volume of work product while adapting to constant changes in priority.
• Analyzing complex administrative information and issues, defining problems and evaluating alternatives, and recommending methods, procedures, and techniques for resolution of issues.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and present water usage data by utilizing Excel for data manipulation and reporting.

Ability to:

• Read and interpret technical data, legal descriptions, maps and aerial photos.
• Review plans and apply provisions of the ordinances and codes to determine compliance with such regulations and to apply regulations to field conditions.
• Interpret and implement local policies and procedures; written instructions, general correspondence; Federal, State, and local regulations.
• Perform detailed work accurately and independently in compliance with stringent time limits with minimal direction and supervision.
• Apply sound judgment and discretion in performing duties, resolving problems and interpreting policies and regulations.
• Read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position.
• Prepare and maintain accurate and concise records and reports.
• Communicate detailed and often sensitive information effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Maintain professionalism at all times.
• Maintain effective working relationships with individuals within and outside the organization.
• Maintain confidentiality and discretion regarding business-related files, reports and conversations, within the provisions of the Public Records Act and other applicable State and Federal statutes and regulations.
• Work the allocated hours of the position.
• Travel overnight for occasional training and employee development opportunities as assigned.

Physical and Work Environment:

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

• This work involves occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds within a limited range for access to storage boxes; work regularly requires sitting, frequently requires standing, speaking or hearing, using hands to finger, handle or feel and repetitive motions and occasionally requires walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, climbing stairs and ladders and reaching with hands and arms.
• Work has standard vision requirements.
• Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word.
• Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels.
• Work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data and observing general surroundings and activities.
• Work may involve mobility over rough or difficult terrain. Work is performed daily both in and outdoors under all weather conditions and includes exposure to inclement weather, noise, vibrations, airborne materials, and active construction sites.
• Work is generally in a moderately noisy office setting and in the field with occasional exposure to irate customers and citizen groups.

Position Description:  

Administers the implementation of zoning, subdivision, shoreline management, historic preservation, and other land use ordinances; provides public information, work plans, and budgets; and ensures implementation of the Steilacoom Comprehensive Plan.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications: 

• BA in Urban Planning or related field.  
• Progressively responsible professional planning experience may be substituted for education. 

Desirable Qualifications: 

• Two years (current) urban planning/project experience. 
• Public speaking skills. 
• Grant writing experience. 
• SEPA, Shoreline Management and Growth Management Act knowledge/experience. 
• Experienced in using geographic information systems (GIS) technology (ESRI/ArcGIS) in support of planning functions and departmental processes. 

Benefits: 

Washington state retirement, medical (incl. employee assistance program / EAP), dental, vision, disability, life, vacation/sick leave, holiday pay, longevity, optional (employee funded) deferred compensation and supplemental insurance plans.

Work Environment/Conditions:  

• Daily work in office and outdoors in all types of weather.  Driving/Inspection of various sites.  
• Work may involve occasional attendance at evening meetings. 

Physical Requirements:  

The incumbent must be able to traverse uneven terrain as the worksite occasionally involves outdoor locations.  The position requires walking, standing, sitting, and the ability to occasionally lift/move up to 30 lbs. The incumbent must have the ability to effectively communicate with groups and individuals in person, via phone, and in writing.  

Application Process: 

Supplemental information is available at www.townofsteilacoom.org/234/Employment.  A PC fillable application is available at www.townofsteilacoom.org/DocumentCenter/View/330 . Submit a Town of Steilacoom application, a cover letter, and your resume in one of the following ways: 

Mail – Town of Steilacoom

Attn: Human Resources
2301 Worthington Street
Steilacoom, Washington 98388  

Email – micki.sterbick@ci.steilacoom.wa.us.   

Please note on the application the position for which you are applying.     

The Town of Steilacoom is an Equal Opportunity Employer 

Are you looking for a place to work that is MORE THAN just the place where you work? Do you want to be part of a blossoming department, and an organization that is striving to become a prime destination for municipal employees who truly believe in public service? Do you place a high value on work-life balance? If your answer is Yes, then you’ve come to the right place!

About City of Pacific:

The City of Pacific, population 7,270, is conveniently located in South Puget Sound, within 25 minutes of Tacoma and 35 minutes of Seattle with easy access to the Pacific Ocean, and the Cascade Mountain Range, with all the activities and opportunities that come with such a great location. This, along with a very competitive salary and benefit package, and a rewarding work environment that is supportive of a positive work-life balance, makes the City of Pacific a Great place to work!

About the Position:

You will be part of a multi-disciplinary team responsible for ensuring consistent and timely permit application processing, environmental and development plan review, and customer and client assistance. You’ll assume a key role in leading the Department’s current planning program and supporting the Community Development Director in aspects of the long-range planning program. This position requires hard work, excellent organizational habits, attention to detail, customer service skills, and teamwork! – Here is the full Job Description. In exchange for your hard work and dedication the City will provide you with an excellent benefit package, a salary range of $7,581.83 to $8,832.25, and a work week that typically ends at Noon on Friday!

From the Department Director: “The Community Development Department is a team of dedicated people passionate about their service to our community. We are continually working to better ourselves through professional growth, efficient and understanding public service, and organizational improvements, while balancing the equally important needs of our personal lives. To work in this department is to believe that employment with the City of Pacific can be oriented towards a fun, family, and focused environment.”

Come Join Us! 

To Apply: You must submit, a Cover Letter, Resume, and a completed City of Pacific Application Form.   The position is open until filled, with first review of applications on April 10th. 

Submit your application material via email to gmartinez@pacificwa.gov or mail to:

City of Pacific
Attn: George Martinez
City Administrator/Personnel Director
100 3^rd Ave. S.E
Pacific, WA 98047

Contact us at gmartinez@pacificwa.gov or 253-929-1105, with any questions.

The City only accepts application materials in response to an advertised position. A great resource for local government jobs is the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) AWC JobNet (wacities.org). Good Luck with your career search, and please check back with the City of Pacific in the future.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The City of Pacific is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to ensuring all current and potential employees will be recruited, selected, trained, promoted, compensated, and if necessary disciplined or terminated without regard to sex, race, religion, marital status, military status, age, national origin, sexual orientation, color, creed, ancestry, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Responsible for managing and administering a wide range of department level administrative and technical program activities and complex projects related to housing for the City of Olympia (City).

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Plans, organizes and directs all aspects of the Housing Division with the Community Planning and Economic Development Department.
• Builds and sustains strong working relationships with city staff, community groups, stakeholders, other public agencies, neighboring jurisdictions and tribes to advance housing and homeless response programs.
• Serves as a technical and policy advisor to the Community Planning and Economic Development Director, City Council, Regional Housing Council and community.
• Creates a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion to ensure a positive, healthy and welcoming environment for staff and community.
• Responds to and resolves potentially confrontational situations.
• Supports a trauma-informed, value-based approach to the work of the Housing Division.

To Apply:

Submit a cover letter, resume and written responses to the supplemental questions by attaching them to your electronic application. The cover letter must be no more than two pages long and must include specific examples of how you meet the ideal candidate profile above.

To be considered for the first round of interviews, apply no later than April 13, 2026.

Contact Information:

If you have questions about the position and/or requirements, please contact Tim Smith, Community Planning & Economic Development Director via email at tsmith@ci.olympia.wa.us.

Salary: $132,187 – $198,281

Essential Functions:

The essential functions of this position include but are not limited to:

1. Plans, organizes and directs all aspects of Housing and Homeless Response such as housing policy and affordable housing development, rental registry and inspection program, encampments, and tiny home villages.
2. Reviews and evaluates work methods and procedures; meets with management staff to identify and resolve problems. 
3. Assesses and monitors workload; identifies opportunities for improvement and implements changes.
4. Selects, motivates, and evaluates personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; implements discipline procedures per established policies, procedures, and executive guidance.
5. Oversees and participates in the development and administration of the departmental budget; approves the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; approves expenditures and implements budgetary adjustments as appropriate and necessary.
6. Serves as a technical and policy advisor to the department director, City Council, Regional Housing Council and community.
7. Serves as lead, sponsor, liaison to or member of various internal and external committees, boards, advisory groups, and multi-jurisdictional or inter-disciplinary teams.
8. Serves as a member of the Community Planning & Economic Development (CPED) Department Leadership Team. 
9. Develops collaborative relationships with elected officials, community groups, stakeholders, other public agencies, neighboring jurisdictions, tribes and employees to advance housing and homeless response programs.
10. Works collaboratively with the department director in the establishment and achievement of department goals and performance measures. 
11. Monitors federal, state and local regulations and federal and state legislation regarding housing, renter protections and homeless services. 
12. Stays current on the latest best practices and innovations regarding affordable housing and homeless response services.
13. Creates a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion to ensure a positive, healthy and welcoming environment for staff and community.
14. Coordinates with City departments to evaluate, develop and strengthen departmental and City-wide policies, procedures and regulations in support of housing program goals.
15. Communicates effectively and develops communications strategies regarding housing division roles, responsibilities and programs.
16. Supports a trauma-informed, value-based approach to the division’s work.
17. Establishes and maintains relationships and engages in professional conversations which may involve controversial policies or policy changes and politically sensitive issues, all of which may be difficult and potentially confrontational.
18. Measures and tracks metrics for success; monitors and evaluates progress towards meeting adopted housing goals.
19. Oversees administration of grants in support of Housing and Homeless Response programs. 
20. Engages in strategic planning to address current and projected gaps in housing and homeless response services and funding. 
21. Punctual, regular and reliable attendance is essential for successful job performance.

Typical Qualifications

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

1. Advanced knowledge of municipal organization and management principles.
2. Advanced knowledge of quality improvement processes and performance measurement systems.
3. Advanced knowledge of principles of effective human resource management.
4. Advanced knowledge of project management.
5. Advanced knowledge of federal, state and local laws, policies and regulations pertaining to housing and homeless response.
6. Advanced knowledge of current principles, best management practices and theory related to housing and homeless response.
7. Knowledge of management strategies regarding behavioral health and substance use altercation. 
8. Advanced knowledge of municipal budgeting practices and principles.
9. Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products (Word, Outlook and Excel) and applicable department / organization specific software; ability to learn and become proficient in the use of other specialized software as may be required.
10. Skill in negotiating with potentially competing interests.
11. Ability to lead and motivate others to achieve goals.
12. Ability to formulate, initiate and administer policies and procedures for effective fiscal control.
13. Ability to effectively present information and technical advice to top management and relevant individuals.
14. Ability to read, analyze and interpret program related laws and regulations and establish necessary work processes and procedures. 
15. Ability to manage multiple priorities to ensure that deadlines are met and to set priorities that move projects through efficiently to achieve customer and quality objectives.
16. Ability to analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations and action plans in support of goals. 
17. Ability to conduct complex negotiations, mediate conflicts, sort out issues and manage change in relation to overall City goals and objectives in respectful and direct manner.
18. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those interacted with during work regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, military service or diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
19. General awareness of or willingness to learn affordable housing financing. 

Experience/Education:

• High school diploma or GED and twelve (12) years of increasingly responsible local government, community engagement or non-profit management experience, including at least three (3) years of supervisory experience in housing and homeless response or similar fields as listed in the subsequent numbering; 
• OR associate degree in social work, planning, social justice, public administration, communications, public policy or a related field and ten (10) years of experience as listed above; 
• OR bachelor’s degree in social work, planning, social justice, public administration, communications, public policy or a related field and eight (8) years of experience as listed above; 
• OR master’s degree in social work, planning, social justice, public administration, communications, public policy or a related field and six (6) years of experience as listed above;
• OR a combination of experience, certification, education and training that demonstrates expertise in the related areas.

Special Requirements: A valid Washington State driver’s license may be required.

Union: Independents

Compensation (minimum-maximum): $132,187.00 – $198,281.00

Exempt: Yes

For general application or position questions please contact the hiring supervisor or Human Resources at humanresources@ci.olympia.wa.us.

The City of Olympia complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Manny Bosser, Director of Human Resources, at (360)753-8309 or mbosser@ci.olympia.wa.us. This contact is for ADA accommodations only. If you have questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the manager noted in the Contact section near the top of this recruitment.

The Skagit Council of Governments (SCOG) is currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of ASSOCIATE PLANNER to join our professional team.

SCOG is a regional agency comprised of member jurisdictions from throughout Skagit County in Washington state. SCOG is the federal metropolitan planning organization (MPO) and state regional transportation planning organization (RTPO) in Skagit County. SCOG’s offices are in downtown Mount Vernon.

We are seeking to employ an experienced, versatile, hard-working, and responsible planning professional to help successfully create and manage regional transportation plans and programs.

Our ideal candidate will have experience working on a diverse variety of transportation planning tasks, as well as skills in GIS, Adobe, and Microsoft 365. The ideal candidate will have professional experience in Washington State and American Institute of Certified Planners certification and/or Professional Transportation Planner certification.

The position is FLSA Exempt.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, regional planning, transportation planning, economics, geography, engineering or closely related discipline. A planning degree obtained from a Planning Accreditation Board accredited program is desirable.
• Three to five (3-5) years of progressively responsible experience in transportation planning, GIS and/or travel-demand analysis, modeling and forecasting; or any combination of education and experience that would provide the applicant with proven skills, knowledge, and ability required to perform the job.
• Strong writing, speaking, problem-solving and graphic presentation skills are highly desirable.
• You must be authorized to work in the United States. A form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification will be completed at start of employment.
• Employment with SCOG is contingent a criminal background check, professional references check, working history check and driving record check.

Compensation:

The annual salary range for this position is $82,872 – $100,416, depending on experience and qualifications.

SCOG offers a comprehensive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and financial security of its employees. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, participation in the Washington State Retirement System (PERS), paid vacation and sick leave, and 12 paid holidays per year. Employees also have access to professional development opportunities and a flexible work schedule to support work life balance.

How to Apply:

To be considered for the position, send a completed employment application, cover letter and résumé by email to Jill Boudreau, Executive Director, at jillb@scog.net by April 17, 2026.

Responsible for supervising, organizing and administering one or more functional areas of the planning process for the City of Olympia (City). Work involves providing significant professional and technical expertise in a variety of planning and development functional areas or programs. Initiates and coordinates process improvements as necessary across multiple disciplines.

Series Concept:

• The Planning Manager is the supervisory level of the planning series which includes Planning Manager, Senior Planner, Associate Planner, and Assistant Planner.
• Positions allocated to the Planning Manager are distinguished by the level of supervisory and managerial level responsibilities assigned, broad process/program area responsibility; project complexity; and acting as project lead when appropriate.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Ability to lead the current planning team and plan reviewers in review of large and complex development proposals, ensuring compliance with municipal code design and development standards.
• Ability to lead the long-range planning team in the management of long-range planning projects and programs, preparing a variety of code and comprehensive plan amendments, and presenting proposals to advisory groups and elected officials.
• Experience conducting meaningful and extensive public outreach processes.
• Effectively manage team workloads in a demanding and fast-paced work environment.
• Demonstrate skills in dispute resolution and technical fields such as environmental impact assessment and architectural design.
• Planning manager acts as an ombudsman to affordable housing and middle housing projects. This person works collaboratively and creatively with other Community Planning and Development staff, housing staff, public works staff, and the developer to proactively guide affordable housing and middle housing projects through the permitting process in a timely manner.

Salary: $131,121 to $159,379

To Apply:

Please submit resume and cover letter including specific examples of how you meet the ideal candidate profile (above) with your online application.

To be considered for the first round of interviews apply no later than April 10, 2026.

Contact: For questions about this position, contact Nicole Floyd, Director of Planning at nfloyd@ci.olympia.wa.us.

Essential Functions:

The essential functions of this position include but are not limited to:

1. Reviews and evaluates work methods and procedures; meets with management staff to identify and resolve problems. 
2. Assesses and monitors workload; identifies opportunities for improvement and implements changes. 
3. Selects, motivates, and evaluates personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; makes recommendations regarding discipline and termination. 
4. Responsible for coordinating one or more functional areas of the planning process such as: current planning, comprehensive planning, urban growth management and transportation. 
5. Correctly interprets and efficiently implements all applicable policies and procedures. 
6. Advises staff on ambiguous or conflicting code language to ensure consistent, constitutional, legal and appropriate code interpretations. 
7. Advises appointed and elected officials on public policy issues, planning procedures, comprehensive and special plans and regulatory ordinances. 
8. Communicates planning issues and coordinates activities with executives, administrators, other divisions, departments, and City staff as appropriate. 
9. Coordinates data collection and processing across functional areas to facilitate a consistent and comprehensive information system. 
10. Prepares and presents reports to hearing bodies, committees, community groups and private organizations to explain the impact of planning and development on the community. 
11. Reviews projects to ensure compliance against multiple code requirements; coordinates with other reviewers within multiple divisions and jurisdictions.   
12. Negotiates, administers and maintains agreements and contracts with the Office of the Hearing Examiner, public agencies, funding agencies and private organizations. 
13. Pursues and prepares grant proposals by conducting research, gathering internal and external data to support grants requests, writing drafts, and obtaining approvals. 
14. Provides technical and administrative support to various City Departments and committees.  
15. Responds to public inquiries with information on the planning process and public policy. 
16. Participates in inter-governmental committees to analyze, evaluate, and resolve public policy issues. 
17. Manages and coordinates research, analysis and preparation of documents for public policy issues, planning and community development. 
18. May be accountable for current and long-range planning work which encompasses managing the Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update under the Growth Management Act. 
19. May serve as the City’s State Environmental Policy Act Official which entails reviewing projects for potential adverse environmental impacts and implementing mitigation if necessary; conducting environmental impact assessments; and coordinating with federal, state, tribal and local jurisdictions prior to issuing determinations. 
20. May serve as the City’s Shoreline Administrator which entails ensuring all City works and project permits are consistent with the Shoreline Management Act and Shoreline Master Program.  
21. May provide technical subject matter expertise for City staff and external customers regarding shoreline permit processes and submittal requirements.    
22. May schedule and motivate personnel; provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; make recommendations regarding disciplinary action. 
23. May be responsible for updating the Capital Facilities Plan on an annual basis. 
24. Punctual, regular and reliable attendance is essential for successful job performance. 

Typical Qualifications:

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of planning principles, practices and techniques related to functional areas including land use, transportation, environmental impacts and urban growth management. 
• Thorough knowledge of a specific planning area and its relationship to the comprehensive planning process. 
• Thorough knowledge of the comprehensive planning process and associated methodologies and techniques. 
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, methodologies and techniques utilized to effectively manage and motivate a diverse workforce. 
• Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products (Word, Outlook and Excel) and applicable department and organization specific software and ability to learn and become proficient in the use of other specialized software as may be required. 
• Skill in preparing and administering plans based on survey and analysis of data, citizen participation and agency consultation. 
• Ability to direct, lead, motivate, influence and guide all levels of employees toward accomplishment of department mission and goals as a service-oriented team. 
• Ability to formulate, initiate and administer policies and procedures for effective fiscal control. 
• Ability to correctly interpret and efficiently implement all applicable policies and procedures.  
• Ability to develop, manage, implement and monitor work programs including budgets, work schedules, grant requirements and progress reviews. 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities to ensure that deadlines are met and to set priorities that move projects through efficiently to achieve customer and quality objectives. 
• Ability to identify potential issues, modify processes and resolve conflict as the need arises.  
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups regarding complex or controversial public policy issues or regulations. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those interacted with during work regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, military service or diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. 

Experience/Education: 

High school diploma or GED and ten (10) years of increasingly responsible urban planning experience pertaining to land use, permitting, environmental protection and long-range planning, including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience; OR associate degree in a related field and eight (8) years of experience as listed above; OR bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public administration or a related field and six (6) years of experience as listed above; OR master’s degree in urban planning, public administration or a related field and four (4) years of experience as listed above; OR a combination of experience, certification, education and training that demonstrates expertise in the related areas. 

Special Requirements: 

1. A valid Washington State driver’s license may be required. 
2. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred. 

Union: Independents

Compensation (minimum-maximum): $131,121.00 – $159,379.00

Exempt: Yes

For general application or position questions please contact the hiring supervisor or Human Resources at humanresources@ci.olympia.wa.us.

The City of Olympia complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Manny Bosser, Director of Human Resources, at (360)753-8309 or mbosser@ci.olympia.wa.us. This contact is for ADA accommodations only. If you have questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the manager noted in the Contact section near the top of this recruitment.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a Mid‑ to Senior‑level Land Use Planner with strong experience in Washington State planning frameworks, including the Growth Management Act (GMA), SEPA, comprehensive planning, and zoning code development. In this role, you will lead complex planning projects, manage client relationships, and provide strategic guidance to both internal teams and public‑sector partners.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys a mix of technical planning work, project management, and public‑facing engagement—and who thrives in a collaborative, small‑team environment.

About Us:

We are a small, well‑respected planning consultancy based in Everett, Washington, partnering with public agencies across the region to deliver thoughtful, technically sound, and community‑focused planning solutions. Our work spans current and long‑range planning, permitting, development code updates, SEPA environmental review, and contract planning services for multiple jurisdictions.

Because we’re a small firm, you’ll have a meaningful voice in shaping projects, mentoring staff, and contributing to the direction and growth of the company. We value collaboration, curiosity, and commitment to helping Washington communities thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical & Project Work:

• Prepare SEPA Environmental Checklists, project narratives, and land use entitlement
• Conduct land use analysis, environmental review, and policy research to support complex development and planning projects.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, and other design team partners to assemble
• Review development applications for consistency with local codes and state requirements on behalf of our contract city/county planners.
• Draft and update zoning code language, comprehensive plan elements, and policy documents.

Client & Agency Coordination:

• Maintain clear, proactive communication with clients, agency staff, and project partners.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to public‑sector clients on planning processes, regulatory interpretation, and project strategy.
• Represent the firm in meetings with elected officials, planning commissions, and community stakeholders.

Leadership & Mentorship:

• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff.
• Lead project teams and contribute to firm‑wide planning initiatives.
• Help shape internal processes, best practices, and areas of practice growth.

Summary
This is a union position under the general supervision of the Community Development Director. The incumbent performs a wide range of advanced professional land use and environmental planning duties. Responsibilities include supporting major long-range planning initiatives and policy development efforts such as preparation and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan, development regulations, subarea plans, and strategic planning initiatives, while ensuring compliance with the Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).

The position also involves oversight and coordination of development review activities and land use and environmental permitting for complex current planning projects. Work requires the application of well-developed analytical, research, and writing skills in areas including site planning, subdivision design, urban design, environmental planning, and related land use disciplines.

Assignments frequently involve complex and sensitive issues requiring negotiation, independent judgment, and collaboration with multiple stakeholders. The Senior Planner works closely with citizens, applicants, elected officials, representatives from other agencies and jurisdictions, community organizations, and developers.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required due to frequent preparation of technical reports and presentations before the Planning Commission, City Council, and the public. Work is performed under established deadlines and often requires attendance at public meetings and hearings, many of which occur during evening hours.

Typical Qualifications

Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Landscape Architecture or a closely related field.
• Five years of municipal planning related experience, with at least three years in an associate planner position.
• Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered qualifying.

Licensing and Certification
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License with driving record free of serious or frequent violations
• American Institute of Certified Planner, AICP desirable

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Land Use Planning & Regulatory Compliance
Advanced knowledge of land use planning principles, zoning regulations, subdivision regulations, shoreline management, and environmental review requirements. Ability to interpret and apply municipal codes, development regulations, and state laws including SEPA and related regulatory frameworks.
• Development Review & Project Management
Ability to manage complex development proposals and discretionary land use applications from initial submittal through review, public hearings, decision-making, and implementation. Skilled in coordinating multi-departmental review processes and ensuring projects meet regulatory and policy requirements.
• Public Process & Hearing Procedures
Knowledge of quasi-judicial and legislative public processes, including Planning Commission, Hearing Examiner, and City Council procedures. Ability to prepare professional staff reports, present technical information clearly, and respond effectively to questions from decision-makers and the public.
• Long-Range Planning & Policy Development
Ability to conduct planning research and analysis and develop policy recommendations related to land use, transportation, economic development, environmental planning, and community development. Experience assisting with Comprehensive Plan updates, subarea plans, and development regulation amendments.
• Grant Administration & Program Management
Knowledge of grant funding processes including identifying funding opportunities, preparing grant applications, and administering grant-funded programs. Ability to monitor grant compliance, maintain documentation, coordinate program implementation, and prepare required financial and performance reports.
• Interagency Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City departments, consultants, regulatory agencies, elected officials, developers, and the public. Skilled in facilitating collaboration and resolving complex planning and development issues.
• Technical Analysis & Problem Solving
Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to evaluate development proposals, assess regulatory compliance, and develop practical solutions to planning challenges.
• Communication & Professional Representation
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to prepare technical reports, present information to public bodies, and represent the department in meetings with stakeholders, community groups, and partner agencies.
• Program Administration & Organizational Support
Ability to assist in departmental budgeting, manage consultant contracts and scopes of work, and support departmental initiatives and operational improvements.
• Other Skills
Ability to be coachable and open to feedback, collaborate effectively with others on a regular basis, and can demonstrate strong accountability for their work and responsibilities. They can contribute positively within a team environment while also working independently with minimal oversight, completing tasks reliably without the need for frequent reminders.