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The City of Sammamish is a safe, family-friendly suburb in the Seattle area. The community boasts amenities found in a much larger community, all while maintaining its small-town charm. Sammamish has quality neighborhoods, vibrant natural resources, high-quality schools, retail offerings, and an abundance of recreational opportunities.

Description

Join our team as Current Planning Manager and drive the city’s growth. Lead a high-performing team, oversee permits, apply codes and standards, and guide projects that transform the community. 

Why join us? 

• Impactful Work: Lead development that transforms the community and leaves a lasting impact.
• Professional Growth: Access to continuous learning opportunities and career advancement.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance, FSA, retirement plans, and generous paid time off (vacation and sick).
• Collaborative Environment: Work with a dedicated and supportive team passionate about public service.
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work schedules and a commitment to your well-being; 14 paid holidays plus a floating holiday.

The Current Planning Manager is responsible for leading the Community Development Department’s Current Planning workgroup in implementing the City’s land use and development permit functions, ensuring high-quality service and effective resolution of development-related issues for permit applicants and the public. Work involves applying land use regulations, zoning, codes, development standards, and environmental standards through review, approval, and inspection of permit applications. This position is responsible for implementing the City’s adopted Community Vision and Comprehensive Plan by guiding development activities to achieve desired community outcomes while maintaining compliance with applicable regulations and codes.

The Current Planning Manager reports to the Community Development Assistant Director (Development). The Current Planning workgroup is one of four groups within the Development division of the Community Development Department.

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The City of Sammamish is a safe, family-friendly suburb in the Seattle area. The community boasts amenities found in a much larger community, all while maintaining its small-town charm. Sammamish has quality neighborhoods, vibrant natural resources, high-quality schools, retail offerings, and an abundance of recreational opportunities.

Description

Step into a pivotal leadership role where your work directly shapes the future of the City. Lead a high-performing team, influence how development takes shape across the community, and help deliver services that are efficient, consistent, and aligned with the City’s long-term goals. 

Why join us? 

• Impactful Work: Lead development that transforms the community and leaves a lasting impact.
• Professional Growth: Access to continuous learning opportunities and career advancement.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance, FSA, retirement plans, and generous paid time off (vacation and sick).
• Collaborative Environment: Work with a dedicated and supportive team passionate about public service.
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work schedules and a commitment to your well-being; 14 paid holidays plus a floating holiday.

The Community Development Assistant Director (Development) is a senior leadership position responsible for directing the City’s development services operations and ensuring that development activity is managed in a manner that is efficient, consistent, legally compliant, and aligned with the City’s long-term vision. Reporting to the Community Development Director, this position provides strategic, operational, and technical oversight of the Current Planning, Permit Center, Building Services, and Code Compliance workgroups, guiding the review, permitting, inspection, and enforcement functions that support community development throughout the City.

The Assistant Director (Development) ensures that daily development services activities are effectively integrated with the City’s adopted Community Vision, Comprehensive Plan, development regulations, and applicable state, regional, and local requirements. This position is responsible for identifying and implementing operational improvements, strengthening cross-functional coordination, and supporting development outcomes that reflect the City’s policy objectives and community goals. As one of two Assistant Directors in the Department, the position works in close partnership with the Assistant Director (Policy) to maintain alignment between development services operations and the Department’s broader policy and legislative work.

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Note: Current Employees must use the Workday Job Hubs career section to apply for this position.

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

Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime)

Overview:Pay Range: $35.83 – $45.44 per hour (CTP Pay Plan, C43 Step 1-13)
Hiring Range: $35.83 – $ 38.02 per hour (CTP Pay Plan, C43 Step 1-4 DOQ)

Job Closing Date: April 2, 2026 with weekly reviews.

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.

Benefits included in position:
-Health Care Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Basic Life and Basic LTD)
-Retirement Benefits
-Paid Vacation
-Paid Holidays
-Paid Sick Leave

Note: This position is a Clerical, Technical & Professional Employees Group Bargaining Unit Position.

This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies that occur within 90 days of the closing of this position. (This excludes Yakima County Sheriff’s Office and Department of Corrections)

Responsibilities:

Essential Duties:

Development Project Review (under general supervision of a Section Manager):

Performs, conducts or assists with planning analyses related to processing of routine to more complex development project applications;

Participates in early assistance meetings with customers, providing feedback on project feasibility, approvals required, cost and timeline estimates;

Represents the Planning Division on Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDT), making agreements, decisions or commitments for the Section within the regulatory framework for an assigned project;

Provides technical guidance as needed by project coordinators in reviewing applications for completeness and preparing public notice;  

Prepares or drafts SEPA threshold environmental determinations and appropriate mitigation measures to address identified environmental impacts for consideration and approval by the SEPA Responsible Official;

Utilizing MDT, agency and neighborhood comments, evaluates projects and recommends options and conditions for ensuring the project’s consistency with applicable plans, policies, regulations, standards and criteria;

Prepares the Planning Division’s final written analyses, findings and conditions for inclusion in the MDT project decision or recommendation within timelines established by Section Managers, project coordinators and the project team;

Represents the MDT position to various hearing bodies, as assigned.

Policy and Technical Assistance:

Provides policy advice and technical assistance to the public, agencies and county staff relating to: plans, policies, ordinances, standards, regulatory and non-regulatory programs, federal and state statutes and administrative codes governing land development, environmental protection and growth management, within area(s) of assignment or expertise.

Public Outreach:

• Develops, coordinates and participates in public education/outreach efforts and special studies related to land use, environmental and natural resource planning issues and other program or project assignments:
• Organizes, facilitates and participates in meetings, group discussions, forums and open houses;
• Presents technical information through reports, GIS coverages and other maps, graphics, newsletters and news releases;
• Speaks before boards and commissions, the public, citizen groups and professional organizations;
• Ensures the availability of relevant public information on Section programs, projects and activities via the website; and,
• Responds to media inquiries as directed.
• Development and Maintenance of Plans, Programs and Regulations (performs or assists with a broader range of professional planning tasks):
• Drafts and assists in preparing goals, policies, planning, programming  regulatory and and/or non-regulatory options and updates, and other project assignments for review by Section/Division management or others;
• Researches, performs or participates in policy and technical analysis of subdivision, zoning, regulatory framework and other land development issues.
• Reviews plans, policies, programs and projects submitted by other divisions, departments, agencies and jurisdictions for consistency with adopted County plans and codes within area of responsibility;
• Serves as contact with other sections, divisions, departments and agencies on assigned programs or special projects;
• Assists in preparing Section or project level work programs and processes within allocated budget;
• Provides technical instruction to planners and other staff in area of specialization;
• Develops and/or uses GIS coverages for project assignments;
• Drafts grant applications to support Section, Division and Departmental programs;
• Schedules, coordinates, collects, assembles and prepares data, projections and reports.
• Other duties required.

Education & Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree in Planning, Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management, Geography, Geology or a field directly related to the area(s) of assignment AND three (3) years of increasingly responsible professional experience (including related internships), demonstrating knowledge and experience in one or more areas within the Planning field related to the area of assignment, including: Environmental Planning (SEPA, Critical Areas/Shorelines and Natural Resources) Transportation Planning, Current Planning (Subdivision and Zoning), and Comprehensive Long Range Planning; OR any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the essential duties of the job.

*A Masters’ Degree may substitute for one year of experience.*

Required:    

• a valid US Drivers’ License at time of appointment; and
• successful completion of a general employment verification.

Preferred:   

• Bilingual in Spanish;
• Experience with Washington State land use and environmental protection law;
• Specialized training in environmental or natural resource issues, projects (SEPA, GMA, Critical Areas, Shorelines); and,
• Additional degrees, professional certifications, recognition, awards and licenses that demonstrate acquisition and application of the required knowledge, and abilities to be successful in this position.

Equipment Used: Telephone, computer, printer, copy machine, fax machine, calculator, digital camera, shredder and other office equipment; audiovisual equipment; GPS unit; motor vehicle.

Working Conditions:

This position is rated as Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body.  Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.  Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Work is performed in an office and/or field environment with occasional exposure to irate customers and citizen groups.  To perform the essential tasks, incumbents must be able to: see, read, communicate in person and over the phone, in writing and perform basic keyboard functions.  May require: travel for data gathering, site inspection and analysis; and attendance at night meetings. Requires climbing, reaching, standing, stooping, walking on sometimes-uneven terrain, lifting and carrying objects, pushing/pulling objects; grasping, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. 

Environment: travel, multiple work locations, field work, and office and/or field environment with occasional exposure to irate customers and citizen groups.

Physical Demands: bending, carrying, handling, lifting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, fingering, balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, kneeling, hearing, smelling, talking, and visual acuity.

Intellectual Demands: ability to multitask, confidentiality, ability to work under pressure, ability to articulate information in conversations, ability to follow written instruction, and ability to follow verbal instruction.

Position can be hybrid with schedule to be determined by the incumbent and supervisor.

Knowledge:

• customer service techniques and teambuilding concepts;
• presentation and meeting facilitation, including use of technology for displaying, analyzing and evaluating research data;
• research and analytical methods for planning projects including using fundamental mathematics, statistics, scientific methods and field practices for gathering and evaluating data;
• principles of site impact analysis for plan amendments and various project review;
• principles of geography, geomorphology and natural systems functions;
• legal descriptions, cartography and GIS systems;
• U.S. Census geography, demographics and methodologies.
• principles, methods and practices of planning related to the area of assignment, including: urban, regional, environmental, natural resource, transportation, and community development;
• public participation theory and practice including: methods of assessing areas of agreement and conflict among individuals or facilitation groups and techniques for mediating disputes and guiding them to consensus or informed consent;
• rules of grammar, spelling and punctuation used in professional report writing;
• micro-economic theories as applied to the effects of land use regulation; and,
• roles and responsibilities of federal, state and other local public and private organizations.

Skills (and abilities):

• instructing others in methods or procedures needed to carry out their work on assigned projects or tasks.
• critically analyzing and resolving customer service and internal work related problems;
• analyzing environmental and land use information to identify options, resolve problems, apply solutions, guidelines and policy to field problems and other work assignments;
• prioritizing multiple projects within established timelines and parameters;
• writing routine to complex technical reports and other documents;
• using a personal computer and related software applications, and operating basic office equipment;
• interpreting, applying and implementing land use policies and procedures;
• giving presentations, public speaking, and facilitating meetings;
• establishing and maintaining effective interpersonal relationships with County and other officials, at all organizational levels and with the public;
• ability to clearly speak, write and graphically illustrate in order to convey general and technical information;
• ability to: give and receive direction; understand, interpret and follow County and department personnel policies and procedures;
• researching, interpreting, evaluating and applying a wide variety of inter-related data, policies, laws, codes, and legislation to work assignments;
• reading and interpreting technical data, legal descriptions, maps and aerial photos;
• operating basic office equipment, scanners, plotters; public address systems and audio-visual presentation equipment;
• applying basic math, algebra and statistics in researching, gathering, organizing and analyzing data from a variety of sources; and,
• maintaining files.

“AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER”
Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans and the Disabled are encouraged to apply.

Yakima County ensures equal employment opportunities regardless of a person’s age, color, creed, sensory, mental or physical disability, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political belief, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and military status, or any other protected status under federal or state statute.

PAY TRANSPARENCY NONDISCRIMINATION PROVISION
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish the information.

Disabled applicants may request accommodation to participate in the job application and/or selection process for employment. Please contact Human Resources for further information.

Yakima County is a qualified Public Service entity for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, go to https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service or contact your federal loan servicer.

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, Yakima County will hire only United States citizens and aliens lawfully authorized to work in the United States.

Yakima County is an E-Verify Employer.

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Note: Current Employees must use the Workday Job Hubs career section to apply for this position.

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 I-J23-U30-H

Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime)

Overview:Pay Range: $30.12 – $38.20 per hour (CTP Pay Plan, B25 Step 1-13)
Hiring Range: $30.12 – $31.97 per hour (CTP Pay Plan, B25 Step 1-4 DOQ)

Job Closing Date: April 2, 2026 with weekly reviews

There is one Planner I opening with Yakima County Public Services, Planning Division. This position provides experienced professional planning expertise and recommendations on routine to moderately complex development projects and other assignments; provides technical assistance to the public and 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 for one of three divisions: natural resource planning and environmental protection, land use and development, and/or long range growth management planning.

Benefits included in position:
-Health Care Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Basic Life and Basic LTD)
-Retirement Benefits
-Paid Vacation
-Paid Holidays
-Paid Sick Leave

Note: This position is a Yakima County Public Services Department Clerical, Technical & Professional Employees Group Bargaining Unit Position.

This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies that occur within 90 days of the closing of this position. (This excludes Yakima County Sheriff’s Office and Department of Corrections)

Responsibilities:

Essential Duties:

Provides policy information and technical assistance to the public, agencies and county staff relating to: plans, policies, ordinances, standards, regulatory and non-regulatory programs, federal and state statutes and administrative codes governing land development, transportation, environmental protection and growth management, within area(s) of assignment or expertise.

Performs, conducts or assists with planning analyses related to processing of routine to moderately complex new development project applications. Duties include: initial project review with customer, completeness review, preparation of required notices, YCWRS, SEPA review, project review and coordinating with other agencies / organizations and drafting of final written analyses.

Drafts and assists in preparing Department goals, policies, planning, programming and/or regulatory options and updates, and other project assignments for review by Section/Division management or others.

Develops, coordinates and participates in public education/outreach efforts and special studies related to land use, transportation, environmental and natural resource planning issues and other program or project assignments. Schedules and facilitates meetings and provides technical expertise to organizations and media as needed.

Performs other duties as required including site inspections and may participate in public hearings.

Education and Experience:

Associate Degree or two-year technical certificate in Land Survey and Construction Design, Engineering, Geography, Geology, Geographic Information Services, Real Estate, paralegal or a field directly related to the area(s) of assignment AND two (2) years’ experience in the areas of permitting, code enforcement, real estate, architecture, land development, planning, engineering, construction or related industry environment functioning in a professional or administrative or program / project support role; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the position. 

NOTE: This would be defined as a High School Diploma/GED and four (4) years of experience functioning in a professional or administrative or program/project support role in the areas of permitting, code enforcement, administrative support, program coordination, project management, real estate, architecture, land development, planning, engineering, construction or related industry environment.  

Required:

• US Driver’s License at time of appointment; and,
• successful completion of general employment verification.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s Degree;
• bilingual in Spanish;
• experience with Washington State land use and environmental protection law;
• specialized training in environmental or natural resource issues, projects (SEPA, GMA, Critical Areas, Shorelines); and,
• additional degrees, professional certifications, recognitions, awards and licenses that demonstrate acquisition and application of the required knowledge, and abilities to be successful in this position are preferred.

Equipment Used: telephone, computer, calculator, audiovisual equipment, copy machine, fax machine, typewriter, microfiche, shredder, passenger vehicle.

Working Conditions: This position is rated as Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body.  Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.  Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met. 

Environment: multiple work locations, field work, may be exposed to hostile/angry individuals, and may work outside of standard business hours.

Physical Demands: bending, carrying, handling, lifting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, fingering, balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, kneeling, hearing, smelling, talking, and visual acuity.

Intellectual Demands: ability to multitask, confidentiality, ability to work under pressure, ability to articulate and communicate information in conversations, ability to follow written instructions, and ability to follow verbal instructions.

Knowledge:

• customer service techniques and teambuilding concepts;
• presentation and meeting facilitation, including use of technology for displaying, analyzing and evaluating research data;
• research and analytical methods for planning projects including using fundamental mathematics, statistics, demographics, scientific methods and field practices for gathering and evaluating data;
• principles of site impact analysis for development projects; Principles of geography, geomorphology and natural systems functions;
• legal descriptions, cartography and GIS systems; U.S. Census geography and methodology; micro-economic theories as applied to the effects of land use regulations;
• principles, methods and practices of planning related to the area of assignment, including: urban, regional, environmental, natural resource, transportation, and community development;
• public participation theory and practice including: methods of assessing areas of agreement and conflict among individuals or facilitation groups and techniques for mediating disputes and guiding them to consensus or informed consent;
•  applicable transportation planning policies, laws, regulations, ordinances, code principles and practices;
• roles and responsibilities of federal, state and other local public and private organizations; and,
• rules of grammar, spelling and punctuation used in professional report writing.

Skills (and abilities):

• critically analyzing and resolving customer service and internal work related problems;
• analyzing environmental, transportation and land use information to identify options, resolve problems, apply solutions, guidelines and policy to field problems and other work assignments;
• prioritizing multiple projects within established timelines and parameters;
• writing routine to moderately complex technical reports and other documents;
• interpreting, applying and implementing land use policies and procedures;
• giving presentations, public speaking, and facilitating meetings;
• establishing and maintaining effective interpersonal relationships with County and other officials, at all organizational levels and with the public;
• ability to clearly speak, write and graphically illustrate in order to convey general and technical information;
• ability to: give and receive direction; understand, interpret and follow County and department personnel policies and procedures;
• researching, interpreting, evaluating and applying a wide variety of inter-related data, policies, laws, codes and legislation to work assignments; technical data, legal descriptions, maps and aerial photos;
• using a personal computer and related software applications, and operating basic office equipment such as scanners, plotters; public address systems and audio-visual presentation equipment;
• applying basic math, algebra and statistics in researching, gathering, organizing and analyzing data from a variety of sources; and,
• maintaining files.

“AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER”
Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans and the Disabled are encouraged to apply.

Yakima County ensures equal employment opportunities regardless of a person’s age, color, creed, sensory, mental or physical disability, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political belief, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and military status, or any other protected status under federal or state statute.

PAY TRANSPARENCY NONDISCRIMINATION PROVISION
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish the information.

Disabled applicants may request accommodation to participate in the job application and/or selection process for employment. Please contact Human Resources for further information.

Yakima County is a qualified Public Service entity for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, go to https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service or contact your federal loan servicer.

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, Yakima County will hire only United States citizens and aliens lawfully authorized to work in the United States.

Yakima County is an E-Verify Employer.

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This position manages and participates in advanced, highly complex professional planning activities, including the development and implementation of studies, plans, policies and projects. Under the general supervision of the Deputy City Administrator, the Senior Transportation Planner’s primary function is to improve the City’s street and transportation systems. The incumbent performs all necessary functions in support of the Transportation Advisory Board and serves as a liaison for internal departments and outside agencies regarding transportation issues and projects.  The Senior Transportation Planner leads transportation planning projects—including the anticipated new light rail station– by formulating and defining program/project scope, performing research and analysis, preparing reports, and providing options and recommendations to internal staff, political bodies, and other interest groups and communities. Work at this level requires a high level of technical expertise, strategic thinking in developing and implementing major projects/programs, and significant ability to strategically and clearly communicate complicated concepts to political or community groups in highly charged settings.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

This position manages and participates in advanced, highly complex professional planning activities, including the development and implementation of studies, plans, policies and projects. Under the general supervision of the Deputy City Administrator, the Senior Transportation Planner’s primary function is to improve the City’s street and transportation systems. The incumbent performs all necessary functions in support of the Transportation Advisory Board and serves as a liaison for internal departments and outside agencies regarding transportation issues and projects.  The Senior Transportation Planner leads transportation planning projects—including the anticipated new light rail station– by formulating and defining program/project scope, performing research and analysis, preparing reports, and providing options and recommendations to internal staff, political bodies, and other interest groups and communities. Work at this level requires a high level of technical expertise, strategic thinking in developing and implementing major projects/programs, and significant ability to strategically and clearly communicate complicated concepts to political or community groups in highly charged settings.

Supervision Received and Exercised:

• May provide direction to positions assigned to the Engineer series, the Planner series, or other positions in the Public Works Engineering Department.
• May directly supervise one or more planning, engineering, or other staff.
• General supervision is provided by the Deputy City Administrator.

Equity Statement:

The City of Issaquah strives to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the community we serve. We value a variety of perspectives and life experiences and encourage people of all backgrounds to apply. Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state and local laws. We believe diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to the success of our City operations.

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The Department of Local Services- Director’s Office is looking for a seasoned Long Range Planner IV to support long-range land use policy, code amendment initiatives, comprehensive planning, and subarea planning projects that shape the future of King County.

As a Long Range Planner IV, you will help lead a portfolio of projects, subarea planning efforts, mentor other staff, assist in prioritizing projects as requested by elected and department leaders, and execute high profile and complex land use planning projects. You will develop land use policies and codes that respond to countywide and regional needs, conducting planning for urban and rural communities. You’ll lead projects that align land use, permitting, housing, and environmental goals with community and county priorities.

You’ll work closely with community members, colleagues, and department leaders to assess needs, analyze data, manage projects, and craft legislation. Our work is grounded in equity, guided by the King County Comprehensive Plan, and shaped by the communities we serve—especially historically underrepresented groups. We’re seeking a proven planner and project manager with experience navigating complex political environments and processes, and delivering effective plans, policies, and codes. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of how government services vary across urban and rural areas are essential.

This role involves some evening and weekend meetings, including public presentations. You’ll collaborate with DLS teams, staff across King County, and other agencies to support inclusive, strategic, and future-focused planning.

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The City of Duvall is excited to announce an incredible opportunity to help shape the future of our community and our Community and Economic Development Department! We are restructuring our Planning team to include a Principal Planner and looking for a dynamic, forward-thinking planning professional to lead and supervise a team.

As a key member of our small but important municipal department, you’ll have the chance to make a big impact. Our next Principal Planner will bring fresh ideas, guide innovative projects, and help create a vibrant, sustainable city for generations to come.
Key elements of the role include:

• Leading complex planning initiatives that shape land use, growth, and development.
• Collaborating with friendly and dedicated colleagues, passionate community members, and caring elected leaders.
• Driving creative solutions for housing, transportation, and environmental stewardship.

Come to Duvall where you will be inspired by our beautiful setting, our small-town charm, and a work environment where your talent, contributions, and ideas will be recognized. 
Benefits and Salary:  Salary for the Principal Planner position is $116,718-$143,555.  The City offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Dual insurance incentive (in place of participation in City-offered coverage)
• Generous paid vacation and sick leave
• Annual paid executive administrative leave
• City-funded life insurance policy
• Participation in the WA State Department of Retirement Services Pension and 457 plans
• Other voluntary benefits options

Under the general direction of the Community and Economic Development Director, the Principal Planner performs advanced professional and managerial planning work related to community development, redevelopment, long-range planning, and zoning. This position is responsible for leading major planning initiatives and serves as a technical expert on complex development proposals, strategic policy work, and long-range planning.

The Principal Planner exercises a high level of independent judgment in applying advanced planning principles, practices, and techniques. The position requires extensive collaboration with City management, Engineering, elected officials, community organizations, developers, consultants, and the public to ensure that development activities align with the City’s vision, Comprehensive Plan, and Land Use Regulations.

This position functions as a leader within the Community and Economic Development team, providing guidance to other planners and contributing to departmental leadership. The Principal Planner is expected to take ownership of critical projects and may perform duties of lower-level planning positions when needed to support department operations. A key responsibility of the Principal Planner is enhancing the city’s public realm by translating urban and placemaking principles into tangible projects that promote walkability, livability, and the Comprehensive Plan’s goals.

Applications will be reviewed as received.  The position is open and continuous until it is filled.  First round interviews are expected to occur at the beginning of March.

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The City of Black Diamond, WA is seeking a Community Development Director for this picturesque city of 7,435 residents located in the forested foothills between Mount Rainier and Seattle, known for blending a rich historic legacy with a forward-looking approach to municipal service. The City is excited to move forward with new leadership that includes a new mayor and five new council members that all took office in January 2026. The City is also developing a 1,200-acre Master Planned Community, one of the largest in the state. 

THE CITY OF BLACK DIAMOND

City of Black Diamond is a full-service city serving 7,435 residents across 7.2 square miles and operates with a 2025 budget of $61 million and a team of more than 56 FTEs across 7 departments. Black Diamond is a code city operating under a strong mayor form of government, with seven elected council members serving staggered four-year terms. The City is excited to move forward with new leadership, with Mayor John Adler and five new council members that all took office in January 2026. The City remains committed to balancing thoughtful growth, community character, and high-quality public services. 

THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR 

Reporting to the City Administrator, the Community Development Director directs and manages the operations of the Planning and Community Development Department, which includes current and long-range planning, building and construction inspection, permit processing, and development review. The Director manages fiscal and material resources, supervises staff, coordinates planning programs and projects, ensures effective plan review and building inspection services, communicates with residents and civic groups, and serves as a member of the City’s management team. The department operates with a staff of 8 FTEs and a 2026 budget of $1.6 million.

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