Blog

Department: Community Development & Planning
Classification: T-3 (I) or T-5 (II)
Representation: Bargaining Unit
FLSA: Non-Exempt

Nature of Work:

Planner I:

Planner I is the entry-level position of the planner series. Planner I assists the public by telephone, email and in person. Planner I performs general planner duties under direct supervision of the Community Development & Planning Director. General duties are to assist with processing land use applications and licenses relating to Community Development & Planning.

Planner II:

Planner II performs all the duties of a Planner I independently, with only general supervision from the Community Development Director. Planner II may be assigned to staff advisory boards that address land development issues in the Town, such as the Historic Preservation Review Board. Planner II explains ordinances, procedures and requirements to homeowners, developers and contractors pertaining to land development and permit requests and concerns.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide documents, permit applications and other general information as requested by the public, contractors, consultants, staff and other agencies.
• Explain the review and approval process for land use and building permit applications.
• Serve as Planner of the Day responding to walk-in customers’ questions as they relate to
  Community Planning, and returning voice mail and emails.
• Assist applicants with the permit application process.
• Assist with examining permit applications for accuracy and omissions.
• Assist with processing land use applications and permit approvals consistent with Department
  procedures.
• Prepare correspondence, public mailings, press releases, legal notices, memos and staff reports,
  as assigned.
• Complete data entry for the CDP database for Town permit tracking, land use attributes and
  other parcel information and maintain other records for CDP department.
• Assist the Community Development Director with historic preservation planning.
• Assist the Community Development Director with comprehensive planning.
• Assist the Community Development Director with code enforcement.

Geographical Information Systems:

• Use the Town’s various ArcGIS Web Maps to answer customer questions
• Assist with creating maps for all Town Departments

General Duties:

• Assist with webpage maintenance.
• Serve as a backup for other positions as directed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills & Qualifications Required:

Knowledge & Experience:

• Modern office practices, procedures and use of common office equipment.
• In-person and telephone customer service procedures
• Microsoft Office 365 (all applications), Adobe and other software for mapping & indexing records

Abilities:

• Demonstrate knowledge with MS Office Suite software, become proficient with job-related software applications and maintain written and computer-generated records.
• Communicate effectively orally and in writing. Demonstrate proficiency in the English language including composition, spelling, and grammar.
• Work accurately in a rapid-paced work environment; prioritize work, handle multiple tasks,
  accommodate interruptions and meet deadlines.
• Establish and maintain effective interpersonal relationships at all organizational levels and with the public.
• Understand and follow oral instructions and written policies, procedures, and instructions.
• Work independently within the Town’s policies and procedures with appropriate level of
  supervision.
• Attend work regularly and arrive to work on time prepared to serve the public.
• Interact well with co-workers.
• Maintain confidentiality, in accordance with Town policies and procedures.
• Physically perform essential job duties.

Education & Experience Required:

Planner I: 0-2 years of experience in planning with a 4-year degree in planning or a closely related field, or any combination of education and experience which would provide the applicant with the desired knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform the job. Preference given to those with previous experience working for a municipality.

Planner II: 2-5 years of experience in planning with at least 2 years as a Planner I. Preference given to those with previous experience working for a municipality.

Working Conditions:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk and climb stairs, to use hands to operate, finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls, to reach with hands and arms, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

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.

Supervision Received & Exercised:

Planner I receives supervision from the Director of Community Development. This position has no
supervisory responsibilities.

Planner II receives supervision from the Director of Community Development. This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Working Location & Hours:

Location: Town Hall Business Office, 60 Second Street
Work Period: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday; occasional overtime may be necessary.

Miscellaneous:

The duties listed above reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of the job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility. It should not be considered an all-inclusive list of work duties. Individuals may be required to perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods, or otherwise to balance the workload.

Notices:

• Job-related tests might be required for employment consideration.
• The Town of Friday Harbor will utilize the first 9 months of employment as an extension of the selection process.
• The Town will request a background check as a component of the selection process.
• The Town of Friday Harbor is an equal opportunity employer and assures equal employment regardless of race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, marital status, or presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability.
• Verification of identity and United States work authorization must be completed before employment commences as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act.
• The Town of Friday Harbor has a no smoking policy in all Town facilities and Town vehicles.
• As a condition of employment, employees are required to sign a drug-free workplace agreement.
• This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Salary: $127,009.20 – $150,974.04 (Annually DOQ)
Address: 109 SW 1st Street, Battle Ground, WA 98604
First Review: October 8, 2023

Learn more about this position and apply today at GMP Consultants website.

Job Description:

The City of Battle Ground, WA is seeking a Community Development Director for this vibrant community of 21,780 tucked in the foothills of the rugged Cascade Mountains in southwest Washington. As the commercial and social hub for the larger north Clark County area, Battle Ground is known for offering a strong sense of community and a country living alternative within reach of the larger Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area.

Battle Ground is a full-service city that operates under a Council-Manager form of government with a total budget of $69.5 million and a team of 96 FTEs. The Community Development Department consists of a team of 10.5 FTEs across two primary divisions: Planning and Building. The Planning and Building divisions operate with a budget of $1.1 million and $2.3 million, respectively.

Resposibilities:

Under the direction of the City Manager, the Community Development Director plans, organizes and directs the activities of the Community Development Department, including long-range and comprehensive planning, development review and permitting, code enforcement, building services, and developer support activities.

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-managed and fiscally sound organization and work to create new strategic opportunities for the City of Battle Ground. Located in the scenic foothills of the Cascade Mountains, the city is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a high quality of life and access to an abundance of outdoor recreation activities. The city benefits from an experienced City Manager and team of Department Directors. The next Community Development Director will be in a leadership position to help create a new vision and plan for community and economic development.

8 Step Hourly Wage Schedule – $30.70 – $38.23
Employer Pays 100% Healthcare – Generous PTO
Washington State Department of Retirement
Position Is Open Until Filled – First Review of Resumes – Sept. 15, 2023

To Apply: Submit a Resume, Application and Responses to the Supplemental Questionnaire to humanresources@ci.lacenter.wa.us

Position Summary:

The Associate Planner is given broad responsibility for managing land use projects, providing staff support to the Planning Commission, supporting comprehensive plan and code updates, ensuring land use permit compliance with City codes, plans and policies, providing recommendations on planning issues, presenting recommendations on land use permits to the Community Development Director, Planning Commission, City Council and Hearing Examiner, responding to planning inquiries from the public and appointed/elected officials, supporting code enforcement and special projects, and other related duties as assigned.

This employee works closely with the other administrative staff in greeting customers, in person or by phone, who seek information and services from the City of La Center.

Assigned to the Community Development Department, this employee reports to the Community Development Director.

The workweek for the Associate Planner is Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. When supporting at Planning Commission or City Council meetings, the employee may be required to work up to two evenings a month. The employee may receive overtime or comp time for the hours spent attending Planning Commission or City Council meetings. City of La Center employees are responsible for demonstrating the values as stated in the City’s Guiding Principles, working cooperatively and collaboratively with colleagues, andndelivering services to customers with a high degree of professionalism.

This position is represented by the Teamsters Local 58 (union).

Essential Job Duties/Primary Job Duties:

• Respond to public inquiries by phone, email and over-the counter with information on planning projects, processes, codes and policies.
• Communicate verbally and in writing complex information to visitors, internal customers, representatives from regulatory agencies, and business representatives.
• Evaluate a variety of land use applications including but not limited to site plan reviews, plats, variance requests, and similar for compliance with applicable City Codes.
• Evaluate building permit applications for completeness and for compliance with
  applicable setbacks.
• Establish addresses for new buildings within the City in coordination with the Postal Service and County.
• Maintain the City’s records and files specific to land use, permits, and capital/special projects in accordance with records retention regulations and Public Disclosure laws Ensure legal and public notice deadlines and requirements are met for land use permits and public meetings.
• Prepare and present reports on occasion to the City Council, Planning Commission, Hearing Examiner, community groups, and private organizations regarding planning issues or projects.
• Review and issue decisions on Type I and Type II land use applications; prepare written documentation and review Type III and Type IV land use applications for direction and approval of the Planner/Consultant.
• Publish the Planning Commission agenda and minutes, attend Planning Commission meetings, operate the recording equipment, support the Planning Commission Chairperson in maintaining the flow of parliamentary procedures.
• Review complex studies related to land use, environmental impacts, transportation, shoreline, economic development, environment, or historic preservation.
• Inform appointed and elected officials on planning procedures and policies, comprehensive or sub-area plans, ordinances, guidelines, development criteria, or amendments.
• Assist with the enforcement of local codes and ordinances. Take in code enforcement requests, inputting and tracking in the iWorQ system, communicating to the inspector to check sites, and mailing letters of violation.
• Schedule appointments and meetings at the request of directors and applicants.
• Use asset management and work order software to document requests for services such as Public Works requests.
• Act as a back-up to receive and process payments for building permits, plan review, and land use applications and input building permit applications and inspection requests into tracking software.
• Review business license applications through the Department of Labor website.
• Adhere to the City’s anti-discrimination, harassment, and retaliation policies, and comply with the City’s commitment to be inclusive of racial, cultural, gender, religious, and ethnic differences.
• The job duties and tasks outlined above are not all-inclusive.

Minimum Qualifications/Required Skills:

• High School graduate or GED
• Bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field such as geography, economics, political science or environmental studies, or any combination of experience and education which provides the applicant with desired skills, knowledge and ability required to perform the job.
• Two (2) years of public or private planning experience. Master’s degree may substitute for one year.
• Knowledge of principles, practices, regulations, and techniques in the field of municipal land use planning.
• Knowledge of state and federal planning statutes and general familiarity with legal foundations of planning.
• Knowledge of municipal administration, ordinances, statutes and other legal processes.
• Knowledge of research methods and ability to compile and analyze original data.
• Knowledge of public participation techniques and best practices.
• Must be highly proficient in using Microsoft Suites, including Word, Excel, Outlook, Publisher, PowerPoint.
• Working skills and abilities in remote/virtual meeting and collaboration tools.
• Knowledge of economics, finance, and sociology as applied to city planning, zoning, code enforcement, and community development.
• Basic knowledge of cartography, graphic design and the use of Geographic Information Systems.
• Ability to write clear and concise reports and plans.
• Ability to organize and participate in public involvement processes and to communicate ideas to the public effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with public officials, other city staff, consultants, the City Council, Planning Commission, Hearing Examiner, the development community, and citizens.
• Ability to work on many projects at the same time in a dynamic and rapidly growing community.
• Must satisfactorily complete a pre-employment reference check, which includes a credit check.

Work Environment:

• Sit at a desk for extended periods.
• Bend to retrieve documents from lower drawers in filing cabinets or on top of
  cabinets; frequently use wrists and arms when entering data into a computer.
• Travel (walk or drive a vehicle) short distances.
• Professionally manage disruptive, upset, or disgruntled customers. Find a resolution to their concerns and provide a wide range of resources the customer may want to consider.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position. This job classification is subject to change as the needs and requirements of the job change.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The City of La Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified employees will be considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, ancestry, sensory, mental or physical disability or veteran status, or any non-job related factor
as defined by law. Any person requiring special accommodations should advise the City via email of their needs by the application closing date.

Supplemental Questionnaire:

1. Describe your experience providing customer service that required you to explain very complex policies or procedures to customers. Please give an example of the type of policy or practice you were responsible for explaining to the customer.
2. What experience or knowledge do you have in using and understanding municipal code? Please describe in detail.
3. What experience or knowledge do you have working with Washington’s Public Records Act or a similar regulation that required your employer to maintain written records and documents for an extended time?
4. Are you able to attend up to two evening meetings per month? Planning Commission meetings take place on the second Tuesday of every month during evenings beginning at 6:30, and City Council meetings take place on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month beginning at 6:30. The duration of the session is dependent on the agenda.

Put your name and contact information on each document submitted in response to the Supplemental Questionnaire.

Don’t forget to include your standard resume that identifies your employment and education history.

Salary: $107,283 – $144,829 Annually DOQ
Salary Grade: 127
Department/Site: Public Works-Engineering FLSA: Exempt
Evaluated by: Mark A. Freiberger, PE
First Review: October 1, 2023 – Open Until Filled

Learn more about this position and apply today by clicking here.

Job Description:

The City of Sedro-Woolley, WA is seeking a Community Development Director for this growing community of 12,900 located on the western edge of the majestic Cascade Mountain Range halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, Canada. Incorporated in 1898, The City of Sedro-Woolley is a non-charter code city that operates under a Mayor-Council form of government with a budget of $39.9 million and 85 FTEs.

The Community Development Director is an integral part of the Sedro-Woolley leadership team overseeing the City of Sedro-Woolley Planning and Building Department. Under the general direction of the City Administrator, the Community Development Director assumes full leadership and management responsibility for Planning and Building Department services and activities, including current and long-range planning, building inspection, code compliance, plan review, permit processing and community outreach. The Department operates with a 2023 budget of $661,000 and includes the Permit Technician, Building Inspector/Plans Examiner, and the Assistant Planner.

This position also serves as the City’s Building Official, (Building Official Certification not required), and as such ensures the enforcement of building and land development codes, coordinates code enforcement in partnership with the Police Department, performs professional research and analysis of major development projects, policies, and legislation affecting land use management and environmental programs.

Why Apply?

The Community Development Director will have the opportunity to work with an energetic and engaged team of employees in a growing city full of potential. The City will be conducting the periodic update of its comprehensive plan over the next two years and the person in this role will have the opportunity to

play a key role in helping to craft the future of Sedro-Woolley. One of the City’s key goals for the 2023-28 time period is to foster a stronger economy.

The City of Sedro-Woolley is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Salary: $64,092.00 – $86,208.00 Annually
Location: Multiple Locations – Western Washington, WA
Job Type: Full Time – Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2023-SEA4842-09572
Department: Dept. of Ecology
Division: Shorelands and Environmental Assistance
Opening Date: 08/22/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: At the high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Learn more about this position at the Department of Ecology’s Government Jobs page.

Job Description:

The Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) program within the Department of Ecology is looking to fill a Regional Shoreline Compliance/Enforcement Specialist (Environmental Specialist 4) position. This position can be located in any one of the following offices: 

Southwest Region Office (SWRO) in Lacey, WA.

Northwest Region Office (NWRO) in Shoreline, WA. 

Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

Please Note: If the final location of this position is determined to be in our Northwest Region Office (NWRO) in Shoreline, WA. there will be an additional 5% pay increase due to its location in King County. In this instance, the salary range will be $5,608 – $7,543 per month. 

In this position, you will support both the Northwest and Southwest Regions on shoreline compliance and enforcement. You will work to improve the implementation of local Shoreline Master Programs (SMPs) under the Shoreline Management Act (SMA). You will be part of a small team that is working in collaboration with local governments to build a new SMA monitoring and adaptive management program and to expand state capacity to enforce the SMA. You will build people skills, analyze land use decisions to evaluate program effectiveness, respond to SMA violations, and communicate complex permitting information to diverse audiences.  You will help ensure shoreline development achieves no net loss of ecological functions and advances the goals of the Shoreline Management Act. 

Agency Mission: The mission of the Department of Ecology is to protect, preserve, and enhance Washington’s environment for current and future generations.

Program Mission: The mission of the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program is to create community conservation partnerships to protect and restore our shorelands, wetlands, and floodplains.

Tele-Work options for This Position: 

This position is not required to work in the office but will have field work associated with meeting and collaborating with local governments and investigating shoreline violations. 

Applicants with questions about position location options, telework, and flexible or compressed schedules are encouraged to reach out to the contact person listed below in “other information.” Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline: This position will remain open until filled, we will review applications on September 5, 2023. In order to be considered, please submit an application on or before September 4, 2023. If your application isn’t received by this date, it may not be considered. The agency reserves the right to make a Hire at any time after the initial screening date.

Pay Range: $33.43 – $42.40 per hour (CTP Pay Plan C43 Step 1-13)
Hiring Range: $33.43 – $ 35.48 per hour (CTP Pay Plan C43 Step 1-4 DOQ)
Job Closing Date: September 14, 2023

Applications will be reviewed each week: 8/24/23, 8/31/23, 9/7/23, and 9/14/23.
*If a qualified candidate is selected, the posting will be closed prior to September 14, 2023*

Learn more and apply today at Yakima County’s Website.

Job Description:

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 Yakima County Public Services Department Clerical, Technical & Professional Employees Group Bargaining Unit Position.

First Review: September 17, 2023. Open until filled.
Salary: $97,476 – $131,590 annually DOQ
Consultant: Kate Hansen

Learn more about this position and apply here if you are a GMP consultant. If not, learn more and apply at Cirty of Sedro Woolley’s website.

About the City of Sedro-Woodley:

The City of Sedro-Woolley, WA is seeking an Assistant City Engineer for this growing community of 2,900 located on the western edge of the Majestic Cascade Mountain Range halfway between Seattle, and Vancouver, Canada. Incorporated in 1898, The City of Sedro-Woolley is a non-charter code city that operates under a Mayor-Council form of government with a budget of $39.9 million and 85 FTEs.

Job Description:

Under the direction of the Public Works Director or City Engineer, the Assistant City Engineer provides engineering design and support services on a variety of City infrastructure projects, long-range infrastructure plans, and long-range programs, Stormwater Permit compliance, street maintenance planning, as well as engineering review assistance on private developments and utility installations.

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities will involve a full spectrum of municipal infrastructure including streets, wastewater collection and pumping systems, wastewater treatment plant upgrades, and storm water detention, drainage, and conveyance systems.

Why Apply?

Join a highly experienced team in Sedro-Woolley to help the community take its next steps forward. This position offers exciting opportunities to support the City’s capital program, including an upcoming Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade. The new Assistant City Engineer will have the opportunity to design and project manage city road, utility, and stormwater projects. There are also excellent opportunities for advancement with near term retirements of the City Engineer and Director.

More Information:

GMP Consultants is assisting the City of Sedro-Woolley with this search. Learn more at gmphr.com. The City of Sedro-Woolley is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is September 17, 2023. Open until filled.

Salary: $78,120.00 – $105,096.00
Location: Thurston County – Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time – Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2023-SEA5061-09917
Department: Dept. of Ecology
Division: Shorelands and Environmental Assistance
Opening Date: 08/07/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step.

Learn more about this position and apply today at the Department of Ecology’s Government Jobs page.

Job Description:

The Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) program within the Department of Ecology is looking to fill a Clean Energy Programmatic EIS Principal Planner (Environmental Planner 5) position. This position will be located in our Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA. Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

Washington State recently passed new legislation expanding Ecology’s role in siting clean energy in our state. This work is required as part of Governor-requested House Bill 1216 which is an integral component of Washington State’s transition to a full decarbonized energy sector. This position will help support that goal as the lead planner for completing Programmatic Review of Clean Energy facilities, specifically Utility-Scale Solar Energy projects, Utility-Scale Onshore Wind Energy projects, and Green Electrolytic and Renewable Hydrogen projects. 

The Washington Legislature has entrusted us to address the challenging and complex environmental issues affecting Washington. As the state’s lead agency on climate change, we carry out policies that help slow the causes of climate change and support communities already impacted by its effects.
 
Tele-Work Options for This Position: 

This position will be eligible for tele-work schedule up to one or two days per week. Applicants with questions about tele-work, and flexible or compressed schedules are encouraged to reach out to the contact person listed below in “other information.” Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. 

Application Timeline: 

This position will remain open until filled, we will review applications on August 21, 2023. In order to be considered, please submit an application on or before August 20, 2023. If your application isn’t received by this date, it may not be considered. The agency reserves the right to make a Hire any time after the initial screening date.

Department: Community Development
Reports to: Community Development Director
Salary Range: $7,244/month to $10,649/month, Starting Salary: DOQ, DOE
Pay Grade: 9 -Full-Time; FLSA Exempt; Benefits Apply

Learn more about this position and apply today at Walla Walla County’s website.

Job Summary:

Under the direction of the Director, this position plans, organizes, and manages day-to-day functions of the planning and code compliance sections, and serves as the Director’s most senior advisor. Responsible to provide efficient, effective, impartial, and timely planning services county-wide. Supports Director in overall administration and operation of the Community Development Department. This is an administrative and professional planning position, providing policy guidance and recommendations to the Director, Planning Commission, Hearing Examiner, and the Board of County Commissioners in the development, modification, and implementation of comprehensive plans, development regulations, and environmental review and planning. Work involves contact with federal and state agencies, County and city departments, advisory committees, public officials, land development professionals, and the general public.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervises and evaluates the planning and code compliance employees.

Essential Job Functions:

• Acts as, or on behalf of, the Director in their absence.
• Provides complex technical and administrative planning support to the Director.
• Reviews and processes the land use applications and plans for compliance with state and local
  regulations including permit review and process, staff report preparation, administration of review,
  public hearing processes, and appeals.
• Reviews and approves a variety of administrative planning and code enforcement decisions as
  assigned by the Director.
• Assists Department staff as needed to ensure timely and accurate performance of work.
• Assists in developing and implementing policies and procedures for Department.
• Supports the Director in supervising department staff, either directly or indirectly.
• Prepares and presents reports on department activities.
• Assists in the recruitment, employment, evaluation, and release of staff and contract personnel.
• Responds to and resolves difficult, sensitive customer inquiries and complaints.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with employees, public officials, other
  professionals, the media, and the general public.
• Interprets and applies laws and development regulations as may be required.
• Analyzes, recommends, and implements policies, procedures, standards, and ordinances to promote
  efficient and effective operation of assigned functions.

Example of Duties:

• Assist in hiring consultants and managing contracts for a variety of professional services.
• Prepare or assist with departmental reports and presentations, assists in Department budget.
• Evaluate planning-related legislation and applicability to Department projects.
• Act as a liaison with other County departments, local agencies, and state agencies for planning
• and code compliance topics.
• Researches and prepares a variety of written documents.
• Oversee or manage projects through to completion and/or implementation.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Tools & Equipment Used:

Various types of materials and equipment are used: local, county, state, and federal codes, digital and paper records, building and area maps, statistical and legal documents and information, construction documents and specifications, professional literature, architectural, mass communications, audiovisual aids, graphics, telecommunications, computer, permit tracking software, and GIS.

Working Environment/Physical Abilities:

The working environment includes activities in multiple department office venues and also attendance at night meetings. Physical abilities required for this position are ones typically related to office operations and conducting site reviews. Occasional travel is required and contact with citizens that may become hostile at times.

Knowledge & Abilities:

Considerable knowledge and experience with the principles, practices, and techniques of
Washington State planning and planning law, land use concepts.

• Knowledge of code enforcement principles and procedures.
• Knowledge of supervisory and administrative principles.
• Ability to motivate and lead employees, delegate effectively and encourage decision-making;
  anticipate, respond to, and manage change.
• Strong ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing, including the editing,
  oversight or preparation of technical reports, and the presentation of information to
  government entities, committees, decision-makers, and the general public.
• Strong problem-solving and negotiation skills.
• Ability to exercise sound and independent judgment within general policy guidelines.
• Ability to understand and manage high-profile, sensitive, or controversial political situations.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work with multiple priorities and challenging timelines.
• Knowledge of and proficiency with computer software programs, GIS, website design and
  management, particularly word processing & data management.
• Ability to oversees or manage projects through to completion and/or implementation.

Education & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree, in public administration, urban or regional planning, or related field is required; and a minimum of five (5) years of experience in a local planning organization, preferably within Washington State, utilizing land use controls and comprehensive plans; two (2) years of supervisory or managerial experience; and substantial exposure to the Washington State Growth Management Act.

Licenses & Other Requirements:

Must have a valid Drivers’ License. Must successfully pass a background check and a driving record check. AICP certification is desired.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer:

All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, nationality, origin, age, political affiliation, disability status or any other non-merit factor. Women,
disabled persons, members of ethnic minority and other under-represented groups are
encouraged to apply.

Applications:

• FILING OF APPLICATION: Applications must be completed in accordance with the directions on the front of the announcement. Applicants are responsible for the truth of all statements. Misrepresentations, incomplete or inaccurate entries may be the cause for application rejection, removal from the employment list or discharge from County service. A background investigation will be conducted along with reference and former employer checks, driving record, and criminal history if applicable to requirements of the job. Applications must be received or postmarked by the last date for filing applications.
• CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Applicants are responsible for notifying the hiring department of any change of address or telephone number.
• NOTIFICATION: Unsuccessful candidates will be notified by mail as soon as feasible following the final selection decision.

Employment:

Eligibility List: Walla Walla County reserves the right to establish an eligibility list to fill any vacancies that may occur in the posted position for a period up to twelve (12) months.

NOTE: The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice. Walla Walla County is committed to a drug, alcohol, and smoke free environment.

*** THIS POSITION DESCRIPTION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT FOR EMPLOYMENT ***

Pay Range: $30.10 – $38.17 per hour (CTP Pay Plan C41 Step 1-13)
Hiring Range: $30.10 – $31.94 per hour (CTP Pay Plan C41 Step 1-4 DOQ)
Job Closing Date: August 27, 2023
Applications Reviewed Each Week: 7/31/23, 8/7/23, 8/14/23, 8/21/23, and 8/29/23.
*If a qualified candidate is selected, the posting will be closed prior to August 27, 2023*

Learn more about this position and apply today at Yakima County’s website.

Job Description:

There is one Planner II 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 Include:

• 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.