Salary: $29.44 – $46.01 Hourly
Location: Bellingham, WA 98226
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: P300/320 0823
Department: Planning & Development Services
Opening Date: 08/10/2023
Closing Date: 11/5/2023 11:59 PM Pacific

Learn more about this position and apply today at Whatcom County Government Jobs page.

Job Description:

The Whatcom County Planning and Development Services Department is seeking to fill the position of a Wetlands and Ecology Planner I or II to work in the Natural Resources Division.  

The ideal candidate will have an ecology background and experience in evaluation of wetland delineations, wetland and stream reports, site plans, maps, surveys, and other documents to determine their accuracy in describing existing field conditions. Emphasis will be placed on review of consultant reports, rating forms, impact analysis, compensatory mitigation proposals, and site plans. This position works directly with the public, staff from various County departments, State and tribal natural resource regulatory agencies, local governments and advisory committees. This position works to administer and review development permits in compliance with the Whatcom County’s Growth Management Act, Critical Areas Ordinance and Shoreline Management Plan.

Essential Duties:

  • Review development applications and proposals ensuring development complies with the County’s Critical Areas Regulations and/or other applicable land use and environmental regulations.  Writing staff reports and decisions. Review will include identification of wetlands and habitat conservations areas, wetland delineation verification and reviewing natural resources mitigation plans.
  • Preparing staff reports and coordinating internal and external regulatory reviews for land use applications and permits.
  • Interfacing with the public, state, tribal and federal resource agencies, and other land use professionals.
  • Performs public outreach, develops and delivers educational programs to support the goals of the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan.

Qualifications:

Planner I: Requires a bachelor’s degree in planning, or a related field, (such as environmental science, ecology, wildlife) AND one year of increasingly responsible, paid, professional experience.

Planner II: Requires a bachelor’s degree in planning, or a related field, (such as environmental science, ecology, wildlife) AND three years of increasingly responsible, paid, professional experience INCLUDING at least 2 years of professional experience in area of assignment with in the last 5 years.

  • A Master’s degree in a related field can be substituted for up to six months of experience.
  • Experience with permit tracking software, presentation software, geographical positioning systems and geographic information systems is preferred.
  • Knowledge of ecological systems similar to Whatcom County is preferred.
  • Knowledge of and experience working with local and state governments and agencies is preferred.
  • Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) certification desired but not required. 

Successful Candidates Will Also Possess:

  • Restoration ecology, understanding of local and state regulatory programs.
  • Experience with wetland and stream delineation and typing methodology.
  • Knowledge of local flora and regional wetland regulations.
  • Planning knowledge, scientific principles of natural resource issues relevant in Whatcom County (wetlands, lakes, streams, coastal habitats and processes, native vegetations and/or wildlife habitats).
  • Excellent technical writing skills and experience.
  • Ability to convey technical information to the public (both applicant/developers and concerned citizens), government agencies and environmental consultants.
  • Excellent written, verbal communication and organizational skills.
  • Strong time and project management skills, that can track and communicate details in a high pace work environment.
  • Ability to walk on uneven terrain for long periods of time. 

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

Supplemental Information:

Salary Range – Planner I:  MCBA – Range 160.0:  $29.44 – $42.46 per hour | Planner II: MCBA – Range 180.0:  $31.99 – $46.01 per hour

Hiring rate depends on qualifications.  This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to negotiated Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).  2024 COLA approved for additional 4% increase!  
The Planning and Development Services Department seeks team members who are passionate about community, innovation, and public service.  The County offers competitive compensation, great benefits, and an amazing quality of life.

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