Long Range Planner III (PPM III)

The Department of Local Services - Director’s Office is looking for one (1) full-time Career Service and one (1) full-time Term-Limited Temporary (TLT) seasoned planners to support long‑range land use policy, code amendment initiatives, comprehensive planning, and subarea planning projects that shape the future of King County. The Long Range Planner will work under the supervision of the Long Range Planning Manager. As a Long Range Planner, you will help lead a portfolio of projects, code writing 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. Commitment to Equity, Racial and Social Justice The Department of Local Services is deeply dedicated to fostering equity, racial and social justice in every aspect of our work. Our pledge is to cultivate, embrace, and celebrate the distinct experiences, viewpoints, and perspectives of our people, partners, and the communities we serve. Through this work, we dismantle systemic barriers, address inequities, and actively confront prejudices and biases. We acknowledge this journey is ongoing, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to create a positive impact for our employees and communities alike. Applying equity, racial and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work. You Will Thrive in This Position If You are a creative problem solver who likes to collaborate across disciplines to achieve the best outcomes for the environment and the communities we serve. You are skilled at presenting policy, science, and customer service considerations to leadership and decision‑makers. You are customer focused and committed to public service. You are energized by finding solutions to potentially conflicting policy and community interests. You are comfortable charting a path forward in the face of ambiguity. You have strong attention to detail and legislative experience. Research, Writing & Policy Development Prepare clear, accurate, and logically sound written materials, including legislative materials for consideration by elected leaders. Conduct research and analysis using demographic, financial, and geographic data to inform planning and policy decisions. Collaborate with department staff within DLS and across the County to draft and review legislation, policies, and reports. Assist in resolving legal issues related to proposed legislation, in partnership with the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the King County Executive’s Office, and King County Council staff. Ensure consistency between King County Comprehensive Plan policies and related regulations, and support updates to the Comprehensive Plan as needed. Ongoing Coordination & Support Stay informed on land use trends, activities, legislation, and other key issues affecting unincorporated areas. Participate in interdepartmental and interjurisdictional teams, as well as community outreach efforts. Work cooperatively with colleagues and external partners to address project‑related challenges. Professionalism & Customer Service Manage individual workload effectively, adapting to shifting priorities while meeting deadlines. Demonstrate a strong commitment to customer service and uphold the reputation of King County and the department. Fulfill commitments to customers and stakeholders with integrity and respond promptly and professionally to inquiries from county residents. Perform other duties as assigned. Values (ACTIVATE) A ccountable C ollaborative T imely I mpactful V alue Employees A ccessible T rusted E quitable Minimum Education & Core Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in planning, urban studies, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Five years or more of professional experience in long‑range land use planning, including crafting policies and guiding government actions to address community development needs and align with countywide goals and service delivery practices. Demonstrated practical understanding of development permitting processes, economics, as well as best practices for zoning code standards, design guidelines, and plan policies that support community and government goals. Knowledge of Washington’s planning framework, including the Growth Management Act, Shorelines Act, and State Environmental Policy Act. Policy, Code, and Legislative Experience Experience drafting legislation, analyzing supporting data, crafting reports and communication materials, and delivering presentations to elected officials. Experience contributing to legislative processes, including analysis and preparation of supporting documents for decision‑makers. Understanding of land use law, with the ability to identify issues, assess risks, and seek appropriate legal guidance when needed. Community Engagement & Equity Demonstrated experience leading inclusive outreach and engagement strategies, particularly with Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color, as well as other historically underrepresented groups. Proven ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans. Skilled in building partnerships and working across interests, establishing strong working relationships with internal and external parties. Project & Communication Skills Experience managing complex projects using project management best practices to meet deadlines and deliver high‑quality outcomes. Strong communication skills, including the ability to listen actively, provide constructive feedback, negotiate outcomes, and deliver concise, effective oral presentations. Advanced presentation experience, including speaking to legislative bodies, jurisdictional partners, and the public. Outstanding writing skills, both technical and non‑technical, with the ability to tailor content for a wide range of audiences. Technical Proficiency Proficient in Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and other common desktop tools used to support planning and policy work. Experience with GIS, Adobe InDesign strongly preferred. Desired Qualifications Master’s of professional degree in public administration, urban/regional planning, architecture, land use law or a related field. Experience in drafting or implementing green building policies. Experience with King County, Washington State, and Federal code promulgation process or similar. Experience in developing and implementing complex communication strategies. Recruitment Information This recruitment will be open until filled. The first review of applications will take place the week of 8/3/2026, and applicants that pass the initial screening will be invited for an interview the following week. Candidate Eligibility This position is open to all qualified applicants. Application Requirements A completed King County Application, a resume, and a cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your background and describing how you meet or exceed the required qualifications, knowledge, skills, and experience listed in this job announcement are also required. Selection Process Applicants will be screened for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. Minimum qualifications and answers to supplemental questions must be demonstrated in your application materials. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more interviews. Reference checks and file reviews will be conducted. Interview Tips STAR‑LA method: see star-la_interview_method.pdf for guidance. Work Schedule The work week is normally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but may at times require work on the weekends. This position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not eligible for overtime pay. Emergency Designation Status This position has been designated as Non‑Mission Critical in an Emergency Employees: Employees who staff county functions or services that may be delayed, suspended, or diverted in an emergency while essential functions are prioritized. Unless otherwise directed by the County Executive, department director or agency head, all employees, regardless of designation, are expected to report to work or request leave during an emergency or inclement weather. Union Membership

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Teleworking Requirement We will work in the office at least three days a week to foster connection and responsiveness, arrive prepared and on time, and structure meetings with clear goals and next steps. Work Location Employees will have access to shared workspaces at various King County facilities. The employee will report to work at King Street Center (201 S. Jackson, Seattle, WA 98104). Residence Requirement Employees must reside in Washington State and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements. Equipment and Workspace Employees will be provided with a County issued laptop and must maintain a workspace with an internet connection where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours. Tools and Resources King County has a robust collection of tools and resources to support working remotely. The individual selected for this opportunity will be joining an innovative and progressive team that is redefining how we work in a hybrid environment. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation. Contact Information If you have any questions regarding this recruitment, please contact Janice Antonio, HR Analyst, by email at View email address on click.appcast.io, or by phone at View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr King-County,-W