Senior Regional Government Relations Advisor and Liaison (SA2)

Overview Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking a skilled and collaborative Senior Regional Government Relations Advisor and Liaison to serve as a key member of its Government Relations and Legislative Affairs division. This position plays a central role in building and maintaining strategic partnerships with regional governments, elected officials, and intergovernmental bodies across the Puget Sound area. The work directly supports SPU's mission across all lines of business – water, drainage, wastewater, and solid waste – and involves high‑visibility projects with significant financial, political, and operational importance to the City of Seattle and its customers. Responsibilities Serve as SPU's primary liaison to King County, regional cities, the Port of Seattle, regional groups, and other external government partners, including staff and elected officials; coordinate with the Office of Intergovernmental Relations. Staff Seattle City Council members on the King County Regional Water Quality Committee and represent the City in its relations with the King County Flood Control District, regional salmon recovery committees, and provide staff support for the Regional Water Supply Forum. Lead and support negotiations and development of intergovernmental agreements including franchise agreements, MOAs/MOUs, and interlocal agreements, in coordination with SPU subject matter experts and the City Attorney's Office. Support SPU technical and engineering staff with problem solving and relationships related to infrastructure and capital projects with King County, City of Bellevue, City of Carnation, and other jurisdictions. Co‑lead the City Salmon Team with Seattle City Light on interdepartmental salmon recovery work in the Cedar Sammamish/Lake Washington Basin and Green Duwamish Watershed. Advocate for Seattle capital funding from the King County Flood Control District. Prepare briefings, memos, speaking points, and correspondence for the General Manager, Mayor's Office, City Council, and external partners. Serve as a key member of SPU's Government Relations and Legislative Affairs division and as an Emergency Operations liaison. Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Public Policy, Urban & Regional Planning, Environmental Studies, Law (JD), Communications, Business Administration, or a related field. Five (5) years of professional experience in government relations, intergovernmental affairs, public policy, project management, negotiations, or a closely related field. If applicant does not possess a bachelor's degree, may substitute seven (7) years of relevant professional experience in lieu of the degree requirement, provided the experience demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this position. Desired Qualifications Demonstrated experience in intergovernmental relations, public policy, or government affairs in a regional or multi‑jurisdictional context. Experience staffing elected officials or senior leadership and preparing high‑quality written materials including briefings, memos, and policy summaries. Familiarity with utility operations (water, wastewater, stormwater, or solid waste) and related regulatory and infrastructure environments. Experience leading or participating in negotiations involving intergovernmental agreements, contracts, or partnerships. Knowledge of Puget Sound regional governance structures, including King County, regional cities, and salmon recovery frameworks. Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional teams with diverse technical, legal, and policy expertise toward shared outcomes. Strong facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and work effectively at all organizational levels. Well‑developed written communication skills with experience preparing speaking points, briefings, reports, correspondence, and legal agreements. Workplace Schedule / Environment Hybrid schedule with remote work flexibility (minimum 3 days/week in‑office). Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor. Work is performed both in an office environment and in field or public settings. Collaborative, inclusive team environment. Salary Hourly: $56.57 – $84.88. Annual: $118,118.16 – $177,229.44. Benefits The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long‑term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. Equal Employment Opportunity The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. #J-18808-Ljbffr