Long Range Planner III (PPM III)

Long Range Planner

The Department of Local Services - Director's Office is looking for a seasoned planner 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.

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; and
• You have strong attention to detail and legislative experience.

Our 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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Applicants who pass the initial screening will be invited for a virtual interview in the week of June 8, 2026 and final interviews will be in-person on the week of June 15, 2026.

This recruitment will be used to fill one (1) career service position and to create an eligibility pool to fill additional vacancies in the same classification that may occur within the next six months.

This position is open to all qualified applicants.

A completed King County Application is required. A resume and 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 is also required.

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.

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.

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.

King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO