Under the direction of the assigned supervisor the incumbent performs professional level planning functions to administer and coordinate complex work programs. The incumbent helps manage special projects, code development and review, and updates to the County's Comprehensive Plan and development regulations. The selected candidate will coordinate across functional areas of the planning process and must be highly knowledgeable about principles, practices, and techniques of planning; related state and federal laws, growth management, ordinances, rules and regulations; implementation of zoning and other ordinances; application of land use, design standards, economic development, affordable housing, environmental review, and/or social concepts to the planning process. The incumbent performs research and analysis to support project development and implementation.

Work is performed at a project lead level, with a high degree of independence. Work assignments are performed with general instruction and require considerable independence in the selection of courses of action and resolution of complex or unique problems within the framework of department policies and procedures. Performance is measured more by outcomes than by outputs or tasks. Activities may include projects with a high degree of sensitivity or controversy, interpretations of law, decision-making under ambiguous circumstances, and ongoing relationships with other local governments, tribes, and state or federal agencies.

Depending on experience and background, candidates will be brought on as a Junior Planner ($74,339.20 - $82,056.00) or a Senior Planner ($84,115.20 - $95,180.80). A Junior Planner would meet the minimum qualifications with a demonstrated work history of moderately complex professional planning. A Senior Planner would have more advanced professional planning experience of high complexity and variety, often as a lead or with greater independence and judgment.

Hybrid/remote work options and flexible work schedule may be available as approved by Manager.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR PERFORMANCE OF THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor Degree in Planning or closely related field from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education AND four years of professional level planning related to community development, urban or regional planning is required; OR
• An equivalent combination of experience and education which provides the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge, and ability required to perform the work.

PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, OR QUALIFICATIONS:

• Three years of professional experience in long-range planning, comprehensive planning, housing, and/or land use.
• Experience with policy or code development and presenting complex or controversial issues to planning commissions, elected officials, or community groups.
• Experience with the Washington State Growth Management Act and Shoreline Management Act.
• AICP Certification.

Required Licenses, Certificates, Examinations/Tests and Other Requirements (Exclude if none required)

The incumbent is responsible for obtaining and maintaining all the following required licenses, certifications and other requirements.

Prior to employment, the successful candidate must:

• Submit official transcripts from an accredited college or university or business school, if education is being used to meet the minimum qualifications.
• Pass all job-related examinations/tests necessary to demonstrate required knowledge, skills and abilities, as determined by the hiring authority at time of job posting.