Term Limited/Out of Class Planning & Development Specialist Sr.

This opportunity is open to be either an Out of Class or Term Limited, and is anticipated to last through December 31, 2026.

Through the lens of racial equity, the Human Services Department (HSD), connects people with resources and solutions during times of need so we can all live, learn, work, and take part in strong, healthy communities. 

HSD is seeking an experienced human services planner to support Aging and Disability Services (ADS), a division of HSD and designated Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for King County. ADS plans, coordinates, and advocates for a comprehensive service delivery system for older adults, caregivers, and adults with disabilities. This position is part of the ADS Planning unit which leads community investment processes, convenes events and forums, provides division-wide project management, and supports two volunteer advisory boards. 

The position reports to the ADS Planning Manager and works collaboratively across the division, department, county, and community.  

The planning unit is required to work on site at a minimum of 3 days per week. This position may require in person work more than 3 days per week to meet business needs.

Project Work

• Research, develop, design, implement, manage budget, and evaluate programs and projects
• Analyze population and program data to better inform policy and drive to results 
• Serve as team lead and facilitate cross-unit and inter/intra departmental work groups 
• Write reports, develop presentations, and keep leadership informed 
• Coordinate investment processes in accordance with state and HSD policies and procedures 
• Lead community and partner engagement activities 
• Build, strengthen, and expand relationships with providers, advocates, community advisory boards, and partners 

A successful candidate will be skilled in:

• Navigating a political and complex landscape (city, county, state) 
• Addressing systemic racism and ensuring policies and processes are equitable to BIPOC communities 
• Managing ambiguity and uncertainty, and the ability to be flexible, and resilient  
• Aptitude to lead with humility 
• Independently solving problems and developing creative solutions

Minimum Qualifications:  

Requires three years of experience in planning and research related to land use, urban economics, human services, environmental issues, conservation; or other work directly related to City planning and development activities; and a baccalaureate degree in planning, urban design, environmental studies, public administration or related field (or a combination of education and/or experience and/or training which provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class). 

OR: An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the position duties.

Desired Qualifications:  

• Strong written and oral communication skills, with demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with a diverse range of providers, policy makers, partners, and agency staff. 
• Experience using data for policy decisions, service delivery, and continuous quality improvement. 
• Experience developing policies, services, and programs that serve vulnerable populations. 
• Enjoy working in multi-disciplinary teams. 
• Highly skilled in project management including leading investment processes.
• Proficient in technology and ability to learn new systems.
• Understand the aging network and Medicaid programs for older adults and adults with disabilities. 
• Master’s degree in public administration, public health or related field. 

our application will not be reviewed if these items are missing or incomplete.

The hourly rate for this role is:  $54.28 - $63.26.

The planning unit is required to work on site at a minimum of 3 days per week. This position may require in person work more than 3 days per week to meet business needs.

1. Completed NEOGOV online application.
2. Current résumé indicating relevant experience and education. 
3. Cover letter describing how your skills and experience align with the stated job responsibilities and qualifications. 
4. Supplemental questionnaire responses. 

Offers of employment are contingent on verification of information provided by the applicant as part of the application process, which may include a detailed background check, pre-placement physical exam, and/or full driver's abstract, dependent upon position.

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. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

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Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.