Join our Team! The Department of Local Services is hiring a Principal Long Range Land Use Planner (Project/Program Manager IV). We're looking for a seasoned planner to lead long-range land use policy, code amendment initiatives, and subarea planning projects that shape the future of King County.

As a Principal Planner, you will lead a portfolio of projects, mentor and/or supervise 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, including a focus on urban and rural planning. You'll lead projects that align land use, permitting, housing, and environmental goals with community and county priorities. You'll have the opportunity to 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, the Office of Regional Planning, and other agencies to support inclusive, strategic, and future-focused planning.

Job Duties

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.

Planning & Project Management

• Lead and develop land use policy and code development projects for the Department of Local Services which includes the Director's Office, Permitting Division, and Road Services Division, collaborating with colleagues across King County government.
• Undertake and lead subarea planning projects in both rural and urban unincorporated areas, continuously refining processes to improve outcomes for communities.
• Serve as a technical resource on subarea planning and provide expertise on specific plan content, including executing land use and zoning amendments.
• Develop code amendments to address land use, housing, environment, and the range of services provided by King County.
• Coordinate closely with planners and professionals from the King County Permitting Division, Roads Division, Office of Regional Planning, and other departments.

Community Engagement & Equity

• Develop and implement innovative public engagement and communications strategies to foster meaningful dialogue with diverse communities.
• Undertake equity-focused analysis and engagement, including work with Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color, as well as other underrepresented groups, to develop inclusive plans and policies.

Research, Writing & Policy Development

• Prepare clear, accurate, and logically sound written materials, including legislative materials for consideration by elected leaders.
• Conduct thorough research and analysis using demographic, financial, and geographic data to inform planning and policy decisions.
• Collaborate with department staff 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.
• Provide staff support for 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.