Project Specialist

The Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments is seeking an individual with project coordination experience to assist with the Target Zero Traffic Safety Program in Cowlitz, Lewis, and Wahkiakum Counties. The temporary, full-time position is opened until filled and will continue through September 30, 2027. Continuation of program beyond that dependent on funding.

Salary: $27-$30 per hour DOQ. Excellent benefits. EOE.

The Regional Traffic Safety Specialist position is classified as a temporary, full-time Level I Specialist. The position will be responsible for assisting the Target Zero Lead with local task forces in the coordination of traffic safety efforts and resources by tracking data, trends, and traffic related problems within Cowlitz, Wahkiakum, and Lewis Counties. Assisting with the development and providing a variety of traffic safety programs, services, and public outreach throughout the three counties by working with local partners.

• Attend training events required by Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC).
• Ensure compliance with state and federal guidelines.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and identify needs.
• Present at meetings or conferences to foster engagement with traffic safety efforts.
• Respond to public inquiries with information on the projects process and public policy.

• Compiling and analyzing statistical information from data, surveys, questionnaires, studies, interviews and other materials.
• Completing monthly, quarterly, and yearly reporting documents as required by WSTC.
• Developing logic models and implementation plans for strategies or countermeasures and tracking progress.
• Establishing regional priorities for traffic safety issues.
• Identifying demographics and/or communities over represented in the traffic crash and fatality data.
• Planning and implementation of community engagement and community outreach efforts.
• Regional Coalition and County Task Forces; recruitment and engagement of stakeholders, scheduling and facilitation of meetings and stakeholder training.

Designated Title VI liaison. Reports all Title VI activities within program to the coordinator to ensure compliance with grant, contract, and Title VI Plan fulfillment.

Performs other duties as assigned.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with state and local agency members, planning staff, and community members.
• Ability to write clearly and concisely to effectively communicate goals, project purpose, and outcomes.
• Ability to work independently, handle multiple tasks and consistently meet deadlines.
• Experience with and enthusiasm for organizing, conducting, and engaging the public.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills with a high degree of organization.
• Must possess positive and effective human relations skills to include working in a team environment and possess a high degree of professional ethics and confidentiality.
• Ability to use technology and software related to computers and communications as required for the position.

The Specialist I classification is distinguishable from other positions in that it works on projects or assignments that involve application of unique skill with knowledge and judgement in specific situations. This position requires direct view by lead.

Work is generally performed in an office environment requiring extended periods of sitting and concentrating; exposure to computer-related conditions with the occasional lifting of supplies/materials up to 30lbs.

Duties involve frequent travel to attend meetings and conduct work within the local region and state.

Working hours are flexible and on many occasions, attendance is occasionally required at meetings held outside normal working hours.

Working conditions require the ability to work well and complete duties under stress, deadlines, and while attending to multiple duties simultaneously.

Technical degree/certificate or equivalent training in the field. Entry level experience.

People skills required for providing work leadership, training and other high-level interactions; demonstrated ability to handle the most complex situations.

Must possess a valid driver's license.

Salary/Compensation: $27.00 - $30.00 per hour