Long Range Planner III; PPM III

The Department of Local Services - Director’s Office is looking for one (1) full-time Career Service and one (1) full-time Term-Limited Temporary (TLT) seasoned planners 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.

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.

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

• 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…