Long Range Planner III; PPM III

Summary

The Department of Local Services – Director’s Office seeks one full‑time Career Service and one full‑time Term‑Limited Temporary (TLT) seasoned planner 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 and will lead a portfolio of projects, code writing efforts, mentoring, and prioritizing projects for elected leaders and department staff.

The role requires balancing equity, community, and county priorities while delivering high‑profile, complex planning projects.

• Develop land use policies and codes that respond to countywide and regional needs, conducting planning for urban and rural communities.
• Lead projects that align land use, permitting, housing, and environmental goals with community and county priorities.
• Collaborate with community members, colleagues, and department leaders to assess needs, analyze data, manage projects, and craft legislation.
• 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 and partners to draft and review legislation, policies, and reports.
• Assist in resolving legal issues related to proposed legislation in partnership with relevant County offices.
• Ensure consistency between the King County Comprehensive Plan policies and related regulations, and support updates to the Comprehensive Plan as needed.
• Stay informed on land use trends, activity, legislation, and other key issues affecting unincorporated areas.
• Participate in interdepartmental and interjurisdictional teams and community outreach efforts.
• Work cooperatively with colleagues and external partners to address project‑related challenges.
• 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.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Accountable
• Collaborative
• Timely
• Impactful
• Value Employees
• Accessible
• Trusted
• Equitable

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, urban studies, or related field; or equivalent education and experience.
• Five or more years of professional experience in long‑range land use planning, including drafting policies and guiding government actions.
• Practical understanding of development permitting processes, economics, zoning code standards, design guidelines, and plan policies.
• Knowledge of Washington’s planning framework, including the Growth Management Act, Shorelines Act, and State Environmental Policy Act.
• Experience drafting legislation, analyzing supporting data, crafting reports, delivering presentations to elected officials, and contributing to legislative processes.
• Understanding of land use law and ability to identify issues, assess risks, and seek appropriate legal guidance.
• Proven experience leading inclusive outreach and engagement strategies with historically underrepresented groups.
• Experience managing complex projects using project management best practices to meet deadlines and deliver high‑quality outcomes.
• Strong communication skills—listening, feedback, negotiation, and concise oral presentation; advanced presentation experience before legislative bodies, partners, and the public.
• Outstanding writing skills, both technical and non‑technical, tailored to diverse audiences.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and common desktop tools; experience with GIS and Adobe InDesign preferred.

• Master’s or professional degree in public administration, urban/regional planning, architecture, or land use law.
• Experience drafting or implementing green building policies.
• Experience with King County, Washington State, or Federal code promulgation processes.
• Experience developing and implementing complex communication strategies.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage…