Equitable Contracting Advisor; SA

Overview

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking an Equitable Contracting Advisor (SA1) to lead our Equity in Contracting and Women and Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE) programs. This is a unique opportunity to drive systemic change by ensuring equitable access to public contracting opportunities and expanding supplier diversity across SPU’s procurement landscape. In this high-impact role, you’ll shape and implement equity-centered initiatives, develop inclusive policies, and build strong partnerships with historically underrepresented communities.

You’ll also lead staff training, create accessible tools and resources, and represent SPU in citywide equity efforts. If you re a collaborative leader with a deep commitment to racial and social equity, data-driven decision-making, and community engagement, we invite you to bring your vision and expertise to our team.

About Seattle Public Utilities
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Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout the SPU Website or Strategic Business Plan. SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all.

We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities. We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with. SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free public transportation options
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities

• Lead and manage SPU’s Equity in Contracting and WMBE programs
• Shape and implement equity-driven contracting initiatives aligned with SPU’s broader equity strategy
• Develop annual WMBE utilization goals and a strategic workplan
• Represent SPU on the City’s WMBE Interdepartmental Team (IDT)

• Deliver training to SPU staff on WMBE goals, policies, and best practices
• Create accessible tools and guidance for internal teams and external vendors
• Design and execute communication strategies to promote equity in contracting
• Forecast and share upcoming contracting opportunities with stakeholders

• Build strong relationships with WMBE suppliers, community organizations, and City partners
• Organize and participate in events, workshops, and trade shows to foster engagement
• Lead inclusive stakeholder sessions to gather input and share program updates
• Support Citywide efforts to deepen relationships with historically underrepresented communities

• Develop and refine equity-centered policies and procedures
• Build dashboards and reports to track program performance and outcomes
• Analyze trends, identify gaps, and recommend actionable solutions
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting, including quarterly WMBE reports and monthly O&M updates

• Collaborate on procurement planning and pre-solicitation engagement
• Manage subcontracting compliance to ensure inclusive participation
• Promote equitable access throughout SPU’s contracting processes

Note: 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…