What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Planner position at County of Thurston?
JOB
The salary for this position is $6,034 - $7,937 monthly.The Community Planning & Economic Development (CPED) department is seeking a highly motivated Associate Planner to join our Natural Resources Program. Under the guidance of a Natural Resources Program Manager, the Associate Planner is responsible for leading and coordinating county-wide water resource policy issues, with a focus on water resource management and streamflow restoration planning.The Associate Planner will use their skills to provide journey level expertise and guidance on water resource policy and planning issues. The focus for this position will be on a number of planning projects related to water resource management, streamflow restoration, natural resources policy issues, including on forestry and agriculture, climate resiliency, and salmon recovery.Being a great planning and policy analyst, communicator and experience with watershed planning is key for this position. You will be working with elected officials, community members, and other organizations on your projects. Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: Conduct journey level research at the direction of a Senior Planner, Natural Resources Program Manager, or Community Planning Manager and provide detailed staff reports and recommendations.Manage grants and contracts related to water resource management and streamflow restoration projectsParticipate in regional watershed management planning Advise elected and appointed officials, including the Planning Commission, Water Resource Advisory Board, on planning and policy issues and projects.Prepare and present reports and information to advisory groups, committees, community groups, and private organizations.Hold or assist with open houses, workshops and stakeholder groups.Respond to public inquiries with information on the planning process and policy issues.Work collaboratively across disciplines and departments to problem-solve around water resource planning issues.Prepare and/or review proposed amendments to county codes or long-range plans.This is a great position for an experienced Associate Planner, or someone who is early in their career who is ready to take on new challenges and would like to take the next step in their career.To view the full job classification, click here: Associate Planner WHO WE ARE: Community Planning & Economic Development is a fast-paced work environment dedicated to accountability, consistency, and transparency. The Community Planning Division is a diverse 20-member team planning for our future. The team includes members with expertise in public engagement, planning and growth management, environmental planning, hydrogeology, water resources monitoring, climate data analysis, and flood hazard planning. The experts of Community Planning are on the leading edge of major issues affecting the Thurston County community including: Comprehensive PlanningWildlife Habitat ConnectivityClimate Resilience PlanningRural Water Availability PlanningEconomic Development Joint Planning with the Cities in Thurston CountyShoreline and Critical Areas PlanningThe team members of Community Planning & Economic Development make it a wonderful place to work and effect change. CPED is a department of highly motivated professionals working for the people of Thurston County and planning for its future. CPED works to conserve natural resources, plan for resilient communities, ensure buildings are safe and energy-efficient and plan for future growth.Thurston County values the diversity of the people it hires and serves. Inclusion to us means fostering a workplace in which individual differences are recognized, appreciated, and responded to in ways that fully develop and utilize each person’s talents and strengths. We are dedicated to recruiting and developing a talented workforce from various cultures, lifestyles, backgrounds, and perspectives who are committed to our vision and core values. Thurston County Racial Equity and Inclusion Webpage WHAT WE OFFER OUR EMPLOYEES: Work-Life Balance: We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle.Plan For Your Future: As a member of our team, you will enjoy great employee benefits, including a retirement plan, pre-tax savings accounts, as well as comprehensive health care and dental/vision care for you and your family. Please visit Thurston County Employee Benefit Plans for more information.Paid Leave: Full-time regular employees earn paid vacation in addition to paid holidays.Robust Training Program: Employees are encouraged to attend County paid training to help them further their career, learn new skill sets, and stay on top of emerging trends in our industry. We also encourage our staff to participate in professional organizations and attend conferences.Flexible Work Schedules: Some of the options that employees may take advantage of include alternative or compressed schedules and/or remote working.Deferred Compensation: The County offers 3 voluntary deferred compensation plans for employees who would like to set aside additional deferred tax dollars into a retirement savings plan.Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Employees can take advantage of Section 125 flexible spending accounts for out-of-pocket health care and daycare expenses with pre-tax dollars.Public Service Loan Forgiveness: This is a federal program which allows full-time public service employees who have made qualifying payments for certain loans, to get their student loans repaid. Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program Why you’ll love it here: Thurston County is located between Seattle and Portland in Western Washington’s South Puget Sound Region. Perched in between the mountains and the ocean, the area boasts the perfect blend of year-round outdoor activities including boating, hiking, skiing, and more. The region is also home to the state capitol city of Olympia, known for its many restaurants, microbreweries, coffee shops, farmer’s markets, kids’ activities, history, and art events. Discover more about life in Thurston County at Experienceolympia.com.Message to potential applicants: We understand that some potential applicants are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the functions or skills listed in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and we understand that may be someone who will learn some of these skills on the job. If you are interested in this position, and meet the minimum qualifications, we encourage you to go ahead and apply! Feel free to think about how you will bring your own set of skills to the role and tell us about the potential that you hold. QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in Planning, Geography, Public Administration, Environmental Science, Earth Science, Biology, Environmental Planning, or a closely related field depending upon area of assignment. Additional experience may be substituted for education on a year for year basis. Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in professional level planning in current, long range, and/or environmental planning. Ability to utilize the personal computer and related software packages to perform word processing, information retrieval and tracking. Current Washington State Driver's License or have requested and obtained an appropriate accommodation. DESIRED SKILLS: Master’s degree in biological sciences, public administration, ecology, environmental planning, or a related field. Knowledge of water resource management, streamflow restoration planning, or a related field.Knowledge of geospatial data analysis and interpreting environmental data.Ability to prepare budgets, familiarity with State and Federal funding opportunities to apply for grants and administer consultant contracts.Ability to quickly assess problems and act independently to positively resolve conflicts and coordinate efforts constructively and collaboratively to the satisfaction of elected officials, tribal partners, regulators, staff, local jurisdictions, consultants, contractors, and the community.Knowledge of conservation financing, land acquisition, and site management planning related to natural resource conservation programs. Experience in project management and giving presentations.Ability to conduct effective research and evaluate complex data to prepare clear and concise written and oral reports.Ability to develop and manage long-range conservation plans, short-range operational programs, and day-to-day property management.Ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups regarding complex or controversial planning policies or regulations.Ability to collaborate with other staff, property owners, developers, contractors, public officials, the general public, and representatives of other agencies. OTHER RELATED RECRUITMENT INFORMATION: Questions about this recruitment? Please contact: Alana Bradshaw at (360) 480-8237 or by email at alana.bradshaw@co.thurston.wa.us. This position is: Represented by a Union Eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)Eligible for benefitsItems required for consideration: ApplicationLetter of InterestResumeList of three professional references Please note: Information in this announcement is subject to change without notice at any time during the length of the job advertisement. THURSTON COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERThurston County is committed to provide equal opportunity to all persons seeking or having access to its employment, services and activities, which is free from restriction based on race, sex, marital status, color, creed or religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, including gender expression or identity, pregnancy, status as an honorably discharged veteran or military status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, unless based upon bona fide occupational qualifications. Applicants with disabilities who need accommodation with the application or selection process should contact Thurston County’s Human Resources, at (360) 786-5498. Those who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing or speech impaired may use the statewide relay system to reach Thurston County offices and departments to conduct their business telephonically. Relay users can simply dial 7-1-1 (or 1-800-833-6388) to connect with Washington Relay.
The salary for this position is $6,034 - $7,937 monthly.The Community Planning & Economic Development (CPED) department is seeking a highly motivated Associate Planner to join our Natural Resources Program. Under the guidance of a Natural Resources Program Manager, the Associate Planner is responsible for leading and coordinating county-wide water resource policy issues, with a focus on water resource management and streamflow restoration planning.The Associate Planner will use their skills to provide journey level expertise and guidance on water resource policy and planning issues. The focus for this position will be on a number of planning projects related to water resource management, streamflow restoration, natural resources policy issues, including on forestry and agriculture, climate resiliency, and salmon recovery.Being a great planning and policy analyst, communicator and experience with watershed planning is key for this position. You will be working with elected officials, community members, and other organizations on your projects. Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: Conduct journey level research at the direction of a Senior Planner, Natural Resources Program Manager, or Community Planning Manager and provide detailed staff reports and recommendations.Manage grants and contracts related to water resource management and streamflow restoration projectsParticipate in regional watershed management planning Advise elected and appointed officials, including the Planning Commission, Water Resource Advisory Board, on planning and policy issues and projects.Prepare and present reports and information to advisory groups, committees, community groups, and private organizations.Hold or assist with open houses, workshops and stakeholder groups.Respond to public inquiries with information on the planning process and policy issues.Work collaboratively across disciplines and departments to problem-solve around water resource planning issues.Prepare and/or review proposed amendments to county codes or long-range plans.This is a great position for an experienced Associate Planner, or someone who is early in their career who is ready to take on new challenges and would like to take the next step in their career.To view the full job classification, click here: Associate Planner WHO WE ARE: Community Planning & Economic Development is a fast-paced work environment dedicated to accountability, consistency, and transparency. The Community Planning Division is a diverse 20-member team planning for our future. The team includes members with expertise in public engagement, planning and growth management, environmental planning, hydrogeology, water resources monitoring, climate data analysis, and flood hazard planning. The experts of Community Planning are on the leading edge of major issues affecting the Thurston County community including: Comprehensive PlanningWildlife Habitat ConnectivityClimate Resilience PlanningRural Water Availability PlanningEconomic Development Joint Planning with the Cities in Thurston CountyShoreline and Critical Areas PlanningThe team members of Community Planning & Economic Development make it a wonderful place to work and effect change. CPED is a department of highly motivated professionals working for the people of Thurston County and planning for its future. CPED works to conserve natural resources, plan for resilient communities, ensure buildings are safe and energy-efficient and plan for future growth.Thurston County values the diversity of the people it hires and serves. Inclusion to us means fostering a workplace in which individual differences are recognized, appreciated, and responded to in ways that fully develop and utilize each person’s talents and strengths. We are dedicated to recruiting and developing a talented workforce from various cultures, lifestyles, backgrounds, and perspectives who are committed to our vision and core values. Thurston County Racial Equity and Inclusion Webpage WHAT WE OFFER OUR EMPLOYEES: Work-Life Balance: We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle.Plan For Your Future: As a member of our team, you will enjoy great employee benefits, including a retirement plan, pre-tax savings accounts, as well as comprehensive health care and dental/vision care for you and your family. Please visit Thurston County Employee Benefit Plans for more information.Paid Leave: Full-time regular employees earn paid vacation in addition to paid holidays.Robust Training Program: Employees are encouraged to attend County paid training to help them further their career, learn new skill sets, and stay on top of emerging trends in our industry. We also encourage our staff to participate in professional organizations and attend conferences.Flexible Work Schedules: Some of the options that employees may take advantage of include alternative or compressed schedules and/or remote working.Deferred Compensation: The County offers 3 voluntary deferred compensation plans for employees who would like to set aside additional deferred tax dollars into a retirement savings plan.Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Employees can take advantage of Section 125 flexible spending accounts for out-of-pocket health care and daycare expenses with pre-tax dollars.Public Service Loan Forgiveness: This is a federal program which allows full-time public service employees who have made qualifying payments for certain loans, to get their student loans repaid. Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program Why you’ll love it here: Thurston County is located between Seattle and Portland in Western Washington’s South Puget Sound Region. Perched in between the mountains and the ocean, the area boasts the perfect blend of year-round outdoor activities including boating, hiking, skiing, and more. The region is also home to the state capitol city of Olympia, known for its many restaurants, microbreweries, coffee shops, farmer’s markets, kids’ activities, history, and art events. Discover more about life in Thurston County at Experienceolympia.com.Message to potential applicants: We understand that some potential applicants are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the functions or skills listed in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and we understand that may be someone who will learn some of these skills on the job. If you are interested in this position, and meet the minimum qualifications, we encourage you to go ahead and apply! Feel free to think about how you will bring your own set of skills to the role and tell us about the potential that you hold. QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in Planning, Geography, Public Administration, Environmental Science, Earth Science, Biology, Environmental Planning, or a closely related field depending upon area of assignment. Additional experience may be substituted for education on a year for year basis. Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in professional level planning in current, long range, and/or environmental planning. Ability to utilize the personal computer and related software packages to perform word processing, information retrieval and tracking. Current Washington State Driver's License or have requested and obtained an appropriate accommodation. DESIRED SKILLS: Master’s degree in biological sciences, public administration, ecology, environmental planning, or a related field. Knowledge of water resource management, streamflow restoration planning, or a related field.Knowledge of geospatial data analysis and interpreting environmental data.Ability to prepare budgets, familiarity with State and Federal funding opportunities to apply for grants and administer consultant contracts.Ability to quickly assess problems and act independently to positively resolve conflicts and coordinate efforts constructively and collaboratively to the satisfaction of elected officials, tribal partners, regulators, staff, local jurisdictions, consultants, contractors, and the community.Knowledge of conservation financing, land acquisition, and site management planning related to natural resource conservation programs. Experience in project management and giving presentations.Ability to conduct effective research and evaluate complex data to prepare clear and concise written and oral reports.Ability to develop and manage long-range conservation plans, short-range operational programs, and day-to-day property management.Ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups regarding complex or controversial planning policies or regulations.Ability to collaborate with other staff, property owners, developers, contractors, public officials, the general public, and representatives of other agencies. OTHER RELATED RECRUITMENT INFORMATION: Questions about this recruitment? Please contact: Alana Bradshaw at (360) 480-8237 or by email at alana.bradshaw@co.thurston.wa.us. This position is: Represented by a Union Eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)Eligible for benefitsItems required for consideration: ApplicationLetter of InterestResumeList of three professional references Please note: Information in this announcement is subject to change without notice at any time during the length of the job advertisement. THURSTON COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERThurston County is committed to provide equal opportunity to all persons seeking or having access to its employment, services and activities, which is free from restriction based on race, sex, marital status, color, creed or religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, including gender expression or identity, pregnancy, status as an honorably discharged veteran or military status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, unless based upon bona fide occupational qualifications. Applicants with disabilities who need accommodation with the application or selection process should contact Thurston County’s Human Resources, at (360) 786-5498. Those who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing or speech impaired may use the statewide relay system to reach Thurston County offices and departments to conduct their business telephonically. Relay users can simply dial 7-1-1 (or 1-800-833-6388) to connect with Washington Relay.
Salary : $6,034 - $7,937
