Information and Access Strategic Advisor

Seattle’s Human Services Department (HSD) connects people with resources and solutions during times of need so we can all live, learn, work, and take part in strong, healthy communities.

HSD is seeking an Information and Access Strategic Advisor with experience in handling:

• Public Disclosure Requests;

• Community Engagement;

• Microsoft SharePoint Management; and

• An understanding and experience applying Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in services and programs.

This seasoned professional will apply this knowledge and experience to HSD’s six impact areas: 1) Preparing Youth for Success, 2) Supporting Affordability and Livability, 3) Supporting Safe Communities, 4) Addressing Homelessness, 5) Promoting Public Health, and 6) Promoting Healthy Aging.

This position will serve as the departmental lead on Public Disclosure Requests, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) implementation, and Microsoft SharePoint. They will also lead community engagement efforts department wide.

SharePoint Management:

• Oversee and manage the department's transition to the Microsoft 365 SharePoint environment.

• Provide strategic direction and guidance to SharePoint editors across the department to ensure consistent functionality and maintain brand standards.
• Develop and implement training programs for SharePoint editors for skills development and effective use of the platform.
• Serve as the primary liaison between HSD and the Microsoft 365 technical team.

Public Disclosure Requests (PDRs) Management:

• Manage all aspects of the department-wide public disclosure requests to ensure compliance with legal standards and timeliness.

• Handle requests involving sensitive information, such as homelessness and community safety, with an emphasis on discretion, confidentiality, and situational awareness.

• Act as a liaison between HSD, other city departments, the media, and the public concerning PDRs.
• Attend citywide PDR trainings and manage the PDR tracking system.
• Assign PDR tasks and responsibilities to appropriate subject matter experts and ensure that all records responsive to PDRs are accurately collected and processed.

Event Planning and Coordination:

• Plan, organize, and coordinate department-wide meetings and external events, such as community forums, advisory groups, and public feedback sessions that inform HSD’s decisions and actions.

• Oversee logistical arrangements, coordinate with vendors, to ensure smooth execution.

Community Engagement Framework Update:

• Lead a comprehensive assessment and update of the HSD community engagement framework to reflect current community needs and departmental objectives.

• Promote stakeholder and community involvement in HSD’s decision-making processes through active participation in various platforms and initiatives.

Americans with Disabilities Act Lead

• Support HSD divisions in the interpretation and implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) policies in programs and services.

This is not a comprehensive list. The Strat will take on other projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in in the social sciences or another discipline that includes a heavy emphasis on access and communication

• Three or more years of progressively responsible experience in access and communication

• Three or more years working in federal, state, local government, academic, or community-based settings

• Demonstrable and thorough knowledge of Public Disclosure Request processes

OR: An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the position duties

Desired Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (MA, MS, MBA, MPA, Ed.D., Ph.D.) in the social sciences or another discipline that includes a heavy emphasis on communication and access

• Five years of progressively responsible experience in access and communication

• Experience in managing large-scale community events

To be successful in this role you will need:

• Commitment to Service: Demonstrated ability to provide excellent customer service and build positive, trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Understanding and interpretation of the ADA:  Ability to interpret policy and ensure appropriate programmatic implementation.

• Understanding and experience handling Public Disclosure Requests.

• Communication Abilities: Excellent written and verbal skills in communicating complex subject matter and terminology through succinct, accessible information to government and community leaders and members of the public. Written materials may include reports, briefing memos, presentation material, data dashboards, and more. 

• Equity Analysis: Apply racial equity framework to all work and engage in departmental efforts to eliminate racial disparities and advance equity in City government and broader community

• Relational Skills: Outstanding interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with a multidisciplinary team and collaborators, including a wide array of partners from diverse backgrounds and in a hybrid work environment. Ability to communicate complex issues to both technical audiences and the public. 

1. Completed NEOGOV online application.

1. Current résumé indicating relevant experience and education. 

1. Cover letter describing how your skills and experience align with the stated job responsibilities and qualifications. 

Offers of employment are contingent on verification of information provided by the applicant as part of the application process, including potential background check, pre-placement physical exam, and full driver's abstract.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

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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 notice.