[Hiring] Assistant Director of Planning and Public Works @Pierce County

Role Description

Pierce County is looking for a dedicated Assistant Director of Planning and Public Works who has:

• Deep knowledge of strategic and operational planning, complex budget oversight, and the laws and regulations governing public sector operations, with strong expertise in process improvement and change management.
• Skilled in building and leading multi-disciplinary teams, streamlining workflows, and delivering clear, high-impact messaging to internal teams, elected officials, and community stakeholders.
• Experienced in providing direct executive team support and high-level leadership in executing the vision and mission of the department and increasing collaboration and relationship building both internally and externally with elected officials, department leaders, and community partners.
• Committed to building a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation while fostering a workplace where employees feel valued and heard.

A complete classification can be found here.

Our strategic leader will focus on:

• Continuous improvement for themselves and their organizations.
• Fostering a growth mindset and life-long learning.
• Data-driven decision-making.
• Consideration for customer perspectives and impacts.
• Collaboration across large, diverse work environments.
• Ensuring equity and inclusion in all facets of work.
• Policy and guideline development; turning ideas into action.
• Championing the streamlining processes to create positive change.

Qualifications

• Eleven (11) years of progressively responsible experience in public sector administration, operational management, organizational development, planning, transportation, utilities management, or related field.
• Must include three (3) years of responsible supervisory experience managing a department, division or cross-functional team.
• Postsecondary education in engineering, planning, public administration, business, or closely related field may substitute for up to four (4) years of the required experience on a year-for-year basis.

Requirements

• A valid Washington State driver’s license or the ability to otherwise meet the travel requirements of the position is required.

Benefits

• Pierce County is committed to a "Forward Together" mission that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion while tackling critical community challenges.
• The focus on affordable housing, reducing homelessness, expanding behavioral health services, and creating good-paying jobs ensures a high quality of life for all residents.
• This dedication to fostering inclusive communities, safe infrastructure, and equitable access to opportunities makes Pierce County a place where careers thrive, and individuals can make meaningful contributions to a resilient, vibrant future.