The Asphalt of Democracy: Public Works and the Foundations of Trust
Public Works may not grab headlines, but it quietly shapes how we judge local government every day. From clean water to plowed streets, these services are the most visible proof that City Hall delivers. When things run smoothly, trust grows; when they don’t, frustration follows. In an era of civic skepticism, every filled pothole and fixed pipe is more than maintenance- it’s a chance to rebuild public confidence, one project, one neighborhood at a time.
Public Works departments play a pivotal role in shaping how residents perceive local government functionality. The visibility and direct impact of services such as street maintenance, waste collection, snow removal, and water infrastructure make Public Works one of the most tangible interfaces between citizens and governance. When these services are delivered efficiently and equitably, they reinforce the perception of a competent and trustworthy administration. Conversely, delays, inconsistencies, or perceived favoritism in service delivery can quickly erode trust and discourage civic participation. Studies have shown that visible improvements in infrastructure and consistent service delivery correlate with increased satisfaction and willingness to engage in community initiatives1.
Trust in Public Works is often influenced by how well departments communicate with residents about projects, disruptions, and decision-making processes. For instance, providing clear and timely updates about road closures or water line repairs can reduce frustration and increase public appreciation for the complexity of the work. When residents feel informed and respected, they are more likely to support future infrastructure investments, participate in public comment periods, and take part in local planning efforts. A robust communication strategy, including the use of digital platforms and community liaisons, is essential for fostering transparency and demonstrating responsiveness2.
Leveraging Community Networks to Strengthen Infrastructure Projects
Social networks within a community are critical in shaping how infrastructure projects are received and understood. Informal communication channels, such as neighborhood associations, religious groups, or local business coalitions, often act as amplifiers of both trust and skepticism. Public Works departments that engage with these networks early and often can benefit from grassroots feedback and increased legitimacy. This type of inclusive engagement helps ensure that projects are not only technically sound but also socially sustainable. For example, involving trusted community leaders in the planning stages of a streetscape improvement can lead to better design decisions and fewer implementation delays3.
Cultural norms also influence how residents interpret infrastructure interventions. In some communities, visible signs of government action are equated with progress and care, while in others, they may be viewed as intrusive or politically motivated. Understanding these cultural undercurrents requires deliberate relationship-building and listening sessions facilitated by municipal staff. Public Works managers should partner with planning and community development departments to identify cultural patterns and tailor outreach accordingly. This approach not only improves project outcomes but also reinforces the perception that the government values the lived experiences of its residents4.
Embedding Fairness and Equity into Public Works Practices
Perceived fairness in the delivery of Public Works services is a major determinant of trust. Residents are acutely aware of disparities in the quality and frequency of service across neighborhoods. Whether real or perceived, service inequities can spark public criticism and diminish support for broader municipal initiatives. To address this, departments should implement data-driven asset management systems that prioritize maintenance and investment based on need, not political influence or historical precedent. Tools such as pavement condition indexes and service request heat maps can help justify resource allocation decisions and demonstrate a commitment to equity5.
Equitable infrastructure planning also involves proactively engaging historically underserved communities. This includes offering translation services, holding meetings at accessible times and locations, and incorporating community-based organizations into the planning process. When residents see that their input leads to tangible changes, such as the installation of new streetlights or sidewalk repairs, they are more likely to remain engaged and advocate for their neighborhoods. Public Works professionals must adopt a service-oriented mindset that views infrastructure not just as physical assets, but as vehicles for social inclusion and justice6.
Building Lasting Relationships Through Participatory Infrastructure Planning
Participatory planning processes can significantly enhance both the quality of infrastructure projects and the level of civic engagement. When residents are invited to co-create solutions—such as identifying priority intersections for traffic calming or selecting designs for public spaces—they develop a sense of ownership and stewardship. Public Works departments can facilitate this by hosting design charrettes, interactive workshops, or pop-up engagement events in public parks and community centers. These forums not only gather valuable local knowledge but also signal that the department values community insight as much as technical expertise7.
Successful participatory processes require sustained effort and organizational alignment. Staff must be trained in facilitation and conflict resolution, timelines must allow for meaningful input, and leadership must be committed to implementing community-generated ideas where feasible. Departments that institutionalize these practices—through formal policies, budget allocations, and performance metrics—are better positioned to maintain long-term relationships with residents. Over time, this can lead to increased volunteerism, stronger advocacy for infrastructure funding, and more resilient communities that are actively invested in their built environment8.
Practical Strategies for Public Works to Deepen Civic Engagement
There are several actionable steps Public Works departments can take to build trust and foster engagement. First, develop a comprehensive communication plan that includes both proactive outreach and responsive feedback loops. Use a mix of platforms—websites, social media, community bulletin boards, and in-person updates—to reach diverse audiences. Second, establish performance dashboards that track service delivery metrics such as pothole response times, street sweeping schedules, or water main break repairs. Making this data publicly accessible boosts transparency and allows residents to hold the department accountable9.
Third, create structured opportunities for resident input on capital improvement plans and maintenance prioritization. This can include citizen advisory boards, participatory budgeting exercises, or interactive GIS tools that allow users to report issues and suggest improvements. Finally, invest in staff development to ensure frontline employees understand their role in shaping public perceptions. Training in customer service, cultural competency, and community engagement equips staff to represent the department—and by extension, the local government—effectively and empathetically. These strategies, when consistently applied, help translate technical excellence into civic trust10.
Bibliography
National Research Center. "The National Community Survey 2021: Public Opinion on Local Government Services." ICMA, 2021.
U.S. Department of Transportation. "Public Involvement Techniques for Transportation Decision-Making." Federal Highway Administration, 2020.
Putnam, Robert D. Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2000.
American Public Works Association. "Community Engagement for Public Works Projects." APWA Reporter, November 2022.
International City/County Management Association. "Equity in Infrastructure: A Guide for Local Government Leaders." ICMA Press, 2021.
PolicyLink. "Equitable Infrastructure: A Framework for Inclusive Public Investment." PolicyLink, 2020.
San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency. "Public Participation Plan." SFMTA, 2019.
City of Portland Bureau of Transportation. "Community Engagement Toolkit." Portland.gov, 2021.
Government Finance Officers Association. "Transparency and Accountability in Public Infrastructure Spending." GFOA, 2022.
Harvard Kennedy School. "Engaging Communities in Public Decisions: A Field Guide." Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation, 2018.
More from Public Works
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Public Works
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
ABOUT THE ROLE The Pasadena Water and Power Department is a community-owned municipal utility providing electricity and water services. Priorities include reliability, responsiveness to customers, competitive rates, and environmental stewardship. Multiple engineering opportunities are available across the Water Resources and Planning, Water Facilities, and Water Distribution divisions to support long-term resiliency and sustainable water management. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Water Resources and Planning: Oversee water resource planning, groundwater sustainability initiatives, and capital investments. Collaborate with regional partners to secure and manage the water future while ensuring regulatory compliance. - Water Facilities: Plan, design, construct, and manage critical water infrastructure including groundwater wells, booster stations, reservoirs, and treatment plants. Oversee complex capital improvement projects from design and permitting through construction and closeout. - Water Distribution: Manage water distribution facilities, service installations, hydraulic system planning, and capital improvement projects. Serve as the frontline connection to the community to maintain system reliability. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Specific minimum qualifications and detailed requirements for each engineering level and division are not listed in this summary and can be found in the respective official job brochures provided by the City of Pasadena. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - No specific special requirements are explicitly detailed in this general opportunity listing. SELECTION PROCESS - A list of three professional references must be submitted with the application, but references will not be contacted in the early stages of the recruitment process. HOW TO APPLY - Electronically submit a resume, cover letter, and a list of three professional references. - Water Resources and Planning: Apply via https://koffassociates.com/principal-engineer-water-resources-and-planning/ - Water Facilities: Apply via https://koffassociates.com/capital-projects-manager-engineer-water-facilities/ - Water Distribution: Apply via https://koffassociates.com/engineer-associate-engineer-water-distribution/ - Filing Deadline: September 4, 2026 (Listing closes October 4, 2026). - For additional information, contact Chelsea Freeman at 510.570.3844 or chelsea_freeman@ajg.com. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full-Time - Location: Pasadena, CA - Employer: City of Pasadena, Water and Power Department - Work Environment: The City of Pasadena is a vibrant, diverse community offering an exceptional quality of life, historic charm, and a collaborative, forward-thinking, customer-focused municipal organization.
ABOUT THE ROLE King County Metro Transit's Rail Division is seeking a Wayside Maintenance Section Manager to report to the Senior Maintenance Manager. This senior leader will manage programs and staff within the Wayside Section, overseeing business strategy, planning, operations, and service delivery for workgroups including SCADA, Signals & Communications, Track and Right of Way, and Wayside Maintenance Planner Scheduler. The role involves developing and implementing long-term business and employee strategies to support the Rail Division's success, fostering a culture of safety, driving maintenance excellence, and supporting equity and sustainability. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide Senior Leadership: Serve on Rail's Senior Leadership Team, collaborate across sections, engage with outside agency partners, and develop a culture of care, inclusion, and belonging. - Safety & Maintenance Excellence: Lead the section in delivering safe, reliable maintenance, oversee planning and operations, develop innovative strategies, manage the section's budget and resources, and leverage data from EAMS and Excel for maintenance planning. - Employee Engagement & Organizational Culture: Provide strategies for section expansion, develop staffing models with Superintendents, track service delivery impacts and KPIs, and maintain effective partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including labor and Sound Transit partners. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Option 1: 5 years of management or supervisory experience in rail wayside maintenance. Option 2: A 2-year degree in a related field and 3 or more years of management or supervisory experience in rail wayside maintenance or a related field. Option 3: 3 or more years of experience in rail wayside maintenance and 2 or more years of management or supervisory experience in rail wayside maintenance or a related field. Plus experience in: - Implementing safety rules and procedures in various operating environments and overseeing safety critical positions. - Integrating an equity mindset into continuous improvement activities. - Working effectively with diverse individuals and groups, and within unionized environments. - Communicating effectively and making decisions reflecting fairness, respect, equity, and inclusiveness. - Supporting a culture of employee engagement, coaching, and team building. Plus knowledge of: - Practices and industry standards for maintaining light rail systems, equipment, and structures. - FTA, APTA, AREMA standards and other technical documents. - Railroad operations and on-track safety application. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Desired Qualifications: Solid expertise in the maintenance of track, signal, and SCADA systems; proven experience developing and delivering organizational strategies; demonstrated experience building, leading, and developing high-performing teams. - Must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to the King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements. SELECTION PROCESS - Application materials (application, letter of interest, and supplemental question responses) will be screened to determine if candidates meet qualifications and for clarity, completeness, and responsiveness. - Highly competitive applicants may be asked to interview. - Formal offers will be finalized after candidates successfully complete pre-employment processes, such as reference checks or internal record reviews. - For questions regarding this recruitment, contact Skyler Jones, Senior Talent Advisor, at skjones@kingcounty.gov. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an online King County application, updated with all detailed relevant work history going back 10 years (or more, if necessary). - Complete all required supplemental questions. - Submit a letter of interest (1-2 pages) describing: 1. How your experience and background meet or exceed the qualifications for this position. 2. How you lead diverse groups in an active railroad environment. 3. How you have applied equity and social justice principles in your current and/or previous role(s). - Note: This announcement has been reposted. Applicants who applied prior to June 16, 2026, do not need to reapply. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: King County (MTD - Metro Transit, Rail Division) - Job Type: Career Service (Exec), Full Time, Exempt (not eligible for overtime) - Classification/Pay Grade: 874030 (Transit Section Manager), Grade 77 - Union Status: Not represented by a union (Z3 : KC Personnel Guidelines) - Location: Operations & Maintenance Facility - 3407 Airport Way S, Seattle, WA (temporarily at OMF-C, future location at 5th and Jackson main campus). - Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday. Periodic work outside normal workday is required. - Telework: Eligible for hybrid work, requiring a minimum of 4 days per week onsite to support team collaboration and leadership presence. - Opening Date: 06/18/2026 - Closing Date: Continuous
ABOUT THE ROLE Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking an experienced Construction Engineering Section Manager to lead the Construction Engineering Section within the Construction Management Division. This role involves managing public work programs, supervising engineering and construction staff, and acting as the construction management subject matter expert during the design phase. The manager will drive critical programs that impact infrastructure, employee safety, and community resources while ensuring consistent administration of project contracts during the construction phase. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and administer comprehensive construction management standard operating procedures. - Implement organizational change using change management principles and Lean Process Improvements. - Assist subordinates with field inspection and contract administration to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and laws. - Develop key performance indicators to monitor contract administration activities, process payments, and audit as-built records. - Create tools to determine Change Order entitlement and negotiate change orders, including independent estimates for orders over $250,000. - Ensure subordinates maintain required field documentation, construction diaries, and test reports. - Coordinate work with other SPU divisions, City Departments, external agencies, and community stakeholders. - Act as a liaison between consultants, contractors, and the City, and finalize responses to contractor correspondence. - Monitor program budget constraints and incorporate lessons learned into future design packages. - Lead and resource manage construction programs for Capital Improvement Projects, including Green Stormwater Infrastructure, pump stations, pipelines, and bridge projects. - Develop program scopes of work and manage consultant construction support contracts. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in engineering, accounting, business administration, construction management, public policy, or a related field. - Experience: Five years of progressively responsible experience in construction management, operations, administration, project management, or public policy, including two years of experience supervising or managing staff. - Combinations of appropriate education, training, certification, and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Desired qualifications include registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Washington State, Certified Construction Manager (CCM), Project Management Professional (PMP), and/or Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP). - Professional Civil Engineering experience emphasized in Construction Management, including stamping and sealing engineering documents. - Recent experience as a Resident Engineer for large, complex Public Works projects (water, sewer/drainage, solid waste, stream restoration). - Understanding of the CMAA or PMBOK body of knowledge. - Licensing: Current Washington State Driver's License or evidence of equivalent mobility. - Physical and Environmental: Most work is in the field with exposure to weather, traffic, and hazardous substances. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, work nights/weekends/holidays if required, and travel overnight. - Position Transparency: Requires physical presence to visit construction sites and support staff multiple times a week. SELECTION PROCESS Applications will be evaluated based on the minimum qualifications, submitted resume, cover letter, and responses to supplemental questions. Failure to attach the resume, cover letter, or answer the supplemental questions will result in the application not receiving further consideration. HOW TO APPLY - Fully complete the online application before the closing date of 8/18/2026 at 4:00 PM Pacific Time. - Attach a resume and a cover letter addressing your interest in the position and how your education and experience qualify you. - Respond to all required supplemental questions. - For more information, contact John Lee at john.lee3@seattle.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Seattle (Seattle Public Utilities) - Department: Project Delivery & Engineering Branch - Job Type: Classified Civil Service, Regular, Full-Time - Location: Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Ave., Seattle, WA (Hybrid work schedule opportunities available) - Benefits: Comprehensive package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave; medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance; Free Orca Pass; and a City pension plan with employer and employee contributions.
ABOUT THE ROLE The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) Wastewater Planning Section is seeking a highly qualified engineer to manage high-profile projects and implement key initiatives within the Wastewater Department. With a capital improvement program valued at over $1.2 billion over the next ten years, this role involves complex engineering tasks associated with planning facilities for a large wastewater treatment plant and interceptor system, addressing aging infrastructure, and managing emerging nutrient management issues. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead cross-departmental efforts to develop engineering solutions for key initiatives, including nutrient management, new dewatering buildings, and interceptor pipeline construction. - Prepare and implement wastewater master plans, facility plans, and environmental review documentation. - Direct the work of staff, including Assistant and Junior Engineers, and lead interdisciplinary project teams. - Develop and manage the Wastewater Department's capital budget. - Represent EBMUD in external stakeholder meetings and industry associations. - Prepare feasibility studies and engineering financial analyses to support decision making. - Coordinate with outside agencies to protect critical wastewater collection and treatment infrastructure. - Prepare and present project findings, and negotiate agreements with outside agencies and private parties. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A bachelor's degree in an ABET accredited civil engineering curriculum or a California Engineer-In-Training Certificate. - Four years of professional engineering experience obtained after completing the degree, which is equivalent to two years of experience at EBMUD's Assistant Engineer level. - Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered, provided written evidence of relevant employment or coursework is included in the application materials. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - California registration as a Professional Civil or Mechanical Engineer. - Possession of a valid California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. - Highly desirable qualifications include a master's degree in a relevant field and demonstrated experience in project management, wastewater infrastructure planning, design, permitting, and environmental documentation. SELECTION PROCESS Only application materials submitted online during the official filing period will be accepted. Candidates must complete the EBMUD application and all required supplemental question responses to be evaluated. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a completed EBMUD application and supplemental question responses online at www.ebmud.com. - The deadline to submit materials is 4:30 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, with the general listing closing on August 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) - Job Type: Full-Time - Department: Wastewater - Location: Oakland, California - EBMUD is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
ABOUT THE ROLE - The County of San Diego Planning & Development Services is seeking an exceptionally qualified individual for an excellent management opportunity in the Land Development Division. This unclassified management position oversees departmental operations related to land development, planning services, and community sustainability. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Oversee and manage departmental operations within the Land Development Division. - Provide leadership and strategic direction for planning and development services. - Support the County's strategic plan of strengthening communities with innovative, inclusive, and data-driven services. - Specific daily duties and responsibilities are detailed in the official Chief, Departmental Operations job description and job brochure. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Specific minimum qualifications are not explicitly listed in this summary but are detailed in the official job brochure. - Candidates must clearly demonstrate their experience meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire of the application. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Disaster Service Worker: Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, all public employees are designated as disaster service workers and must participate in assigned disaster service activities. - Unclassified Service: Persons serving in this unclassified position do not accrue tenure and serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. - Reasonable accommodation may be made on a case-by-case basis to enable a qualified individual with a disability to perform essential functions. SELECTION PROCESS - Blind Applicant Screening: The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information (name, phone number, address, gender, age, and race) from all recruitments to ensure a fair, equitable, and unbiased evaluation. - The most highly qualified candidates, based on evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application online before the closing date of August 27, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific. - Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible for consideration. - You must detail your experience meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire. - Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Number: 26092707U - Job Type: Regular - Full time - Department: Planning & Development Services - Division: Land Development - Location: 5500 Overland Ave., Suite 370, San Diego, California, 92123 - The County of San Diego values diversity, inclusion, and veteran hiring, offering resources like a Military Skills Translator to assist veterans in transitioning to civilian roles. - Comprehensive benefits and additional employment details are available via the County of San Diego benefits portal.
ABOUT THE ROLE This position works collaboratively within the Capital Projects Engineering Division to execute engineering efforts from planning to completion. Engineers design and construct public works, utilities, transportation, facilities, and water/wastewater infrastructure. Appointment at the Assistant or Associate level depends on the candidate's licensure. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Assist in solving complex technical problems and review work completed by assigned staff. - Review reports and check plans for conformance with design standards, codes, and regulations. - Investigate field conditions and make field inspections of infrastructure under construction. - Respond to public inquiries and complaints via mail, telephone, or at a public counter. - Sign and stamp civil engineering documents, including studies, reports, plans, and specifications. - Administer contracts for construction projects. - Supervise and participate in the preparation of plans and specifications for public infrastructure. - Perform complex calculations and prepare estimates of time, material costs, and feasibility. - Coordinate utility activities with other departments and outside agencies. - Make presentations to the City Council, Board of Public Utilities, and various commissions. - Assign investigation, design, and drafting tasks to technical staff. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Assistant Engineer: Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or a closely related field. Sufficient years of professional engineering experience. - Associate Civil Engineer: Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or a related field. Sufficient engineering experience comparable to an Assistant Engineer. - Knowledge of principles and practices of civil engineering, construction methods, and modern engineering software. - Ability to make complex engineering computations, communicate clearly, and resolve work-related problems. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Assistant Engineer: Possession of an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) Certificate prior to appointment. - Associate Civil Engineer: Possession of a certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in civil engineering in California prior to appointment. - Valid California Class C driver's license and physical capability to operate a motor vehicle safely. - Ability to walk over rough surfaces, climb ladders, and work in various weather conditions during field inspections. - Additional requirements, such as a physical exam or drug screen, may apply. SELECTION PROCESS Applicants possessing the most desirable qualifications will be invited to continue in the process. The selection process consists of an application and supplemental questionnaire review, followed by department selection interviews. HOW TO APPLY Apply online via the City of Santa Rosa employment portal. A thoughtful and thorough Supplemental Questionnaire submission is required. Incomplete responses or responses such as "See Resume" can result in disqualification. Reasonable accommodation requests must be submitted within five business days of being noticed of an event. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Santa Rosa - Department: Transportation and Public Works - Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt - Location: Santa Rosa, CA - Schedule: Flexible 9/80 schedule available with management approval. - Benefits: CalPERS retirement, 12 paid holidays, 1 to 3 floating holidays, $500 annual wellness benefit, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible, competitive leave, and employer-paid vision and dental.
ABOUT THE ROLE The King County Department of Public Defense (DPD) is recruiting 3rd-year law students, judicial clerks, and fellows to begin employment in Fall 2027. DPD provides high-quality legal representation to indigent clients facing criminal charges, loss of family integrity, and involuntary commitment petitions. The agency utilizes a novel case-weight credit model to ensure sustainable workloads and is grounded in anti-oppression principles and equity. Attorneys enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, union support, and extensive courtroom experience backed by a robust team of investigators, paralegals, and mitigation specialists. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide high-quality, client-centered legal representation for indigent individuals, including those with limited English proficiency and disabilities. - Handle all stages of representation from arraignment through trial, sentencing, and select post-conviction motions under a vertical defense model. - Conduct plea negotiations, mitigation, and other case resolution strategies. - Engage in motions practice, including legal research, drafting, and arguing pretrial motions in collaboration with expert witnesses. - Represent clients experiencing mental illness, substance use disorder, and trauma. - Develop and implement effective legal strategies alongside investigators, mitigation specialists, and paralegals. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school. - Must sit for the Washington State Bar Examination in July 2027, or for clerks and fellows, possess admission to the bar in Washington or another state enabling qualification under Rule 8. - Must be at least 21 years old. - Ability to handle 24-hour on-call coverage, which currently requires approximately one week a year or two Saturday calendars a year. - Ability to travel throughout King County to various courts, jails, hospitals, and treatment centers. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must reside in Washington state within a reasonable distance to the King County worksite. - Highly desirable qualifications include proficiency in languages other than English (particularly Spanish), clinical training in public defense, and lived experience with the criminal legal or family surveillance systems. - Subject to DPD Ethical Walls Policies and the Outside Work Policy for Attorneys, which requires supervisor approval for outside employment. SELECTION PROCESS - The selection process includes an evaluation of application materials, supplemental questions, interviews, reference checks, a personnel file review for the last three years, and a background check if applicable. - Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis. - Applications submitted by 11:59 p.m. on September 4, 2026, will receive priority consideration. HOW TO APPLY - Complete an online application at www.kingcounty.gov/jobs, ensuring employment history covers all relevant experience. - Upload a cover letter (maximum two pages) summarizing your experience and how you meet the required qualifications. - Upload a current resume. - Upload a short, self-authored writing sample in .doc, .docx, or .pdf format. - Contact dpd-hr@kingcounty.gov for accommodation requests or alternate formats. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: King County, Department of Public Defense. - Job Type: Career Service (Exec), Full Time, FLSA Exempt. - Union: Represented by SEIU Local 925 (A8A). - Work Location: Hybrid model requiring 4 days onsite per week during the probationary period. Rotations may occur across Seattle, Kent, and Redmond offices. - Benefits: Comprehensive package including a pension plan, holidays, transit pass, generous vacation and sick leave, and training opportunities. - Closing Date: Continuous; the posting may close at any time without prior notice.
ABOUT THE ROLE Provides advanced water quality technical support for King County's stormwater management regulations, programs, and planning within the Water Quality Compliance Unit. Contributes to the development and implementation of the County's Surface Water Design Manual, ensures regulatory compliance with state and federal rules, and fosters innovation in research and technology. Acts as a liaison to the Department of Local Services - Permitting Division and participates in constructability reviews, code revisions, and policy updates. This is an internal transfer opportunity only for eligible King County PROTEC Local 17A bargaining unit employees. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide technical support and create content for the King County Surface Water Design Manual (SWDM). - Stay current with new and emerging stormwater regulations, technology, and research. - Update and facilitate proper application of the County's stormwater design standards. - Provide water quality technical expertise to the section and WLRD teams. - Act as liaison for the SWDM between other King County agencies, assisting with manual interpretation and applicability. - Review drainage plans and lead engineering reviews applying SWDM to development and capital projects. - Perform advanced policy and code analysis and development. - Participate in as-needed constructability reviews for the Stormwater Service's Asset Management Unit. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Current King County PROTEC Local 17A bargaining unit employee eligible for a lateral transfer within the Engineer III classification and having passed probation. 2. Experience reviewing drainage plans and leading engineering reviews that apply SWDM to development and/or capital projects. 3. Advanced policy and code analysis and development skills. 4. Strategic planning and negotiation skills. 5. Skill in working with county leadership and the general public. 6. Competencies in collaboration, decision quality, resourcefulness, optimizing work processes, and situational adaptability. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to the King County worksite. - Must maintain a home workspace with a reliable internet connection and remain available during scheduled work hours. - Washington State driver's license is preferred. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Screening of application materials for clarity, completeness, and alignment with essential qualifications. 2. Panel interviews for selected candidates. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit a complete Online Application with responses to supplemental questions. 2. Attach a Resume. 3. Attach a Cover Letter. 4. Ensure all materials clearly detail how skills and experience meet the minimum qualifications. 5. Contact Isaac Good at (206) 848-0576 or igood@kingcounty.gov for questions, accommodations, or alternate formats. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: King County (Department of Natural Resources & Parks) - Location: Hybrid model (King Street Center, 201 S. Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104 and remote) - Job Type: Career Service (Exec), Full Time (40 hours/week) - Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (occasional early mornings, evenings, or weekends may be required) - FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (overtime eligible) - Union Affiliation: PROTEC Local 17A (C1 : PROTEC17-DES, DLS, DNRP)