Planning Specialist

We’re seeking an innovative, forward-thinking professional with a growth mindset - someone who values collaboration, listens to community feedback, and co-creates solutions.

We value transferable skills and lived experience. If you meet most qualifications and are passionate about this work, we encourage you to apply!

Success in this role means:

• * Professional experience in emergency management, planning, project management, or related fields

• * Training or education in emergency management or a related field is beneficial

• * Ability to innovate and improve processes while listening and incorporating feedback from stakeholders and community members

• * Strong written and verbal communication skills to convey complex information clearly

• * Collaboration and teamwork skills to engage diverse partners and integrate equity considerations

• * Project management expertise to balance competing priorities and deliver results

• * Demonstrated commitment to racial and social equity and ability to serve diverse communities with respect and empathy

• * Ability to work evenings/weekends during emergencies and maintain composure under pressure

• * Certifications such as ICS 100/200, IS 700/800, or FEMA Professional Development Series are preferred and may be required within 12 months of hire.

• * A valid Washington State driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 3 months of hire

This full-time, overtime-exempt position is classified as a Strategic Advisor 1, CL&PS, and reports to the Emergency Planning Program Manager.

It is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the City of Seattle and PROTEC17- Strategic Advisor Unit, and is part of the Civil Service.

The full salary range for this classification is $51.88 - $77.82 per hour. After a pay equity and budget analysis, the targeted salary for this role is $125,906.40 annually ($60.30/hr).

Benefits: 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 You can learn more about the City’s retirement benefits by reviewing page 2 of the “2026 Most Employee Benefits-at-a-Glance” guide.

Work Environment: This position offers the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Employees of the Office of Emergency Management are expected to be in-office 3 days per week.

Tuesdays and Thursdays are currently the in-office days for the team. Individual schedules will be based on agreement between the employee and their supervisor.

Why work at the City of Seattle?

At the City of Seattle, public service is more than a job; it’s a chance to shape the future and make a meaningful difference in the lives of everyone who works, lives, or plays in our city.

With 12,000 employees across 40+ departments and 1,100 job titles, we are united by a common purpose: to create a Seattle that is vibrant and welcoming for all.

Whatever your role, you’ll help power a forward-looking city that leads by example — inclusive, innovative, equitable, and community-focused — while joining a diverse team committed to solving challenges and making a lasting impact together.

Join us in building a Seattle where everyone thrives!

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Who may apply: This position is open to all qualified applicants who demonstrate alignment with the skills and experience described above.

The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences.

Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The City encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience.

Accommodations and Questions: We strive to make our hiring process accessible to all.

Individuals with disabilities will be provided reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

Please contact Nicolette.Hornbeck@seattle.gov with any questions or to request accommodations.