Senior Connecting Communities Planner – TPS5

Salary : $86,158.00 – $115,920.00 Annually

Location : King County – Seattle – Belltown, WA

Job Type: Full Time – Permanent

Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number: 23DOT-HQ-05251

Department: Dept. of Transportation

Division: Headquarters

Opening Date: 07/03/2023

Closing Date: 7/17/2023 11:59 PM Pacific

Description

About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world’s longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world’s widest tunneling project.

The Opportunity
WSDOT has an exciting opportunity for a Transportation Planning Specialist who wants to have a major impact on improving walking and bicycling conditions in overburdened communities across Washington State. This position serves as the Senior Connecting Communities Planner (TPS5). In this role, you will manage the and associated efforts to provide financial and technical support for active transportation improvements on current and former state highways. This includes planning and leading development and implementation of a new program established by the legislature under Move Ahead Washington, as well as extensive internal and external engagement and communications. The individual in this role will be responsible for the administration of the approach to choosing grantees to support effective sequencing and delivery in the context of other plans and projects, program evaluation and reporting in coordination with other Active Transportation funding programs, and compliance with state and federal laws and regulations in the grantmaking process. As a member of the Active Transportation Division (ATD), the Senior Connecting Communities Planner will work closely with ATD staff overseeing other grantmaking programs and Complete Streets implementation and with WSDOT region staff leading planning and Complete Streets work for state highways. They will align these efforts with the goal of developing and implementing community-led changes to create safer facilities and connections for people walking, biking, and rolling on and across current and former state highways.

What to Expect
The Senior Connecting Communities Planner will implement innovative planning techniques, lead multidisciplinary teams, build collaborative internal processes, manage complex timelines with many inputs and participating organizations, and represent WSDOT externally with local agencies, tribes, MPOs/RTPOs, community-based organizations, and other interested parties. The Senior Connecting Communities Planner provides high-level subject matter expertise related to active transportation and inclusive community engagement essential to fulfill state and federal policy objectives and meet new legislative directives.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Senior Connecting Communities Planner will:

  • In cooperation with Region planners and other agency/modal engagement activities, build relationships in overburdened communities to identify needs for active transportation infrastructure improvements across and along current and former state highways.
  • Administer the SWCC StoryMap, including moderation of comments; synthesize and analyze information received through this and other engagement; identify locations prioritized through community engagement and report findings.
  • Provide subject matter expertise on methods and best practices in environmental justice and community engagement to WSDOT Region practitioners and external partners.
  • Plan and administer development of the Sandy Williams Connecting Communities Program.
  • Provide tracking and reporting as required in the SWCC implementation plan for use in agency-wide reporting for environmental justice, equity, safety performance, and other purposes.
  • Evaluate the SWCC against established criteria, prepare reports to the Legislature, and make program and policy recommendations for improvement.
  • Develop and present trainings and information about active transportation policies, planning, design, operation, and funding programs.

Qualifications
Experience for both required and desired qualifications can be gained through formal professional employment, volunteer experience, lived experience, or a combination.

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

  • A bachelor’s degree involving major study in transportation planning, land use planning, community development, GIS or geography, engineering, public policy, public health, public/business administration, social sciences, economics or natural or physical sciences, or another discipline that, taken in combination with experience, prepares the candidate for the position requirements.
  • One (1) year as a Transportation Planning Specialist 4, Transportation Engineer 4, Landscape Architect 1, or equivalent classification in city or county agencies, tribal government, or the private or nongovernmental sectors; OR two (2) years of experience as an Associate Planner/Transportation Planning Specialist 3 or equivalent.
  • Two (2) years of experience working with active transportation projects, programs, or initiatives (A master’s degree within major study listed above will substitute for one year of this required experience).
  • Knowledge of bicyclist and pedestrian facility and Complete Streets design guidance and recommendations.
  • Expertise providing technical assistance regarding federal, tribal, or state regulations, grant eligibility or similar criteria, or the equivalent in complexity, and reporting on programs and project status in formats that demonstrate compliance with requirements.
  • Ability to use Geographic Information Systems.
  • Ability to use current computer equipment and standard Microsoft Office products, including but not limited to: Teams, Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Ability to lead professional development training and make formal presentations.
  • Experience in community engagement and public involvement involving knowledge and application of creative and effective connections with historically underserved or disadvantaged populations.
  • Evidence of commitment to serving the public, particularly underserved and under-resourced communities, and advancing the intersection of equity and racial justice.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Master’s degree involving major study in transportation planning, land use planning, community development, GIS or geography, engineering, public policy, public health, public/business administration, social sciences, economics or natural or physical sciences, or another field of study that, combined with other experience, prepares the candidate for the position requirements.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification, Road Safety Professional, or another relevant professional credential/certification.
  • Knowledge of the state’s planning processes and relevant statutes and regulations.
  • Knowledge of community design as it relates to land use, connectivity, urban design practices, and analytical tools and techniques that support livable communities.
  • Knowledge of bicyclist and pedestrian network planning approaches.
  • Experience in organizational change/development and multidisciplinary team building.
  • Experience working effectively in or with local government, tribal government, and/or a metropolitan or regional transportation planning organization.
  • Proficient in quantitative data analysis using sources as tools such as StreetLight Data, Inrix, Cube Access, Tableau, Power BI, and/or other geographic and data analytic tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to create graphics, presentations, and documents using common software tools such as PowerPoint and Adobe Creative Suite.

*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes

  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. The official duty station and/or frequency of telework for this positions will be determined based on candidate preference and overall business needs.
  • The salary range listed includes the legislative approved general wage increase of 4%, effective on July 1, 2023 and the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions stationed in King County.
  • In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
  • The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. However, the first review of applications will be conducted July 18, 2023. The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible.
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

  • 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
  • Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
  • Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:

How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

  • An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the “APPLY” button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter via email.

Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Robyn Lovely at Please be sure to reference 23DOT-HQ-05251 in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That’s why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems’ web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01

Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.

  • I have a Master’s degree or higher.
  • I have a Bachelor’s degree.
  • I have an Associate’s degree.
  • I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • None of the above

02

If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, type N/A.

03

Please select the response the best describes your total years of experience as a Transportation Planning Specialist 4, Transportation Engineer 4, Landscape Architect 1, or equivalent classification in city or county agencies, tribal government, or the private or nongovernmental sectors.

  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have 1 – 2 years of this experience.
  • I have less than one (1) year of this experience.

04

Please briefly describe how you obtained the experience referenced in the question above. If you do not have this experience or equivalent experience, please type N/A.

05

Please select the response the best describes your total years of experience as an Associate Planner, Transportation Planning Specialist 3, or equivalent.

  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.

06

Please briefly describe how you obtained the experience referenced in the question above. If you do not have this experience or equivalent experience, please type N/A.

07

Please select the response the best describes your total years of experience working with active transportation projects, programs, or initiatives.

  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.

08

Please briefly describe how you obtained the experience referenced in the question above. If you do not have this experience or equivalent experience, please type N/A.

09

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • COMTO
  • APWA
  • “NOW HIRING” banner/sign
  • Radio advertisement
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)

10

If you selected ‘Other’ on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Job Category
Transportation and Logistics
Job Type
Full Time/Permanent
Salary
USD 86,158.00 - 115,920.00 per year
Country
United States
City
Seattle
Career Level
unspecified
Company
Washington State Department of Transportation
JOB SOURCE
https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/4107117