Senior PlannerCode Writer (Planner 3)

This position is primarily remote with the option to work in the office. Attendance at required in-person meetings and occasional travel to various work sites businesses and meeting locations is also expected.

Why Its a Great Opportunity:

In this role with the Long Range Planning Division you will be part of a dynamic team working on drafting and delivering significant code packages. You will have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of topics including agriculture tourism pre-approved accessory dwelling units short-term rentals complete streets design standards environmental regulations related to the Shoreline Master Program and much more. You will work closely with staff in the Development Services Division and understand customer issues and parts of the Pierce County Code in need of improvement. You will have the opportunity to engage with other divisions across Planning and Public Works and interact directly with the Executives Office and Council staff in relation to the preparation of and submission of code packages.

Check out some of our work here: Comprehensive Plan.

Why Its a Great Department:

Planning and Public Works (PPW) stewards a healthy and vibrant community by collaboratively planning and investing in our people infrastructure systems and policies. PPWs team has more than 800 members that collaborate innovate and inspire in performing essential services to the community. The department is responsible for the County road and levee systems sewer systems airports ferries building permits environmental review sustainability community planning and code enforcement - just to name a few!

Learn more about Planning and Public Works at to be Successful in the Role:

Our team is looking for a seasoned code writer to lead our legislative staff oversee the review and submission of multiple code packages and bring thoughtful expertise to revising the Pierce County Code. Significant experience reviewing projects and writing code in a city or county setting is highly valued. Additionally you will be skilled in project management development of policies and procedures and navigating multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Collaboration on previous large projects involving multiple stakeholders will be key. You will have extensive experience with Word and writing and editing large documents. Finally you will have interest and knowledge in legislative processes and community service-oriented values.

Your Future in this Role:

You will have an opportunity to work alongside a diverse and talented team of PPW professionals agencies and community leaders to support planning activities by problem-solving and developing innovative solutions to ensure the best services possible for the citizens of Pierce County. Your work will directly shape how Pierce County communities grow by developing foundational guiding policy documents that guide County programs and plans over time.

Throughout the onboarding process you will meet with the County Planning Manager regularly to discuss expectations and set goals for yourself as well as introduce you to the current policies and procedures technology/software and Pierce County Code.

Core Daily Responsibilities:

• Interpret local state and federal laws regulations and guidelines as they relate to assigned responsibilities and stay abreast of various legislative changes.
• Perform research prepare special studies write reports collect and analyze various statistical and/or technical data to apply to a wide range of planning functions.
• Work with others across departments and organizations on the development of various plans.
• Effectively persuade inform educate train solicit information motivate and direct a wide variety of individuals or groups.
• Participate in and lead the preparation and presentation of reports and information and present to County Officials departments external entities and the general public regarding a wide range of planning functions and other related areas.

A classification description with a more detailed list of essential functions can be found here.

• Additional education or experience may substitute for the recruiting requirements
• Bachelors degree in planning or related field
• Three years of related planning work

• Please attach a current resume and cover letter with your application. Failure to attach these will result in an incomplete application

Preferred Qualifications:

• A Masters Degree is preferred

• Current planning project review and writing experience with substantial code packages

Special Requirements and/or Qualifications:

• AICP Certification or the ability to obtain it within a year

As a condition of employment the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.

To be considered for this opportunity please:

• Complete and submit an online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting APPLY above or go to: you have a question about this opportunity please email the Recruitment Team at and specify the Job Number and Title.
• If you do not have internet access you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers.
• Individuals needing accommodation in the application testing process or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at at least two days prior to the need.

We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.