Division Manager - Natural Resources & Current Planning job in Bellingham

Whatcom County Planning and Development Services (PDS) is looking for a Natural Resources (NR) and Current Planning (CP) Division Manager who is a progressive, forward-thinking leader who likes to delve into complex development issues and find innovative solutions. This individual will manage the planning and natural resource review process while implementing provisions of state and federal mandated requirements including the Growth Management Act (GMA), Shoreline Management Act (SMA) and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). The ideal candidate is a collaborative, creative problem solver who possesses strong technical and interpersonal skills. This important position provides strategic oversight and leadership to the NR & CP Divisions. The successful candidate will report to the Director and work with the leadership team to maintain the highest level of customer service to the public and other agencies.

Key duties include:

Overseeing Current Planning and Natural Resources Divisions, ensuring timely, accurate and complete information on work product, projects and programs.

Managing the critical area and current planning permit review approval processes, including implementation of decisions and instructions resulting from hearings, appeals processes and actions of the County Council.

Implementing provisions of local, state and federally mandated planning requirements and administering applicable regulations through coordination within the department, with other county departments and outside agencies.

Providing policy and technical guidance to staff, departments, commissions, elected officials, and the public to ensure compliance with statutory requirements and regulations. Providing progress reports and analyzes the effectiveness of the operations and activities of the divisions.

Serving as the County’s State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Official, overseeing environmental impact review and compliance with related RCW’s, WAC’s and County Code.

Establishing the procedures and recommends administrative policy for the efficient and effective operation of the permit review process to produce productive exchange of information involving current planning and natural resource approvals and reports, and providing general information to the customers and public. Responding to concerns and issues, and determining appropriate resolutions to maintain positive internal and external customer relations.

Responsible for managing and overseeing natural resource planning issues, including applicable watershed planning and stormwater management implementation efforts.

For more information please review the following:
•Division Manager Job Description
•Recruitment Brochure
•Planning & Development Website

Qualifications:

Requires a bachelor’s degree in Planning or field related to Natural Resources and Current Planning

5 years of progressively responsible related experience including two years of supervisory or lead experience.

A master’s degree is preferred.

Requires educational specialization in the area of urban planning; environmental sciences, studies or policy; wetland ecology; geography; geology; biology; freshwater studies; hydrology; forestry; land use; public administration or a closely related field.

Requires knowledge of:

Natural resource statuelopment Services Websitetes in the Washington Administrative Code and Revised Code of Washington, Growth Management Act, Shoreline Management Act, State Environmental Policy Act, and forest practices.

County land use, critical areas, shoreline and stormwater regulations.

The impact of current state legislation on local planning and critical area permit issues and a thorough, detailed knowledge of Washington’s critical area growth management laws and/or similar environmental management laws and legislative impacts in other states.