Transit Environmental Planner III
- Summary
Metro Transit's Environmental Planning team is recruiting for a Transit Environmental Planner III (SDA/TLT) position to support engineers and transportation planners by applying highly developed environmental planning and technical skills to every Transit capital project and program, including bus bases (new and expanding), passenger facilities, RapidRide, park and rides, and corridor projects. This position will also undertake environmental review of other agencies' projects that have the potential to affect Metro Transit's facilities and services.
A Great Employment Opportunity in Environmental Planning
Joining the Transit Environmental Planning team will be a significant career move for most environmental planners. Our work doubly supports the environmental mission: Not only is every project and program environmentally planned with the best techniques available, but because our cause is public transit and regional transportation, everything we build or plan directly affects the environment. Each construction project and transit program we build or implement is carefully planned to maximize its helpful impact on our region's environment. We are a leader in implementation of LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Green Building standards in not only our office buildings but also our industrial buildings, and we received the 2011 Excellence in Building Green Award for the construction of Metro's Atlantic and Central Base Operations Building.
Who May Apply and Position Information
We are accepting applications from current King County Employees. In addition to filling the current Special Duty Assignment/Term-limited Temporary vacancy, this recruitment may also be used to establish a pool of eligible candidates to fill future temporary vacancies in this classification that may occur over the next twelve months, at the discretion of the hiring manager. This position is anticipated to last up to 12 months on initial appointment, with potential for extension.- Job Duties
Applying equity and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work. As the Transit Environmental Planner III , you will also:
- Act as the environmental technical lead on multiple projects of varying size, complexity, and risk to obtain environmental approvals for Metro Transit capital projects.
- Obtain Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP), and other agency approvals and ensure implementation of mitigation commitments on capital projects.
- Establish environmental project schedules, goals, policies, work plans, and deadlines.
- Manage or oversee internal and/or consultant environmental studies and documentation Ensure environmental permits and approvals are obtained and meet schedules for project design and construction.
- Administer Metro Transit's lead agency role under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) by making threshold determinations for Metro Transit capital projects or programs to ensure compliance with state laws and administrative rules.
- Review and verify environmental information submitted by consultants.
- Provide in-house environmental subject matter expertise to engineering, operational, and planning functions, identifying and implementing solutions to problems related to environmental approvals and permitting.
- Manage consultant experts who perform contract work related to hazardous materials management, storm water, cultural resources, and noise.
- Review other agency projects, policies, or programs for impacts on department operations and functions. Coordinate department, and county-wide comments and draft agency response letters for management signature. Coordinate inter-agency review processes.
- Negotiate the environmental review process and mitigation measures for complex and high-risk agency projects with other departments and jurisdictions.
- Represent the section or division on inter-agency or inter-jurisdictional projects and meetings regarding environmental issues and impacts.
- Assist with developing strategies to facilitate public involvement in the environmental review and planning process. Make presentations to citizen groups and/or agencies or jurisdictions on environmental projects, processes, and outcomes. Respond to requests for information by governmental planning and regulatory agencies. Prepare summaries of complex technical information and findings for non-technical audiences.
- Demonstrate a commitment to equity and sustainability. Promote an equitable, diverse and inclusive work environment and support diversity and inclusion goals.
- Work with staff to develop and implement policies and procedures for environmental review and compliance. Make recommendations to management on budgetary, staffing, and other internal agency needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Planning or related field, and progressive experience OR any combination of education and experience that provides the ability to perform the duties of the position.
- Advanced knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations, including the Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and proficiency in their application.
- Advanced knowledge of regulatory performance standards and measures (including field equipment) used to determine environmental impacts and conditions associated with transit facilities or operations, particularly air and water quality, noise levels, and traffic congestion and proficiency in their application.
- Advanced knowledge of analytical methodologies, current FTA guidance on NEPA, environmental assessment guidelines, and GIS-based programs.
- Knowledge of cultural resource protection laws and the Model Toxic Control Act (MTCA).
- Knowledge of project management practices.
- Knowledge of local government budgeting, procurement, and local environmental procedures.
- Knowledge of technical, engineering, and/or scientific disciplines related to public facilities and infrastructure.
- Knowledge of government contracting and federal grantee responsibilities.
- Skill in leading and/or providing direction to staff.
- Skill in evaluating technical concepts and making recommendations.
- Skill in conflict resolution.
- Ability to work well and respectfully with people from diverse cultures and socio-economic backgrounds.
- Ability to motivate others to initiate and/or take action.
- Ability to perform research and data analysis.
- Ability to think conceptually, observe and evaluate trends, and to analyze and draw logical conclusions.
- Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to work independently and as a team member.
- Demonstrated proficiency with business applications, such as Microsoft Office suite.
- Master's degree in Environmental Planning or related field.
- Supplemental Information
Ready to Apply?
Complete an online application at www.kingcounty.gov/jobs and answer the supplemental questionnaire. You are also required to attach a resume and a writing sample. For the writing sample: please attach a work sample of your writing, preferably no more than two pages in length that is related to an environmental topic such as NEPA/SEPA, environmental permitting, cultural resources, USTs, storm water, etc.
NOTE: Please answer ALL questions in the online employment application itself, with each of your jobs during the last 10 years listed (listing each position for each employer separately), duties explained, reasons for leaving etc. Applications that are not complete, or do not include all required materials may be rejected as incomplete, and not advanced in the process. Applicants who are unable to apply online should follow the instructions under Application Tips and FAQs at www.kingcounty.gov/jobs.
Selection Process
The online employment application, answers to the supplemental questions, resume and writing sample will be evaluated for qualifications, written communication skills, clarity and competitiveness. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in a test and one or more panel interviews. Employment offers will be finalized only after candidates have successfully completed reference checks.
Work Schedule
This position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not eligible for overtime pay. A typical work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Alternative work schedules may be considered. Work outside of the normal workday is required periodically.
Temporary Telecommuting Requirement
The work associated with this position will be performed remotely, at least through July 5, 2021 in compliance with King County’s telecommuting mandate. It is possible that the work will be primarily performed remotely on an ongoing basis after July 5, 2021.
Employees will be provided with a County issued laptop and must maintain a workspace with an internet connection where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours. Employees must reside in WA state and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements. There will be situations where the employee is required to report to a County worksite. Please note that when an employee conducts work that is likely to bring them in contact with another individual, safety precautions are required by the department in alignment with the Public Health Directive from the Seattle & King County Public Health Officer.
To support employees during this time King County has a robust collection of tools and resources to support working remotely. The individual selected for this opportunity will be joining an innovative and progressive team. King County is doing its part to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and remains committed to reducing our carbon footprint.
Competitive Benefits
King County provides our employees with a free transportation pass (good on Metro, Pierce, Community, and Sound Transit) and a competitive benefits package (see Benefits tab for more details). For additional information, regarding benefits please visit: www.kingcounty.gov/employees/benefits.
Union Membership: This position is represented by the Technical Employees Association.
Class Code: 2423300 (Transit Environmental Planner III)
Questions about this recruitment? Contact Angela Alcaraz, HR Analyst, 206-263-2466, aalcaraz@kingcounty.gov
Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles--we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
To Apply
If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions please contact your recruiter listed on this job announcement.
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage: King County pays 100% of the premiums for eligible employees and family members
- Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents
- Retirement: King County employees are eligible to participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan
- Transportation program and ORCA transit pass
- 10 paid holidays each year (plus 2 personal holidays)
- Generous vacation and paid sick leave
- Paid parental leave, family and medical leaves, and volunteer leave
- Flexible Spending Account
- Wellness programs
- Onsite gyms and activity centers
- Employee giving program
- Employee assistance programs
- Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position
- Training and career development programs
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails. Also, in the event of any incorrect information in this document, applicable laws, policies, rules, CBAs, or official plan documents will prevail.
NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position. Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
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01Did you complete all portions of the application and attach the required resume? Applications that are not complete, or do not include all required materials may be rejected as incomplete, and not advanced in the process.
- Yes
- No
02Please also attach a work sample of your writing, preferably no more than two pages in length that is related to an environmental topic such as NEPA/SEPA, environmental permitting, cultural resources, USTs, storm water, etc. Did you attach the work sample?- Yes
- No
03Are you applying to this position as an eligible Current or Previous King County Employee Priority Placement Program Participant AND Is this position the same or lower percentage of full-time when compared to the position held at the point of the notification of layoff AND Do you possess the skills and abilities to qualify for this position?- Yes, I was given a layoff notice from my role at King County AND I am within two years of the effective date of my layoff. AND The position I was laid off from was the same or a higher percentage of FT status when compared to this one.
- No.
04If you answered yes to the question above and you are applying for this position as a Priority Placement Participant, to be considered, you must provide the following three pieces of information in the space provided: 1. The title you held when you received your layoff notice 2. The department you worked in 3. The effective date of your layoff05A Bachelor's degree in Environmental Planning or related field, and progressive experience OR any combination of education and experience that provides the ability to perform the duties of the position are required qualifications. Please indicate which best describes your qualifications for this position:- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Planning or related field, and progressive experience
- Combination of education and experience that provides the ability to perform the duties of the position
- None of the above
06Please select which of the following additional minimum requirements you meet. (Check all that apply)- Advanced knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations, including the Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and proficiency in their application
- Advanced knowledge of regulatory performance standards and measures (including field equipment) used to determine environmental impacts and conditions associated with transit facilities or operations, particularly air and water quality, noise levels, and traffic congestion and proficiency in their application
- Advanced knowledge of analytical methodologies, current FTA guidance on NEPA, environmental assessment guidelines, and GIS-based programs
- Knowledge of cultural resource protection laws and the Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA)
- Knowledge of project management practices
- Knowledge of local government budgeting, procurement, and local environmental procedures
- Knowledge of technical, engineering, and/or scientific disciplines related to public facilities and infrastructure
- Knowledge of government contracting and federal grantee responsibilities
- Skill in leading and/or providing direction to staff
- Skill in evaluating technical concepts and making recommendations
- Skill in conflict resolution
- Ability to work well and respectfully with people from diverse cultures and socio-economic backgrounds
- Ability to motivate others to initiate and/or take action
- Ability to perform research and data analysis
- Ability to think conceptually, observe and evaluate trends, and to analyze and draw logical conclusions
- Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing
- Ability to work independently and as a team member
- Demonstrated proficiency with business applications, such as Microsoft Office suite
- I do not meet any of the minimum qualifications listed
07Do you have a Master's degree in Environmental Planning or a related field?- Yes
- No
08I certify that the statements made by me on the application and supplemental questions are, to the best of my knowledge, true, complete and correct. I understand that any misrepresentation or material omission of fact on this or any other document required by King County may constitute grounds for rejection, or if employed by King County, for disciplinary measures, including dismissal.- Yes
- No
Required Question