Drainage and Wastewater Policy and Programs Advisor (SA1)
Employer City of SeattlePosition Description
Are you ready to shape the future of Seattle’s wastewater systems and help protect vulnerable communities from costly sewer backups?
Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking a Drainage and Wastewater Policy and Programs Advisor (SA1) to lead innovative programs that directly improve public health, equity, and environmental outcomes across the city.
This role offers a unique opportunity to guide high-profile initiatives like scaling up SPU’s Side Sewer Assistance Program—helping low-income homeowners prevent damaging sewer backups while strengthening Seattle’s sewer infrastructure. Your work will influence citywide policy, drive measurable environmental and equity impacts, and position SPU to meet critical regulatory and strategic goals.
Join a team that’s tackling some of Seattle’s most pressing wastewater challenges. As a trusted advisor to executive leadership, you’ll lead program development, manage complex contracts, oversee multi-year budgets, and shape outreach strategies that change how Seattle residents interact with our drainage and wastewater systems.
About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,500 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.
For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout the:
SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.
We know work isn't only about what you do it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:
Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
Generous benefits package
Free Orca Pass
City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
Growth potential and advancement opportunities
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you can expect to:
Advise SPU leadership on drainage and wastewater policies, program strategies, and equity-focused solutions
Lead the expansion of the Side Sewer Assistance Program, including setting policy parameters, eligibility criteria, and performance targets
Develop program budgets, forecast spending, and make recommendations for fund allocation to maximize impact
Manage multi-year contracts with consultants, vendors, and community organizations to deliver program goals
Oversee public outreach and communications, creating strategies and materials to engage diverse communities
Analyze customer feedback, sector research, and stakeholder input to refine policies and measure program success
Represent SPU and the City on sensitive, high-profile issues, providing briefings to executives, City Council, and external partners
Qualifications
Education: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, or a certified equivalency for foreign studies
AND
Experience: 3 years of experience developing public policy, managing programs, and advising senior leadership in a complex organization
Experience/Education Equivalency: In lieu of a Bachelor’s Degree in an accredited program, five (5) years of relevant work experience will be acceptableDesired Qualifications:
- A demonstrated commitment to public and environmental health, race and social equity in your work
- Understanding of utility and wastewater needs, issues, and limitations
- Ability to lead design, delivery, and management of customer-facing programs for diverse audiences
- Ability to produce brief and informative summaries of complex public policy and wastewater issues to managers, executives, and other stakeholders
- Strong technical writing and oral presentation skills, including presentations and recommendations to groups including executive leadership and senior management
- Strong interpersonal skills – ability to understand and appreciate diverse perspectives
- Strong leadership skills – takes initiative, ability to work independently and collaboratively, and problem solve and seek solutions when challenges arise
- Ability to use discretion, good judgement, and confidentiality when handling sensitive matters
Certification/Licensure:- Current Washington State driver's license or evidence of equivalent mobility
Work Environment/Physical Demands:- Work is usually performed in an office environment
Additional Information
This position allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Effective January 2025, City employees have the option to work remotely two days per week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.
Who may apply: The City of Seattle 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. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. 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 full salary range for this position is: $104,567.04 - $156,850.56 AnnuallyHow to Apply:Submit complete City of Seattle online application
Upload your current resume, AND
Include a cover letter that addresses your knowledge, experience, and interest related to this position
*** You must submit both a resume and cover letter. If you do not submit these documents, your application will not be considered. Please ensure that BOTH documents have successfully been uploaded before submitting your application. ***
For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact: Ernest Stephens at Ernest.Stephens@Seattle.gov.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