Seattle’s Human Services Department (HSD) connects people with resources and solutions during times of need so we can all live, learn, work, and take part in strong, healthy communities. HSD is seeking a seasoned professional with extensive policy experience to join the Director’s Office. The Policy Advisor shall support and enhance HSD’s policy efforts, with cross-departmental impact and an initial emphasis on areas related to public health, behavioral health, and substance use disorder. This position reports to the Senior Policy Advisor and is housed in the department’s Leadership and Administration work unit. They will interact with various HSD staff, other members of the Executive and Legislative departments, staff from other municipalities and from community-based organizations, and members of the public. The Policy Advisor will contribute to HSD’s work across various complex policy issues related to human services.

Brief and advise department staff, as needed, on priority and emerging policies; provide regular and ad hoc updates on ongoing initiatives, programs, and investments.

Perform all-source research and due diligence on policy assignments -- quickly become knowledgeable on emerging topics.

Learn the political landscape on assigned policy and provide pertinent information for decision making on high-profile or potentially controversial issues.

Develop, document, and follow standard work practices to support coverage of projects and focus areas.

Work closely with HSD’s Legislative and External Affairs team and other subject matter experts (SMEs on accurate messaging and strategic communications in response to media requests.

Produce written products including policy briefs and options analyses, research memos, and presentations that concisely and clearly describe complex analyses and policy recommendations for a variety of audiences including executives, elected officials, community leaders, colleagues, etc.

Use judgment to meet assignment objectives by deadline; ensure appropriate contributors and reviewers are involved for final approval.

Build strategic and authentic relationships with diverse constituents.

Represent HSD’s interests and serve on a variety of cross functional, department, and/or jurisdictional teams.

Organize, prepare for, and facilitate effective meetings on a variety of topics, some of which may involve participants with different political/financial interests, timelines, and priorities; follow up and coordinate others’ follow-up after these meetings as needed.

Support the development, execution, and monitoring of HSD service contracts, including work with both internal and external stakeholders.

Monitor and analyze legislation and potential legislation with bearing on HSD operations and/or priorities.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree (or a combination of education and/or training and/or experience that provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class) and five (5) years of experience with leadership, public policy, planning, and strategic development.

Desired Qualifications:

Two (2) years of experience with high level public policy.

Experience with the City of Seattle political practices and political environment, including legislative and budget processes.

An understanding of best contracting practices and an ability to represent and support the City’s position in contract negotiations.

A well-developed understanding of racial equity and experience leading projects and/or implementing policies that integrate racial equity into policy and practice.

Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, creativity, and strong attention to detail; must be able to convey complex information in a manner that informs diverse audiences or a specific target audience.

Ability to synthesize quantitative and narrative information, for instance by tying investments to concrete outcomes and describing the impact of those outcomes

Ability to multitask and work under tight deadlines that may require evening or weekend work and/or attention during scheduled time off, as well as creatively solve problems.

Ability to identify and navigate competing interests across multiple teams. Engage stakeholders in a manner that reflects partnership and respect while centering HSD priorities and investments.

An understanding of the principles of data-driven service delivery, particularly as it relates to tracking and reporting on investment outcomes.

Advanced degree in Public Health, Social Science, Public Administration, political science, or a related field.

The full salary range for this classification is: $54.60 - $81.93 Hourly.

Your application will not be reviewed if these items are missing or incomplete.

Hiring Process

Your application will not be reviewed if these items are missing or incomplete.
Applications are reviewed after the posting closes. Qualified candidates must submit the following to be considered:

1. Completed NEOGOV online application.
2. Current résumé indicating relevant experience and education.
3. Cover letter describing how your skills and experience align with the stated job responsibilities and qualifications.

Offers of employment are contingent on verification of information provided by the applicant as part of the application process, which may include a detailed background check, pre-placement physical exam, and/or full driver's abstract, dependent upon position.

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

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Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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