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Departmental Relations and Strategic Initiatives Advisor
Seattle Public Utilities
Original Job Summary
Position Overview
The Departmental Relations and Strategic Initiatives Advisor role at Seattle Public Utilities is focused on advancing long-term strategies, resolving critical issues, and building strong relationships across City departments and regional stakeholders. You will negotiate sustainable agreements and serve as a trusted policy strategist to navigate interdepartmental challenges in infrastructure, climate adaptation, and equity.
About Seattle Public Utilities
Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community centered utility that partners with the community to manage water and waste resources equitably. Serving 1.5 million regional customers, SPU is committed to high quality, reliable, and cost-effective utility services.
Why Join Us?
- Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
- Hybrid work schedule
- Generous benefits package and city pension plan
- Opportunities for growth and advancement
- Robust public transportation options
Job Responsibilities
This role requires balancing day-to-day responsiveness with long-term planning, shaping systems, and managing change to improve SPU’s effectiveness. Responsibilities include:
- Negotiating strategic agreements to foster citywide solutions
- Facilitating Joint Executive Team agenda setting and issue resolution
- Representing SPU interests in cross-departmental teams
- Developing joint project partnerships with regional stakeholders
- Project management of emergent policy and coordination priorities
Qualifications
Candidates must have at least five years of progressively responsible experience in government, utilities, or related fields along with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline. A strong background in negotiation, policy strategy, and stakeholder management is essential.
Work Environment
This position is typically office-based with a hybrid schedule requiring in-office presence 3 days a week.
Key skills/competency
- Negotiation
- Strategic Planning
- Policy Development
- Project Management
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Problem Solving
- Collaboration
- Change Management
- Analytical Thinking
- Communication
How to Get Hired at Seattle Public Utilities
🎯 Tips for Getting Hired
- Customize your resume: Emphasize policy, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement.
- Research Seattle Public Utilities: Understand their mission and community focus.
- Highlight relevant experience: Focus on government and utility roles.
- Prepare for behavioral interviews: Showcase problem-solving and collaboration.