Departmental Relations and Strategic Initiative...
@ Seattle Public Utilities

Seattle, WA
$130,000
On Site
Full Time
Posted 1 day ago

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XXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX******* @seattle.gov
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Job Details

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.

📝 Interview Preparation Advice

Technical Preparation

Review public policy frameworks.
Study interdepartmental negotiation techniques.
Analyze case studies on utility management.
Familiarize with data analysis tools.

Behavioral Questions

Describe a challenging negotiation.
Explain your problem-solving process.
Discuss how you manage change.
Share a teamwork success story.

Frequently Asked Questions