Director - Permitting Divison

About the Team

The Department of Local Services is dedicated to shaping how communities grow by balancing efficiency, equity, and environmental stewardship. We are committed to fostering Equity, Racial, and Social Justice in every aspect of our work, striving to dismantle systemic barriers and celebrate the distinct experiences of our people and the communities we serve. Forbes has named King County one of Washington State's best employers, recognizing our leadership in changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence.

We are building a welcoming community where every person can thrive. Our workforce is guided by principles of being one team, solving problems, focusing on the customer, driving for results, being racially just, respecting all people, leading the way, and acting as responsible stewards. We value diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and we encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply.

About the Role

As the Division Director for the Permitting Division, you will lead a high-impact team at the intersection of land use, development, and public service. This role exists to modernize permitting systems and improve outcomes for residents and businesses alike. You will set the strategic direction for the division, ensuring alignment with Department goals and the needs of unincorporated King County communities across urban, rural, and resource land contexts.

In this position, you will partner across agencies, jurisdictions, and communities to deliver clear, customer-focused services. You will serve as the primary executive representative, engaging with County leadership, elected officials, tribes, and the development community. Your work will involve guiding organizational and technology modernization efforts to enhance efficiency and sustainability while ensuring consistent, lawful interpretation of County codes. You will foster a culture of accountability and collaboration, developing leadership staff and establishing performance standards that prioritize timeliness, quality, and transparency.

Hiring Process

The recruitment process for this position includes the following steps:

1. Initial Screening: Applicants must submit a King County application, including a resume and cover letter summarizing how they meet the experience and qualifications.
2. Virtual Interview: Candidates who pass the initial screening will be invited for a 45-minute virtual interview during the week of June 8th.
3. Meet & Greet & Final Interview: Candidates advancing past the first round will participate in meet-and-greets with community members, employees, and business partners, followed by an in-person final interview during the week of June 15th.

For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact Robert James at 206-263-9414 or robert.james@kingcounty.gov.

Equal Opportunity & Culture

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 recruitment, hiring, promotion, and compensation.

We are committed to workforce equity through equitable recruiting, support, and retention to obtain the highest quality workforce in our region. We actively encourage applications from Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people living with disabilities, and veterans.

Work Environment

This position is designated as Mission Critical, meaning employees are expected to provide, maintain, and re-establish essential county functions during emergencies or inclement weather unless otherwise directed. The work week is normally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though occasional work outside normal business hours may be required. The team works in the office four days per week to foster connection and responsiveness.