Policy Change Director jobs in Washington

Here is more about what you’ll be doing:  

Champion equity.  Apply a racial equity and social justice lens to ensure that SPD's practices align with Seattle's goals of public safety and constitutional policing, particularly for BIPOC communities historically impacted by biased policing. Recognize and address institutional and structural racism within government. 

Transformational, strategic thinking and policy expertise.  Navigate a politically sensitive environment with multiple priorities and tight deadlines. Advise the CPC and Executive Director on community input for reforms promoting constitutional policing. Develop, analyze, and present policies and recommendations required by CPC's governing ordinance to various stakeholders, including community members, City Council, partner oversight agencies, and state and federal partners. 

Team leadership and collaboration. Lead and supervise a dedicated team of policy analysts to oversee and gain community input on police accountability. Actively support and cultivate the team’s leadership and growth. Provide hands-on support to the team as needed.  

Policy development, research, and analysis.  Conduct legal research on various sources pertinent to policing, public safety, and relevant technology policy, including community expertise, peer-reviewed research, evaluations, and best practices. Compile, organize, analyze, and interpret data, presenting findings to internal and external audiences. Stay abreast of policy issues and legislation at local, state, and federal levels, as well as emerging issues in other jurisdictions. 

Communication and outreach.  Address inquiries from constituents, accountability partners, and Seattle City Council members and staff. Effectively communicate verbally and in writing with the public, stakeholders, and agency staff. Prepare speeches, talking points, and issue briefings on policy areas. 

You will be successful in this job if you are committed to: 

• Public service and have an appreciation for robust discussion and willingness to work hard to accomplish important goals 

• Racial and social justice, equity, and supporting the power of communities to forge their own solutions and work towards achieving anti-racist policies 

• Formulating innovative solutions to complex, sensitive challenges in collaboration with community partners and organizations 

• Building strong working relationships with the CPC Executive Director, Commissioners and staff, City Council, accountability partner agencies, and community 

You will be most effective in this job if you have: 

•  A policy background and expertise in policing, public safety, or another municipal or state policy area

• Strong understanding of the Seattle Consent Decree, 2017 Accountability Ordinance, constitutional policing, and the unique monitoring system in place in Seattle, including the community's role in police reform 

• Significant experience in policy and technical writing, policy review and analysis, management, and budgeting. Legal and/or legislative training or experience is advantageous

• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to decipher complex issues using an equity lens

• Proven ability to build successful working relationships, demonstrate excellent cross-cultural social skills, and effectively connect with community members and organizations 

• Outstanding organizational, project management, and communication skills, both written and verbal

• Demonstrated ability to understand and effectively interpret municipal, state, and federal laws

• Demonstrated ability to handle complicated, controversial situations calmly and respectfully, maintaining confidentiality and responding thoughtfully 

• Track record of reliability, hard work, cooperative style, and self-driven accomplishment

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint, Outlook, or similar tools 

• Advanced training and education in a related field is beneficial 

Application Process: 

Applications will be accepted until 4:00pm Pacific Time on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. In addition to completing the application at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle fully, for your application to be accepted, you must: 

• Attach a resume detailing your relevant talents, training, and experiences. 

• Attach a cover letter that describes your interest in the position and motivation to support the work of CPC. 
  

This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records in compliance with Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information.  

Who may apply: This position is open to all candidates who demonstrate alignment with the skills and experience described above. 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 experiences. 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 City of Seattle is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to diversity in the workplace. Accommodations for people with disabilities are provided on request. The City is a Drug Free Workplace. 

Questions? Please contact Nicolette Hornbeck at nicolette.hornbeck@seattle.gov