What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Engagement Coordinator position at City of Seattle?
THE DEPARTMENT
The Seattle Department of Neighborhoods (DON) is responsible for strengthening Seattle by engaging all communities. Our purpose is to bring government closer to Seattle residents by engaging them in civic participation, empowering them to make positive contributions to their communities, and increasing the involvement of Seattle’s Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities in civic discussions, processes, and opportunities.
THE JOB
We are recruiting for two Community Engagement Coordinators, one to serve North Seattle and the other the downtown core (including Chinatown International District, Pioneer Square, and SODO). Your job will include sharing information, engaging with the community, and gathering feedback to inform City of Seattle issues, projects, and programs. Your work will include providing community support, capacity building, customer relations, and constituent casework.
In your assigned region, your focus will be on:
- Building and strengthening relationships with neighbors, businesses, and organizations, and becoming a valued and available resource
- Collaborating with the Mayor’s Office to collect and share feedback, coordinate walking tours with executive leaders, and ensure timely responses to community inquiries and concerns
- Participating in, organizing, or facilitating community meetings, discussions, and events to help neighbors problem-solve issues or brainstorm opportunities
- Sharing information regarding potential and actual emergencies, and providing support during activations of the Emergency Operations Center
To be successful, you are committed to:
- Building trust and fostering relationships with a wide range of partners internally and externally
- Inspiring collaboration and bringing people together around shared goals
- Connecting Seattle communities with City resources, prioritizing Black, Indigenous, and People of Color
- Supporting or serving as a liaison to the Civic Engagement Commissions
To be effective, you have:
- Strong ties and relationships within either or both assigned regions
- Established trust, credibility, and developed effective working relationships that helped you work with and motivate others
- Excellent active listening and communication skills, especially in making complex information accessible and relatable
- Designed and carried out community engagement and outreach strategies with a focus on equity and inclusiveness, bringing the voices of historically underrepresented communities into conversations
- Strong facilitation skills, and the ability to navigate complex environments, “read the room” and adjust appropriately
- Successfully managed multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
In addition to the qualities mentioned above, you will need to possess the following required qualifications (or a combination of education and/or training, and/or experience that provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class):
Four years of experience in planning and research related to land use, urban economics, human services, environmental issues, conservation, or other work directly related to City planning and development work
OR
Three years of experience in planning and research related to land use, urban economics, human services, environmental issues, conservation, or other work directly related to City planning and development work, and an associated degree in planning, urban design, environmental studies, public administration, or a related field
OR
Two years of experience in planning and research related to land use, urban economics, human services, environmental issues, conservation, or other work directly related to City planning and development work, and a bachelor's degree in planning, urban design, environmental studies, public administration, or a related field
This job is classified as a Planning & Development Specialist II and is represented by a Collective Bargaining Agreement with PROTEC17. The 2026 the salary range is $49.25 - $57.31. New City employees start at Step 1, in a 5-step salary schedule. Personnel Rules will determine the salary placement of current regular City employees.
This position offers the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Individual schedules will be based on agreement between the employee and management.
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
In addition to completing the application atwww.governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle fully, please attach:
- A PDF of your current resume
- A cover letter explaining how your experience and skills align with this job with the Department of Neighborhoods
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 with an opportunity to explain or correct background information.
Why Work for the City of Seattle? At the City of Seattle, public service is more than a job; it’s a chance to shape the future and make a meaningful difference in the lives of everyone who works, lives, or plays in our city. With 12,000 employees across 40 departments and 1,100 job titles, we are united by a common purpose: to create a Seattle that is vibrant and welcoming for all. Whatever your role, you’ll help power a forward-looking city that leads by example — inclusive, innovative, equitable, and community-focused — while joining a diverse team committed to solving challenges and making a lasting impact together. Join us in building a Seattle that thrives!
This position is open to applicants who meet the minimum qualifications. The Department of Neighborhoods 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, medical condition, or pregnancy. The Office of Planning and Community Development 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.
Accommodations:
Individuals with disabilities will be provided with reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please get in touch with Kate.Moore@seattle.gov for questions or to request accommodations.
Salary : $49 - $57