Strategic Initiatives Project Manager (PPM III) - Internal Only

King County•Seattle, WA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

This opportunity is open to current King County employees. We are not accepting external applications at this time. In addition to the current opening, this recruitment may be used to establish a pool of qualified candidates to fill future Project/Program Manager III vacancies within the Parks Division over the next six (6) months. King County Parks is seeking a Strategic Initiatives Project Manager (Project/Program Manager III) to join the Parks Division Director’s Office team! This position will be responsible for managing complex internal and external-facing projects. We are seeking someone who is passionate about parks and recreation, skilled at collaboration, is highly organized, and has excellent communication and interpersonal skills. About the Role: The Strategic Initiatives Project Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering a diverse portfolio of projects that vary in scope, size, and complexity. Projects will be high visibility, involve multiple internal and external stakeholders, and require strong judgment, communication skills, and the ability to anticipate and manage risk. This role ensures projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget while maintaining a high standard of quality, accountability, and public transparency. This position follows a hybrid work model, blending remote and in-person work. About the Team: The Parks and Recreation Division Director’s Office is a fast-paced, dynamic work environment! Individuals interested in joining our team must be committed to racial, social and economic equality for all people in King County. King County Parks' mission is to steward, enhance and acquire parks to inspire healthy communities, and with 205 parks, 28,000 acres of open space, 215 miles of backcountry trail, and 175 miles of regional trails, King County Parks offers close-to-home recreational experiences for everyone. Commitment to Equity, Racial and Social Justice: King County, named after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is a diverse and vibrant community that represents cultures from around the world. Our True North is to create a welcoming community where everyone can thrive. We prioritize equity, racial and social justice, making it a foundational and daily expectation for all employees. As a Strategic Initiatives Project Manager, you will actively apply these principles in all aspects of your work. Learn more about our commitment at http://www.kingcounty.gov/equity . Apply now for a rewarding career at the King County Parks Division of the King County Department of Natural Resources & Parks (DNRP). Join our talented workforce in protecting and restoring the natural environment and promoting more resilient, sustainable, and equitable communities. Enjoy training, comprehensive benefits, and growth opportunities.

Requirements

Experience managing projects of varying sizes and complexity, with demonstrated success in delivering high visibility or community impact projects.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences.
Ability to balance multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain professionalism under pressure, and adapt to changing priorities.
Experience leading and working with multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the King County Parks and Recreation system (trails, open space, active parks) and operations procedures.

Responsibilities

Manage key division projects, including the development of project charters, work plans, schedules and ensure projects align with business needs and organizational goals and objectives.
Research, gather and evaluate information to support the development of key projects.
Prepare and deliver clear visual and written materials for project updates, presentations, and reports geared towards internal leadership and public audiences.
Support continuous improvement by documenting lessons learned and recommending process enhancements.
Facilitate effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders, including leadership, elected officials, community groups, and cross departmental teams.
Establish effective working relationships with people inside and outside the division including co-workers, customers, the public, government agencies, other departments, and other external sources.