Criminal Legal Policy Lead for Equity & Innovation

King County, WA; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Flexible schedules

Job summary

King County is seeking a Criminal Legal System Policy Lead Advisor to Executive Zahilay. The role sits within Policy and Innovation, coordinating with sheriff, detention, public defense, and courts to translate policy into action across the criminal legal system.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in policy, a JD preferred, and a track record of delivering measurable results, equity, and cross-sector collaboration. This role requires in-person presence at least three days a week.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in policy/public policy affecting the criminal legal system, preferably in Washington.
• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school preferred.
• Proven ability to translate policy into measurable results.
• Commitment to transparency, equity, and service excellence in government.
• Experience engaging stakeholders including elected leaders, legal professionals, community organizations.
• Strong relationship-building with elected officials, senior leaders, strategic partners.
• Excellent analytical and written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with follow-through and accountability.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement Executive’s broader policy priorities across public safety and the criminal legal system.
• Coordinate efforts across criminal legal systems in King County; monitor policy.
• Collaborate with Sheriff’s Office, Detention, and Public Defense to implement priorities.
• Engage with King County Superior Court and Prosecuting Attorney’s office on policies.
• Liaise with Office of Law Enforcement Oversight (OLEO).
• Represent the Executive in meetings and working groups on policy.
• Support cross-department collaboration to advance equitable policies.
• Work with Policy and Innovation leadership to integrate policy into strategy.

Skills

Policy leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Education

Juris Doctor (preferred)

Job description

King County is seeking a Criminal Legal System Policy Lead Advisor to Executive Zahilay. The role sits within Policy and Innovation, coordinating with sheriff, detention, public defense, and courts to translate policy into action across the criminal legal system.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in policy, a JD preferred, and a track record of delivering measurable results, equity, and cross-sector collaboration. This role requires in-person presence at least three days a week.