Criminal Legal Policy Leader — Strategy & Impact

King County; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Career development

Leadership growth

Job summary

King County is seeking a Criminal Legal System Policy Lead Advisor to help shape policy direction across public safety and the criminal legal system. Reporting to the Director of Policy and Innovation, this role partners with departments and community partners to translate policy into actionable programs.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in policy work, a JD preferred, and a demonstrated ability to engage diverse stakeholders, deliver measurable results, and advance equity and transparency in

Qualifications

• 8+ years in policy roles impacting the criminal legal system, preferably in Washington state.
• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school preferred.
• Proven ability to translate policy into measurable results.
• Strong equity, transparency, and service excellence in government.
• Experience engaging elected officials, legal professionals, and community groups.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Executive’s broader policy priorities across public safety and the criminal legal system.
• Coordinate efforts across criminal legal systems (law enforcement, courts, jails) in King County.
• Collaborate with Sheriff’s Office, detention, and public defense to advance policy priorities.
• Engage with the Superior Court and Prosecuting Attorney’s office on policies.
• Serve as the Executive’s liaison to the Office of Law Enforcement Oversight (OLEO).
• Represent the Executive in policy meetings and cross-functional groups.
• Support cross-department collaboration to advance equitable policies.

Skills

Policy leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Policy translation to implementation

Analytical writing

Relationship building

Public safety policy

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Juris Doctor from an accredited law school

Job description

King County is seeking a Criminal Legal System Policy Lead Advisor to help shape policy direction across public safety and the criminal legal system. Reporting to the Director of Policy and Innovation, this role partners with departments and community partners to translate policy into actionable programs.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in policy work, a JD preferred, and a demonstrated ability to engage diverse stakeholders, deliver measurable results, and advance equity and transparency in