Strategic Public Safety Policy Leader

King County; Seattle (WA); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

King County seeks a Public Safety Policy Lead Advisor to support Executive Zahilay. The role steers policy for public safety, partners with departments and community organizations, and translates policy into actionable programs that reduce crime and promote equity.

Reporting to the Director of Policy and Innovation, this leader will guide policy direction, manage major initiatives, and build trust with a broad range of stakeholders across the county.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in policy or public policy roles impacting public safety.
• Experience with criminal legal system collaboration and victims advocacy groups.
• Ability to facilitate challenging conversations with multiple perspectives.
• Proven track record translating policy into measurable results.
• Commitment to transparency, equity, and service excellence in government.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Executive’s broader public safety policy priorities.
• Lead key public safety projects, including gun violence prevention and alternative response programs.
• Align policy development with discharge, re-entry, and community care systems.
• Build trusting relationships with community-based organizations and partners.
• Represent the Executive in community safety policy meetings and working groups.
• Coordinate policy work with CSR and the Community, Service and Response Director.
• Translate policy into implementation and measurable results.

Skills

Policy leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Facilitation

Analytical skills

Written & verbal communication

Relationship building

Project management

Equity & accessibility

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in public policy / related field

Job description

King County seeks a Public Safety Policy Lead Advisor to support Executive Zahilay. The role steers policy for public safety, partners with departments and community organizations, and translates policy into actionable programs that reduce crime and promote equity.

Reporting to the Director of Policy and Innovation, this leader will guide policy direction, manage major initiatives, and build trust with a broad range of stakeholders across the county.