Senior Policy Coordinator Washington County's Solid Waste & Recycling (SW&R) Division within Health & Human Services (HHS) is seeking a detail-oriented, collaborative, policy-focused professional to serve as our next Senior Policy Coordinator. This position strengthens the County's regulatory framework, supports complex code and rule updates, manages advisory bodies, and ensures alignment with evolving state and regional environmental policies. This role is ideal for someone who excels at interpreting policy, coordinating regulatory processes, managing stakeholder engagement, and supporting program implementation in a dynamic environment. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Regulatory & Code Management Oversee the updating and administration of County Codes and Administrative Rules for solid waste collection, disposal, nuisance, and noise. Ensure alignment with state and regional requirements; recommend clarity focused updates; and manage full amendment processes, including interested party engagement and presentations to the advisory committees and the Board of Commissioners. Serve as the division's primary resource on rule interpretation, supporting enforcement cases, community inquiries, and official communications, while conducting compliance monitoring and maintaining required records. Periodic Certificate Reviews (Sanitary Service Certificates) Lead the four-year review cycle for all certificated haulers, develop review tools, assess compliance, prepare formal summaries, and present findings to advisory committee. Identify and communicate required corrective actions and support ongoing compliance with County Code 8.04.214.Garbage & Recycling Advisory Committee (GRAC) Management Manage GRAC operations including monthly meetings, special events, member recruitment, onboarding, and tracking. Prepare agendas, staff reports, training materials, and follow up documentation to ensure the committee can effectively advise on solid waste system decisions. Regional & State Policy Engagement Participate in regional and state policy related meetings, work sessions and regional forums. Support County participation in statewide and regional policy development, represent local positions, and prepare materials. Franchise Agreement Management Manage renewal and compliance oversight for Solid Waste Disposal Site Franchise Agreements under County Code Chapter 8.08. Coordinate negotiations, prepare supporting documents, oversee the renewal process, and ensure franchise operations meet regulatory expectations. Division Leadership & Internal Support Contribute to division leadership discussions, represent SW&R in departmental and Board settings, and provide policy insight that supports program development and staff learning. Apply community responsive and inclusive decision-making practices that advance division goals. Supervise staff and provide leadership grounded in: emotional intelligence, self-awareness and humility; active listening and collaborative problem-solving and change management; a steady presence, follow-through and reliability; transparency and clear communication; the ability to make people feel valued and supported; respect for various experiences and perspectives.
Work Schedule:
May be eligible for a hybrid work schedule including remote work. Some evening or weekend work may be needed depending on the business needs. Ideal Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):If you are motivated by public service and community impact this role offers an exciting opportunity. Our work supports fair access to services for all communities and honors the diverse experiences of the people we serve. We strive to build an environment where staff feel respected, heard, and able to contribute fully and we are looking for a leader who shares that commitment. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical, communication, and policy-development skills through a community-centered and inclusive approach. We're looking for someone who is: Skilled in interpreting, applying, and revising regulatory frameworks. Confident presenting complex policy issues to advisory committees, elected officials, and partner agencies. Adept at managing long-term projects with attention to detail and consistency. Comfortable working in a politically visible environment and navigating diverse viewpoints. Effective at building collaborative relationships across internal teams, external agencies, regulated entities, and the community. Motivated by public service, accountable follow-through, and clear communication.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:- Master's degree in environmental management, public policy, or a related field; AND three (3) years of work experience in the environmental field.
- Bachelor's degree in environmental management, public policy, or a related field; AND five (5) years of work experience in the environmental field.
- Associate Degree in environmental management, public policy, or related fields; AND seven (7) years of work experience in the environmental field.
- Nine (9) years of work experience in the environmental field.
- About the Division:
- The Solid Waste & Recycling division is responsible for:
- Regulating and enforcing private-sector service providers that collect, store, transfer, and dispose of solid waste in a franchised/certificated system.
- Enforcing County code related to solid waste, noise and nuisance.
- Developing and implementing services, waste reduction programs, public education and compliance frameworks to serve County-developed initiatives or to comply with regional or state government requirements.
- Planning and coordinating with city partners to ensure compliance with regional and state requirements.
