Thurston County-Sustainability Specialist (Apply by 11/18/11)

CLOSING DATE:  November 18, 2011, 5 p.m. 
SALARY RANGE:  $4,305.00 - $5,740.00 / month
CONTACT PERSON:
Lauren Spurgeon, Recruiter  PHONE #:   (360) 786-5498
SUMMARY OF DUTIES:
Applicants who previously submitted an application package for this position need not re-apply.  Performs a wide variety of complex and multi-faceted tasks associated with all phases of sustainability planning.  Works with the Board of County Commissioners, the Energy Conservation Committee, and other stakeholders identified by the Board to meet conservation and sustainability objectives of the County.  Drafts sustainability policies and programs for consideration by elected officials, advisory committees, and affected departments.  Develops measures of effectiveness and monitoring regimens that enable the refinement of affected policies, programs, and projects to achieve the maximum desired sustainability benefit.  Researches, analyzes, and communicates on resource conservation, principles of sustainability and related public policies.  Evaluates and develops County regulations and policies, working with the public and elected officials on sustainability
issues, and conducting research and providing detailed staff reports, planning studies, and recommendations.  Designs and develops program’s short- and long-range goals, work plans and objectives with measurable performance standards and financial impacts and tracks program effectiveness.  Develops and manages assigned program budget and approves expenditures.  Researches and identifies grant opportunities in the areas of energy efficiency, clean technology and sustainability; interprets eligibility through grant resources or alternative funding.  Acts as the grant administrator and liaison with the granting agency.  Partners with organizations dedicated to green initiatives and energy/resource conservation.  Works with County offices and departments on the development of County waste prevention measures and conservation contracts.  Organizes training and educational seminars for County employees on energy reduction and sustainability
activities.  Reviews needs assessments and develops resolution to issues.  Analyzes County energy efficiencies and identifies problems/issues, analyzes and evaluates deficiencies, and provides management with alternatives and recommended courses of action.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Resource Conservation, Business or Public Administration, or a closely related field.  Three years of professional level experience in the areas of planning and program development, including resource management, sustainability practices, environmental management systems, community education, and program administration.  Ability to effectively utilize a personal computer and applicable software to perform the essential functions of the position.  Current Washington State Driver’s License or have requested and obtained an appropriate accommodation.
DESIRED SKILLS:
Knowledge of building system components.  Knowledge of grants administration and resource management issues.  Ability to effectively communicate both in writing and orally, including making public or staff presentations.  Ability to communicate effectively among diverse interests and groups.  Ability to independently research and analyze information and to propose programs and projects.  Ability to design evaluation components of programs and projects.  Ability to lead ad-hoc work teams and convene community groups.  Knowledge of the political and organizational structure, management practices and effective public relations.
http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/hr/position-descriptions/SustainabilitySpecialist111811.pdf