Posting number: S536 FL CP 0826
Department: Public Works
Division: Administration
Job classification: Special Programs Manager - County-Wide Flood Initiatives Capital Projects Manager
Posting type: Open
Categories: Public Works, Project Management, Program Management
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Whatcom County Public Works Department is seeking an accomplished, strategic, and results-oriented manager to serve as our Flood Initiatives Projects Manager. This is a unique opportunity to play a leading role in one of the County's highest-priority initiatives by transforming long-range flood resilience strategies into completed infrastructure projects that protect lives, property, agriculture, transportation systems, and Tribal resources, and enhances the natural environment.
Flood resilience is among the most important long-term challenges facing Whatcom County. This position provides a rare opportunity to influence the future of the Nooksack River watershed by leading projects that reduce flood risk, protect communities, preserve critical infrastructure, support agriculture, restore habitat, and strengthen partnerships across governments and organizations.
The successful candidate will oversee the implementation of complex flood mitigation and floodplain restoration capital projects throughout the Nooksack River watershed, guiding projects from initial concept through planning, design, environmental review, permitting, funding, land acquisition, procurement, construction, and successful completion.
This position is not simply about managing projects, it is about delivering measurable outcomes. Success will be defined by your ability to move critical flood mitigation projects from planning documents into construction and operation, creating lasting improvements in community resilience and reducing flood risk throughout Whatcom County.
Your work will leave a lasting legacy through projects that improve public safety, enhance environmental stewardship, and build a more resilient future for generations to come.
If you are an experienced leader with the vision, technical expertise, and determination to transform ambitious plans into successful capital projects, we encourage you to apply and become part of Whatcom County's commitment to protecting its communities and natural resources.
As the Flood Initiatives Projects Manager, you will provide the leadership necessary to advance some of the County's most technically challenging and politically significant public infrastructure projects.
Working across multiple County departments and in collaboration with Tribal governments, regulatory agencies, elected officials, consultants, contractors, property owners, agricultural stakeholders, environmental organizations, and community partners, you will work as part of a team to remove barriers, coordinate decision-making, secure approvals, and ensure projects maintain momentum toward implementation.
This position will work closely with the County's existing Flood Planning and Mitigation team to translate flood priorities into successful on-the-ground projects. This is an implementation-focused position for an experienced project manager who knows how to move complex public infrastructure and environmental projects forward. The successful candidate will be comfortable working independently, navigating permitting and regulatory processes, coordinating technical and environmental work, managing consultants and contractors, communicating complex technical information to the general public and elected officials, and resolving day-to-day issues that can prevent projects from advancing.
Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Engineering Geology, Professional Project Management, Capital Project Management, or a related field, and five (5) years of progressively responsible experience leading complex programs, strategic initiatives, capital implementations, or comparable enterprise-level assignments as well as three (3) years of leadership experience directing staff, programs, projects, multidisciplinary teams, or organizational initiatives.
Any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that clearly demonstrates the ability to perform the essential duties of the position may be considered. Experience may substitute for education and education may substitute for experience when appropriate. Substitution does not apply where a specific degree, license, or certification is required by law, regulation, or professional standards.
A Professional Engineer (PE) license is preferred and will be given special consideration.
Additional consideration will be given to candidates holding one or more of the following:
The ideal candidate has demonstrated success managing complex infrastructure or environmental projects involving multiple jurisdictions and regulatory agencies.
Particular value will be placed on demonstrated experience in the following:
Ideal candidates will also possess experience with:
Experience presenting recommendations to executive leadership, elected officials, commissions, boards, and public audiences is highly desirable.
The successful candidate will possess strong knowledge of:
Knowledge of the Nooksack Integrated Floodplain Action Plan and regional flood resilience initiatives is highly desirable.
Candidates must authorize and successfully complete a background check prior to employment.
Candidates must possess a valid driver's license and a driving record that meets County standards at the time of hire and throughout employment.
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Distinguish yourself in public service and make a commitment to our future.
Whatcom County, WA is truly special and a great place to call home!
Apply early for first consideration. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Selected applicants will be contacted to participate in interviews, which are anticipated to begin in mid-November 2026.
For more information about this position, please review the following:
Supervisor: Director, Public Works
Salary Range: Unrepresented - Range 11, $8,093.00 - $11,751.00 per month DOQ
Hiring rate depends on qualifications. This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (approximately 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any negotiated Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).
We are required by State Law to list the full salary range. As a public entity, we are required to make pay decisions based on experience, qualifications, and equity with other employees. Hiring rate typically is limited to entry to mid of the posted salary range, subject to required approvals.
Working Conditions: This position combines office, field, and public meeting responsibilities. The work includes:
Whatcom County offers excellent benefits at no cost to employees, including:
Employment YearAccrual - MonthAccrual - Year1st – 4th year18.00 hours5.4 Weeks5th – 9th year21.33 hours6.4 Weeks10th + year24.67 hours7.4 Weeks
Subject to satisfactory performance this position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (approximately 3.8%), in addition to any approved Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).
WHATCOM COUNTY is a government administration company based out of 311 GRAND AVE, Bellingham, Washington, United States.
