Sustainability Jobs

Summary

The Office of Sustainability develops and implements projects, programs and policies within the City and community to advance sustainability and environmental stewardship in Issaquah and to achieve the community's interrelated environmental, economic and social sustainability goals. With an updated Climate Action Plan passed by Council in 2026, we have ambitious goals and proposed actions to make a cleaner, greener future a reality. Come work for a small team that is making a big impact in our community!

Working alongside the Sustainability Manager, this position will manage several capital projects, implement internal policies working across departments, apply for and manage grants, and support outreach and education for community programs. Initial work in this position will include management of several capital projects, including solar and EV charger installations at City facilities. Ideal candidates will have strong skills in project management and administration, written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to bring creativity and initiative in carrying out the functions of this position.

Apply if you want to:

• Work for a community that is creating a sustainable legacy for future generations while also honoring its rich history and passion for the natural environment.
• Work in a small, dynamic team that collaborates across city departments and with community partners.
• Apply your passion for local solutions to combat climate change and increase equity.

DISTINGUISING CHARACTERISTICS

This is a single incumbent classification responsible for implementing City sustainability initiatives. Work is performed independently and with limited supervision within policy and program parameters set forth by the Sustainability Manager. The incumbent researches, analyzes, makes proposals or recommendations, and implements programs under the general supervision of the Sustainability Manager.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

• Direct supervision provided by the Sustainability Manager.
• This position will have the opportunity to supervise interns from Gibson Ek High School and/or volunteers

Essential Functions

• Designs, implements, and evaluates programs; identifies needs; collects and analyzes data; sets goals and objectives for programs; designs proposals to respond to identified needs; coordinates and implements programs with assistance of staff, volunteers and/or consultants.
• Coordinates engagement with internal stakeholders to develop program and project awareness; aligns strategies, plans, and actions to create buy-in and drive outcomes.
• Collects, interprets, and analyzes data used to manage and evaluate sustainability programs; prepares reports and makes recommendations for improvement and innovation.
• Conducts program and project research. Researches policy and operational issues, identifies best practices, compiles and prepares reports, and recommends actions to supervisor.
• Prepares correspondence, agenda bills, ordinances, resolutions and related documents for administrative and legislative review.
• Coordinates the work of consultants and assists with consultant management. May manage consultants independently on smaller projects or projects that are limited in scope.
• Administers grant management and reporting; ensures proper reporting and terms and conditions are met.
• Coordinates and implements marketing and outreach plans. Identifies outreach strategies and prepares and coordinates production of outreach materials, press releases, and other communication tools.
• Support events, which may include managing vendors and volunteers, tabling, internal coordination, or other event engagement to support outreach.
• Provides information and educational/technical assistance to other City departments and employees.
• May support the City’s Environmental Board by providing back-up support to the Sustainability Manager, preparing meeting minutes and providing presentations on occasion.
• Fosters a culture of equity and inclusion by recognizing the diverse needs and perspectives of groups and individuals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, environmental sciences, public administration, business, marketing, communications, or related field.
• Two or more years of experience related to environmental or sustainability programs.
• Or any combination of education, experience, and training that provides the knowledge, skills and ability required to perform the job.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The City of Issaquah offers a flexible/hybrid work schedule that allows staff to work remotely. Staff are expected in the office a minimum of 2 days per week. More days may be required depending on department needs. Work is primarily performed in a typical office environment requiring sitting for extended periods of time. Occasionally required to stand, walk. Work requires occasional attendance at meetings or participation in activities outside normal work hours, including evenings and weekends.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Sustainability principles, practices, and implementation including climate change, energy conservation, equity and racial equity, and funding sources for sustainability programs.
• Federal, State and local laws, rules, and regulations applicable to sustainability.
• Current trends in provision of sustainability programs.
• Structure and operation of municipal government principles, practices, procedures and legal requirements and its political environment.
• Sustainability issues on the local, regional, and national level.
• Methods and techniques for community engagement.
• Effective methods for organizing and utilizing data.
• Project management skills.
• Research methods.

Skill in:

• Written and verbal communications.
• Use of computers, computer applications and software.

Ability to:

• Implement sustainability strategies and programs.
• Develop and meet schedules, timelines, work programs and cost estimates.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Speak effectively to small and large groups and to make public presentations.
• Prepare project or program budgets, analyze data, and monitor contracts.
• Write and administer grants.
• Cultivate and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with elected officials, advisory boards, community groups, internal City staff, other agencies, and the general public.
• Be receptive to attitudes, feelings, or circumstances of others and to be aware of the influence of one’s own behavior on the same.
• Build collaborative relationships.
• Negotiate viable solutions under a variety of circumstances.
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.
• Analyze complex issues and impacts and provide clear and concise recommendations and alternative solutions.
• Work independently with little direction in planning, prioritizing, scheduling and organizing work.
• Compile and prepare reports, requests for proposals, and other documents.
• Negotiate and seek creative solutions using good interpersonal skills.
• Show initiative while performing job tasks.
• Remain flexible to changing priorities.

In recognition of the value its employees deliver to the organization, the City of Issaquah offers a generous compensation and benefits package, which includes 12 paid holidays and 2 paid personal holidays per year; vacation and sick leave; medical, dental, vision, and orthodontia insurance for employees and their eligible dependents; optional Flexible Spending Account; Employee Assistance Program; life and disability insurance; wellness program; education tuition reimbursement; deferred compensation options with matching contributions; and retirement benefits through the Washington State Retirement System. The City is a member of the Social Security System.