Senior Program Manager - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Senior Program Manager – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Salary: $7,537 – $10,050 per month. This position will remain open until filled. Initial application review date will be September 19, 2025. The Thurston County Commissioners Office reserves the right to close the recruitment at any time.

The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Senior Program Manager will develop, manage, and coordinate activities related to racial equity in Thurston County. Responsibilities include planning, designing, implementing the DEIA Action Plan, policy development, goal setting, business analysis, community planning, program evaluation, and serving as an advocate for the public on racial equity issues. The role also supports the Human Resources Department in creating an internal culture of equity, inclusiveness, and engagement.

• Provide consultation and guidance to the County Manager and lead equity and inclusion projects.
• Support County Commissioners, County Manager, and Racial Equity and Inclusion Council with best practices.
• Anticipate and address communication needs for equity initiatives.
• Collaborate with Human Resources to develop training on equity and inclusion for supervisors and managers.
• Create and evaluate training programs that enhance awareness of equity and cultural proficiency.
• Assist HR with updating personnel rules to reflect equity best practices.
• Support county offices with outreach strategies to engage underrepresented communities.
• Administer assessment tools, analyze data, and present reports to the Board of Commissioners and REIC.
• Conduct community outreach, host events, and promote civic engagement.
• Advise the Board and REIC on policies that advance racial equity.
• Partner with community allies to secure resources and funding for Resolution No. 15995.
• Analyze county and community activity to support decision‑making based on equity and racial justice.

• Quiet office environment in Olympia, Washington.
• Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–5:00 pm with potential alternative schedules or 1 day remote.
• Occasional travel for meetings, conferences, and training.
• Daily interactions with county staff and the public.

Thurston County is a rapidly growing organization at the intersection of change and development. Our new Racial Equity Council and collaborative approach to working with departments reflect our commitment to equity and inclusion.

• Work‑life balance with flexible schedules.
• Retirement plan and pre‑tax savings accounts.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Robust training program and professional development.
• Flexible spending accounts and deferred compensation options.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

We encourage candidates who meet the minimum qualifications to apply. We value learning on the job and are focused on finding the best fit for the role.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; experience may substitute education on a year‑for‑year basis.
• At least six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in public program and policy development at a regional level, including work with elected officials.
• Demonstrated competence in public policy development, administration, and staff supervision.
• Current Washington State driver’s license or appropriate accommodation.
• Proficiency with personal computer and related software.
• Depending on assignment, a specialized certification may be required.

• Master’s degree in Business Administration or related field.
• In‑depth knowledge of planning and public policy at the regional level.
• Ability to design innovative programs and projects.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong leadership, project management, and prioritization abilities.
• Critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Capacity to build relationships with elected officials and the community.
• Ability to interpret complex policies and laws.

• Create an environment where employees can express needs and learn from mistakes.
• Engage sensitively with diverse backgrounds and identities.
• Maintain a positive,…