HUMAN SERVICES DIRECTOR
City of Auburn, WA

First Review: May 10, 2026
Salary Range: $188,605 - $231,843 annually DOQ

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Job Description
Health & Welfare Benefits

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The City of Auburn, WA is seeking a Human Services Director to serve this dynamic community situated in the fertile Green River Valley, about 30 miles south of Seattle. Auburn combines small-town character and historic roots with a strong industrial base and regional connectivity—all amid stunning views of Mount Rainier. 
 

THE CITY OF AUBURN

Incorporated in 1891, the City of Auburn serves a population of approximately 90,000 across nearly 30 square miles, spanning both King and Pierce Counties. Auburn operates under a strong-mayor form of government with a 2026 budget of $290 million and a team of 490 FTEs. Auburn is part of a region recognized for its robust network of human services, strong public health infrastructure, and collaborative, forward-thinking approach to addressing homelessness and community well-being. 
 

THE HUMAN SERVICES DIRECTOR 

As a cabinet-level position, the Human Services Director leads Auburn’s Human Services Department and serves on the Mayor's citywide leadership team. The Director also oversees a regional partnership of South King County jurisdictions focused on housing stability and affordability. The Human Services Department plays a central role in supporting vulnerable residents and strengthening community well-being in Auburn. It works collaboratively with nonprofit partners and regional jurisdictions to deliver a broad range of services focused on reducing poverty, preventing homelessness, and promoting housing stability. The department operates with a budget of $2.5 million and a team of seven FTEs. 
 

WHY APPLY

Auburn’s Human Services Director position offers a unique opportunity to lead a major Puget Sound city’s coordinated and compassionate response to homelessness while also supporting a comprehensive regional strategy. Located between Seattle and Tacoma in the shadow of Mount Rainier, Auburn is a full-service city with nearly 500 employees and is increasingly recognized as a regional model for its approach to housing stability and mental health support. This is an excellent opportunity to join a dedicated and professional team and drive lasting change to end homelessness both within the city of Auburn and across the region. 
 

For questions on this position, please contact:

Debbie Tarry
GMP Consultants
dtarry@gmphr.com
(425) 308-2957