Position description
At the Port of Seattle, we anticipate making salary offers between the minimum and the market reference point of the salary range. Offers will be based on the skill, knowledge, and experience a job candidate brings to the job and is consistent with other employees performing the same or similar work.
Some of what you’ll be doing:
As the International Protocol Specialist, you will assist the Manager of International Relations & Protocol in all aspects of supporting the Port of Seattle’s engagement with foreign dignitaries, trade missions, business delegations, and other international stakeholders. In particular, you will take the lead on coordinating arrivals and departures for international government officials traveling through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), including managing logistics with airport staff as well as partnering with key federal agencies and other relevant stakeholders.
In addition, you will be engaged in a wide range of other international protocol activities, including but not limited to:
- You will oversee event logistics for hosting international VIPs and delegations at the Port of Seattle. This includes creating briefing memos, drafting talking points, preparing gifts and flags, and presenting overviews during meetings.
- You will be responsible for coordinating follow-up activities after Port meetings with international stakeholders, such as sending thank-you letters, preparing summary reports, managing photos, and handling other related activities.
- You will support the Manager of International Relations & Protocol as requested with tasks such as research and memo writing, managing international archives and relevant photos, and organizing the Port’s supplies of international gifts and flags. In particular, you may help to prepare Port leadership, including Commissioners and Executives for their international travels, through memos, meetings, and protocol lessons.
- You will assist the Manager of International Relations & Protocol in coordinating with regional partners related to planning for major international events happening in Seattle, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- You will represent the Port, as required, at local events, including receptions, dinners, and gatherings with prominent international associations and dignitaries. In specific cases, you may also travel internationally on behalf of the Port, mainly when accompanying Port leadership during their trips.
Who you are:
- Experienced – You have three (3) years of experience working with international stakeholders, particularly foreign government dignitaries and diplomats.
- Desired –We hope you have a thorough understanding of international business practices and cultural protocols and a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, International Business, Public Policy, or Public Administration. We also hope you have a familiarity with customs, social hierarchies, gift-giving traditions, and business etiquette in countries where the Port does or plans to conduct business, with a specific emphasis on Asian countries. While knowledge of relevant foreign languages is beneficial, it is not mandatory.
- Committed to Equity – You will apply equity and exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices in all aspects of the work. At the Port of Seattle, equity is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all Port employees.
- Foster Relationships – You will establish connections with both internal and external stakeholders. Your strong written and oral communication skills will be essential. Additionally, you will handle interactions with foreign dignitaries and delegations while respecting cultural boundaries. Your ability to discern and deploy appropriate protocol and social skills will be crucial when interacting with international audiences.
- Agile – You showcase adaptability by meticulously attending to details, managing multiple requests in a dynamic business setting, and adeptly handling shifting priorities.
- Flexible – You are willing and able to adjust on the fly to changing circumstances and demands, including when arriving or departing dignitaries are travelling not during regular business hours.
- Tech Savvy – You demonstrate proficiency in using office software, including the Microsoft Outlook suite (including PowerPoint), online platforms like Microsoft Teams and Zoom, as well as Adobe products. Additionally, you have the capacity to learn other technology tools and applications used at the Port.
What else you need to know:
- Work Schedule – Your normal work schedule will be Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (40 hours per week), although this can change week to week based on the flight schedules of arriving and departing dignitaries. To that end, flexible start and end times are available in this role. You may be required to work any and all assigned shifts, including weekends and holidays. You may be required to work during emergencies. Non-traditional schedule and travel may be required.
- Work Environment – You will primarily work in an office environment and in the airport’s International Arrivals Facility. This work will take place in a hybrid/in-office setting at Management’s discretion.
Washington State Residency Requirement – Employees must establish a residence in Washington state within 30 days of their first day of employment and must maintain a residence in Washington State during their employment with the Port of Seattle. If a position is eligible to telework, work performed while teleworking must be performed in Washington State. - Overtime Eligible – You are eligible for overtime pay in this role.
- Security Requirements – As the successful candidate, you must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check as well as a criminal history background check with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Your employment will be contingent upon obtaining a Port of Seattle ID badge and a CBP Customs Seal upon clearance.
Why you’ll love it here:
The Port of Seattle offers an extensive benefits package that rewards our staff for their valuable contributions towards the Port‘s mission. In addition to the summary below, benefit details for non-represented positions can be found on the Port of Seattle‘s website. If the position is represented by a union, please refer to the “Collective Bargaining Agreement” or contact the appropriate Union Representative for specific information related to benefits and eligibility.
- Healthcare – Medical, Dental, and Vision Care with options that work for you and your family.
- Paid Vacation – Just about four weeks per year that increases with tenure to rest and rejuvenate.
- Paid Sick Leave – At least one hour of sick leave for every 40 hours worked.
- Holidays – More than ten days per year to celebrate with family and friends away from work.
- Pension/Retirement Plans – A pension and additional savings plans to prepare for your future after the Port.
- Getting to Work – Eligible for free or subsidized parking at your primary Port work location, validated parking for official Port business at alternate locations, as well as a low-cost public transit card.
- Parental Leave – Six weeks of paid leave to spend with new additions to your immediate family.
- Development – From tuition reimbursement, training, stretch assignments and internal internships, we support a learning culture.
- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion – The Port of Seattle values diversity as a source of innovation and strength. We are actively working across the organization to create a culture where all employees – regardless of race, gender, and other identities – succeed and reach their fullest potential.
- Work-Life Balance – We provide the resources to help you create habits to be healthy and balanced.
- Mission Driven – We are focused together in promoting economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.
Application instructions
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