Project Engineer - Washington State Ferries

About WSDOT The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation! Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washington's transportation network. Every year, we carry nearly 20 million passengers across Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on more than 400 sailings a day. Our dedicated teams with over 2,100 people work together to serve our communities and shape the future of ferry travel. The Opportunity WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking a Project Engineer to lead construction project delivery that supports safe, reliable ferry operations. This position provides oversight and coordination to deliver quality projects within scope, schedule, and budget while meeting contract requirements and applicable standards. Working collaboratively with project partners, the Project Engineer helps resolve construction challenges, prioritize safety, and minimize impacts to travelers and the environment. This role offers an opportunity to advance sustainable, maintainable ferry infrastructure that serves Washington’s communities. As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system — guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow Navigate, and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People — there’s never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries. What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Project Engineer will: Oversee construction, interpret plans and specifications, apply laws, codes, and standards, monitor contractor progress, and process progress payments. Plan work and staffing, resolve engineering problems and disputes, and manage project scope, schedule, and budget. Partner with contractors, consultants, and agencies to minimize change orders, delays, and claims while protecting the public interest. Ensure WSDOT, FHWA, and FTA compliance for documentation and approvals, and ensure plans are constructable, permittable, and biddable. Evaluate, negotiate, and approve contract change orders supported by engineering analysis and the public interest. Assess risks and opportunities, develop mitigation strategies, and report progress, significant issues, and recommendations to executive management. Coordinate adjacent projects with local agencies and DOT offices to improve efficiency, minimize customer impacts, and support partnerships. Ensure environmentally responsible project delivery consistent with applicable laws. Uphold WSF’s strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF’s culture through leadership actions Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required : Professional Licensure: Registration as a Professional Engineer in Civil Engineering within the State of Washington. Civil Engineering Technical Knowledge & Application: In-depth knowledge of highway design, Plan, Specification, and Estimate (PS&E) preparation. In-depth knowledge of project delivery methods including design-bid-build and design-build. Understanding of highway construction principles and practices, including field operations and contractor coordination. Knowledge of transportation design principles, common transportation issues, and methods for analyzing and resolving transportation problems. Understanding of programming, budgeting procedures, and legislative processes as they relate to transportation project planning and execution. Project Management & Scheduling : Demonstrated experience managing complex capital transportation projects to meet established scope, schedule, budget, quality, and documentation requirements while managing risks. Demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize limited resources amongst competing priorities. Regulatory, Policy & Environmental Compliance: Familiarity of applicable laws, regulations, permits, and agency policies, including environmental requirements, throughout project development and construction. Ability to integrate compliance requirements into project delivery. Strategic Planning & Resource Management: Demonstrated ability to plan and manage project budgets, schedules, staffing, and consultant resources to deliver capital programs effectively and efficiently. Leadership: Experience leading and supervising professional and technical staff, including providing direction, performance feedback, fostering a culture of accountability and performance, and addressing personnel matters. Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Building: Ability to collaborate effectively with internal staff, external agencies, consultants, contractors, elected officials, and the public to define and deliver project requirements. Communication & Executive Reporting: Demonstrated ability to communicate technical, financial, and schedule information clearly and effectively, including reporting project status to executive leadership. Problem Solving, Decision-Making & Conflict Resolution: Proven ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and implement practical solutions. Skilled in conflict resolution and facilitating constructive dialogue. Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others. Growth Mindset : Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth. It is preferred that qualified candidates also have: Consultant & Construction Contract Management: Experience managing engineering consultants and administering construction contracts. Project Delivery Methods: Experience designing, procuring, and administering transportation projects through design-bid-build and design-build methodologies. FHWA and FTA Process Knowledge: Familiarity with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and FTA processes, procedures, and requirements for delivering federally funded transportation projects. Ability to ensure compliance with federal stewardship obligations, documentation, and reporting standards. Change Management: Demonstrated knowledge and experience managing organizational or project-level changes. Ability to lead teams through transitions in scope, structure, policy, or project delivery approach using effective change management strategies. Public Sector Transportation Experience: Experience delivering capital transportation projects within a public-sector environment. Important Notes This position may be eligible for part-time telework, with the employee expected to work in the office two days per week. The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County. In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements . Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code. WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov Why WSDOT Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year! Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness. Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information. Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT? How to Apply Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date. An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role. Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity. WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter. WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at [email protected] . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-9W087 in the subject line.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washington's transportation network. Every year, we carry nearly 20 million passengers across Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on more than 400 sailings a day. Our dedicated teams with over 2,100 people work together to serve our communities and shape the future of ferry travel.

WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking a Project Engineer to lead construction project delivery that supports safe, reliable ferry operations. This position provides oversight and coordination to deliver quality projects within scope, schedule, and budget while meeting contract requirements and applicable standards. Working collaboratively with project partners, the Project Engineer helps resolve construction challenges, prioritize safety, and minimize impacts to travelers and the environment. This role offers an opportunity to advance sustainable, maintainable ferry infrastructure that serves Washington’s communities.

As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system — guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow Navigate, and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People — there’s never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Project Engineer will:

Oversee construction, interpret plans and specifications, apply laws, codes, and standards, monitor contractor progress, and process progress payments.

Plan work and staffing, resolve engineering problems and disputes, and manage project scope, schedule, and budget.

Partner with contractors, consultants, and agencies to minimize change orders, delays, and claims while protecting the public interest.

Ensure WSDOT, FHWA, and FTA compliance for documentation and approvals, and ensure plans are constructable, permittable, and biddable.

Evaluate, negotiate, and approve contract change orders supported by engineering analysis and the public interest.

Assess risks and opportunities, develop mitigation strategies, and report progress, significant issues, and recommendations to executive management.

Coordinate adjacent projects with local agencies and DOT offices to improve efficiency, minimize customer impacts, and support partnerships.

Ensure environmentally responsible project delivery consistent with applicable laws.

Uphold WSF’s strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF’s culture through leadership actions

This position may be eligible for part-time telework, with the employee expected to work in the office two days per week.

The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.

In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements . Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle.

Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!

Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.

Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at [email protected] . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-9W087 in the subject line.

Led delivery of multiple complex capital transportation projects and had responsibility for allocating limited resources and resolving competing priorities across projects.

Independently managed a complex capital transportation project, including its scope, schedule, budget, quality, documentation, risks, and resources.

Managed a defined phase or work package of a capital transportation project, with overall project decisions made by another manager.

Supported project tracking, scheduling, budgeting, or resource coordination under direction.

No direct experience managing or supporting capital transportation projects.

Directed compliance activities across multiple projects, resolved complex compliance issues, and reviewed others’ work for conformity with applicable requirements.

Independently identified applicable requirements, incorporated them into project delivery, and maintained required documentation and approvals for an assigned project.

Independently completed assigned compliance tasks within an established project compliance plan.

Assisted with compliance research, permit tracking, or documentation under direction.

No direct experience performing transportation project compliance work.

Led coordination among multiple stakeholder groups and negotiated resolution of conflicting requirements affecting project delivery.

Independently coordinated with relevant stakeholder groups to establish requirements, document commitments, and resolve routine coordination issues.

Managed an assigned stakeholder relationship or coordination activity, referring decisions beyond that assignment to the project lead.

Supported stakeholder meetings, information gathering, or follow-up under direction.

No direct experience coordinating transportation project requirements with stakeholders.

Regularly led executive briefings that integrated technical, financial, schedule, and risk information and presented recommendations requiring leadership decisions.

Independently prepared and presented project status reports to executive leadership, explaining variances, risks, and corrective actions.

Prepared project reports or presentations for management, with substantive review by a supervisor or project lead.

Compiled data, updated tracking tools, or drafted portions of reports under direction.

No direct experience preparing or presenting transportation project status information.

Led resolution of complex issues involving multiple parties, evaluated alternatives, negotiated agreement, and directed implementation and follow-up.

Independently evaluated options and implemented solutions within delegated authority, including facilitating dialogue to resolve disagreements.

Analyzed issues and recommended solutions, with decisions and conflict resolution led by others.

Gathered information or supported implementation of solutions under direction.

No direct experience analyzing or resolving transportation project issues.

Independently managed both engineering consultant agreements and construction contracts, including scope, deliverables, payments, compliance, and changes or disputes.

Independently managed either engineering consultant agreements or construction contracts, including scope, deliverables, payments, compliance, and changes or disputes.

Independently administered assigned portions of agreements or contracts, with overall contract authority held by another manager.

Supported contract documentation, deliverable reviews, payment processing, or change tracking under direction.

No direct experience managing engineering consultant agreements or administering construction contracts.

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