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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the worlds widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking an experienced and motivated engineering professional to serve as a Project Engineer in our South Central Region (SCR). In this role, you will manage an engineering project office that includes engineers, technicians, and administrative staff, be responsible for ensuring the successful delivery of Improvement, Preservation, and emergency contracts through all phases of the construction process. In addition, this position may also manage projects through their planning, scoping, design, and contract preparation phases. As a Project Engineer, you will play a key role in delivering high-impact projects across the SCR. This expansive region includes Asotin, Benton, Columbia, Franklin, Garfield, Kittitas, Walla Walla, and Yakima counties, as well as portions of King, Lewis, and Whitman countiestotaling over 3,111 lane miles of highways, 460 bridge structures, and 5 safety rest areas. This is an excellent opportunity to lead high-impact projects and contribute to the safe and efficient movement of people and goods across Washington State.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Project Engineer will:
- Manage an office of professional and technical engineers for the delivery of assigned Capital Improvement Preservation Program (GIPP) projects.
- Certify, by use of professional engineer's stamp, that all WSDOT and federal standards and policies were followed in the development of all design documents, plans, and specifications including change orders to contacts.
- Strategically plan the budget, schedule, and workforce necessary to deliver GIPP projects (up to several years depending on complexity).
- Collaborate with outside agencies, consultants, public entities, stakeholders, and internal departments in the development and implementation of project management plans.
- Provide expert technical direction and mentoring on the most complex of construction and design issues.
- Mentor and develop employees; perform supervisory duties for office employees including assigning work, evaluating performance, coaching, training, and taking corrective action.
- Communicate effectively to contractors, agencies, tribes, media and the public; serve as the point of contact for assigned projects.
- Facilitate agreements between competing interest groups and regulatory agencies, including real estate interests considering the long-term goals of the agency; employ negotiation and problem-solving skills to resolve conflicts.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required :
- Licensure Licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Washington. A valid drivers license and the ability to travel to project locations throughout the region as needed.
- Engineering Knowledge/Education that provides a thorough understanding of engineering principles, construction practices, and transportation infrastructure.
- Technical and Project Leadership Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams and managing transportation projects through planning, design, and construction phases. Proven ability to interpret and apply engineering standards, specifications, and contract requirements.
- Project Management and Delivery ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering projects on time and within budget. Experience with scheduling, resource allocation, and cost tracking to meet program goals.
- Effective Communication and Collaboration strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills to engage with internal teams, contractors, stakeholders, and the public. Capable of representing the agency in meetings and on project sites.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Extensive experience with a cross section in all discipline areas of WSDOT and/or the transportation industry, with increasing levels of responsibility.
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 3% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2025.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- Travel throughout the State, and occasionally outside of the State may be required.
- This position requires a Professional Engineers License issued by the State of Washington. License holders from other states will be expected to obtain a WA State PE license within six (6) months of appointment.
- 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.
- The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. However, the first review of applications will be conducted June 24, 2025 . The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible.
- 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.
- 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 or 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 of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may 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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, at ... . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-SCR-5W008 in the subject line.