Marine Project Engineer

About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, 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

WSDOT is currently seeking a Marine Project Engineer to lead the planning, development, and lifecycle management of the terminal electrical infrastructure required to support Washington State Ferries (WSF) transition to a zero-emission ferry fleet. Serving as both project manager and technical expert, this role will oversee the design, integration, and commissioning of medium-voltage electrical systems at 16 ferry terminals to enable charging for up to 22 hybrid-electric vessels. The position is responsible for managing key contractors, including the Terminal Electrical Equipment Provider/System Integrator and the Vessel Charging System Provider, and coordinating efforts across internal teams and consultants. This role is integral to advancing WSFs core values and strategic priorities through active leadership, technical excellence, and commitment to public engagement and environmental innovation.

As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow, and Navigate and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People theres never been a more meaningful time to join us.

What to Expect

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

• Verify conformity of contractor work products to contract requirements.
• Negotiates contract change orders and approves payments for work accomplished.
• Manage the engineering efforts and contractor engineering support team.
• Review engineering drawings, calculations, and plans.
• Review all contractor furnished material and equipment.
• Monitor and manage project status.
• Supervises the inspection program and technical consultants.
• Uphold WSFs strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSFs culture through leadership actions.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required :

• Thorough working knowledge of:
• Medium voltage shoreside power systems
• Electrical and mechanical control systems
• Contract management
• Project management
• Costing, pricing, and budgeting
• Reading and interpreting technical specifications drawings and plans
• Conversant with modern civil construction materials and techniques.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulatory requirements, e.g., National Electrical Code & Washington Administrative Code, and permit compliance.
• Familiarity/working knowledge of industry standards, including ANSI, IEEE, and IEC.
• Sound and independent professional decision making and proven problem-solving skills.
• Ability to understand and interpret electronic and printed material.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with Microsoft Office suite and knowledge or ability to learn databases.

AND one of the following:

• Bachelors degree from an accredited college in electronic or electrical engineering, or allied field AND three (3) years of experience managing engineering projects and design.

OR

• Five (5) years of experience (military, commercial, or safe/federal government service) in positions responsible for design, integration, repair, overhauls, or renovation of medium voltage electrical equipment.

OR

• Five (5) years of experience of State service as a Construction Inspector Marine OR Three (3) years as an Inspector Specialist Marine.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Professional Engineers License, Electrical Engineering.
• PMP Certification
• Vessel marine electrical system experience

Important Notes

• The salary listed includes the legislative-approved 5% salary premium for positions with an assigned duty station in King County as well as a general wage increase effective July 1, 2025.
• 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 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 a 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 your 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. 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 for 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

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