Assistant State Construction Engineer (WMS3)

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 seeking a strategic and innovative leader to serve as the Assistant State Construction Engineer for the Construction Division. This critical role will direct and provide support, guidance, decisions and approval to multiple regions, including ten Construction Project Engineers, on issues affecting the administration of WSDOT construction projects and will guide and assist in the resolution of disputes on construction contracts. In this role, you will also develop and prepare new and/or modify department policy to incorporate current state-of- the- art technology, practices, and procedures related to the construction of WSDOT infrastructure. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong organizational leadership, project and program management expertise, technical proficiency in transportation engineering, and a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant State Construction Engineer will:

• Maintain communication with industry to assess specification effectiveness and implement new products/materials research.
• Develop new and revised specifications, policies, and procedures; and assist in the dissemination of specifications to all statewide offices.
• Provide direct monitoring and oversight of activities in assigned field offices and assigned regions.
• Approve/disapprove change orders for construction contracts that are beyond the authority of the regions.
• Provide troubleshooting services to region managers and project engineers such as expert engineering assistance and the coordination of construction support resources.
• Assist in training and insuring compliance with associated programs.

Qualifications

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

• Engineering Knowledge/Licensure : A Professional Engineer License (Civil) in Washington State. The ability to independently evaluate technical alternatives and make sound engineering decisions under constraints. Demonstrated applied knowledge of civil engineering principles, particularly in the design, construction, and maintenance of highway and heavy civil infrastructure. Proficient in interpreting and applying AASHTO and ASTM standards.
• Construction Methods and Practices : Proficient in modern construction practices, sequencing, and quality assurance protocols for large-scale public works. Familiar with materials testing, inspection procedures, and field problem-solving during construction.
• Contract Administration : Ability to apply principles of contract management, including preconstruction planning, submittals, change orders, pay estimates, and project closeout. Knowledgeable in the use and interpretation of construction documents, including plans, specifications, and schedules.
• Construction Law and Regulations : A solid understanding of applicable state and federal public contracting laws, including bidding processes, procurement policies, and compliance mandates. Knowledge of construction law principles and legal frameworks governing public infrastructure projects. Demonstrated working knowledge of OSHA and state L&I (Labor & Industries) safety regulations and the ability to apply best practices for workplace safety, job hazard analysis, and regulatory reporting.
• Dispute Resolution : An understanding of the fundamentals of alternate dispute resolution (ADR), including disputes review boards, mediation, and arbitration in construction settings. The ability to participate constructively in conflict mitigation and claim resolution processes. Skilled in negotiating contracts, change orders, and resolutions to disputes with contractors and stakeholders.
• Project Management : Skills to effectively manage project scope, schedule, and budget using recognized project management methodologies. Skills to communicate technical information clearly to diverse audiences, including contractors, stakeholders, and public officials and to prepare clear, concise reports, correspondence, and presentations.
• Technical Competency: Proficient in relevant engineering and construction software (e.g., Primavera P6 scheduling software, and document control platforms). Skills to use general computer applications (Microsoft Office Suite or equivalent) effectively in professional tasks.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Knowledge of design process, construction support resources, environmental permits, cultural resources process, maintenance and traffic operations, and Legislative process.
• Skills to:
  • Issue guidance and make determinations on the interpretation of contract documents
  • Coach, mentor and develop department employees and contractor managers
  • Advise region construction personnel and other WSDOT personnel on construction engineering and claims issues
  • Prepare effective presentations
  • Perform cost evaluation/validation of changes to contracts

Important Notes

• The salary range listed includes the 3% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2025.
• This position requires the ability to traverse uneven terrain when conducting visits at construction sites.
• 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.
• This position requires frequent instate travel with occasional out-of-state travel to include overnight stays.
• 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.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. 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 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. 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-HQ-0W451e in the subject line.