Assistant State Construction Engineer (WMS3)

State of Washington
Olympia, Washington
Full Time

Email Address

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Salary

$114,504.00 - $146,784.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

25DOT-HQ-0W451e

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

07/01/2025

Closing Date

7/22/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Benefits
Questions

Description

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 world's 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.

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at .... Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-0W451e in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

Please select the response the best describes your total years of experience as an Assistant Project Engineer.

I have over eight (8) years of this experience.
I have 7 - 8 years of this experience.
I have 6 - 7 years of this experience.
I have 5 - 6 years of this experience.
I have 4 - 5 years of this experience.
I have less than four (4) years of this experience.

In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

Please select the response the best describes your total years of Professional Engineering experience as a Project Engineer or equivalent in the highway/heavy civil construction industry as a project manager, resident engineer, or principal engineer.

I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
I have 7 - 10 years of this experience.
I have 5 - 7 years of this experience.
I have 3 - 5 years of this experience.
I have 2 - 3 years of this experience.
I have less than two (2) years of this experience.

In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.

I have a master's degree or higher.
I have a bachelor's degree.
None of the above

If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.

Do you have an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification?

Are you a registered Professional Engineer in Washington State?

Yes
No, I am a registered Professional Engineer in another state and am able to obtain licensure in Washington State within six (6) months of employment.
No

Please select all the following you have working knowledge of: