IT Project Manager - Senior/Specialist

Salary : $99,300.00 - $133,608.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-04849
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 07/09/2026
Closing Date: 7/19/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking an experienced and collaborative IT Project Manager (Senior/Specialist) to join the Technology Services Division (TSD) Enterprise Implementation Services team. This subdivision is responsible for planning, architecting, and delivering enterprise technology solutions that support WSDOT programs statewide through services including Enterprise Architecture, IT Project Management, Business Analysis, Organizational Change Management, Project Quality Assurance, and Technology Vendor Management. Within the Enterprise Implementation team, the Enterprise Technology Project Management Office (ETPMO) provides oversight and implementation support for complex, high-risk technology initiatives in accordance with Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech), Office of Financial Management (OFM), and WSDOT technology policies and standards. In this role, you will lead medium to large-scale enterprise technology projects, establish project management best practices, support technology procurements, and help ensure the successful delivery of critical business and technology solutions across the agency.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the IT Project Manager (Senior/Specialist) will:

• Independently analyze the business requirements, resources, and the proposed solution, and develop an initial project budget and project work plan and provide them to TSD management.
• Independently analyze the proposed scope, schedule and budget.
• Facilitate the establishment of a Project Steering committee ensuring composition from IT Business Customer management, TSD management personnel and Stakeholders.
• Establish and lead project team meetings to manage the progress of the team throughout the duration of the project.
• Continuously monitor and measures project team execution of assigned tasks; identify reports and escalate, as appropriate, any deviations from the approved scope, schedule, and budget.
• Coordinate project team activity with external entities to ensure compliance with mandatory design and code reviews, and work with project SMEs, ensure and document project compliance.
• Lead the TSD development and coordination efforts for Request for Proposal (RFP)/Request for Quotation
• (RFQ)/Request for Information (RFI) (Collectively RFx) acquisition process with the agency's Administrative Contracts Office.
• Independently establish and facilitate risk management, issue resolution, and formal change control processes.
• Advise, facilitate, and ensure WSDOT TSD Business Customer compliance with applicable Revised Code of Washington (RCWs), and Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech) Policies, Standards, and Guidelines.

Qualifications

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

Project Management

• Comprehensive, advanced understanding of project management principles, standards, and best practices (e.g., PMI PMBOK, Agile) typically obtained through formal education and progressive professional development.
• In-depth knowledge of project lifecycle phases, knowledge areas, project budgets, risk management, governance, and quality assurance processes.
• Ability to independently analyze business requirements, develop project documentation, and manage project scope, schedule, and budget.
• Proficiency in using project management software and tools to track progress and ensure project alignment with organizational goals.
• Capable of leading project team meetings, monitoring progress, and ensuring compliance with mandatory design and code reviews. Able to anticipate project challenges and develop strategic solutions to mitigate risks.
• Demonstrates proactive planning and organization, maintains focus on project goals, and effectively manages time and resources. Exhibits strong leadership qualities, fosters a collaborative team environment, and consistently delivers high-quality project outcomes.

Communication and Coordination

• Strong understanding of effective communication strategies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, including team members, project managers, and executive management.
• Capable of maintaining program documentation, compiling data, and preparing regular reports on program status, achievements, and challenges.
• Actively listens to others, provides clear and concise information, and fosters open and transparent communication.

Risk Management

• Proficient in risk management principles and practices.
• Ability to establish formal risk identification, documentation, and mitigation procedures.
• Capable of analyzing and communicating project risks and developing mitigation plans, as well as implementing formal change control processes.
• Anticipates potential risks, takes a proactive approach to risk mitigation, and remains calm under pressure.

Leadership and Supervision

• Understanding of leadership principles and team dynamics. Understanding of supervisory principles, practices, and techniques, including performance management, team dynamics, and conflict resolution.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor project teams, providing guidance and support to ensure successful project delivery. Ability to effectively manage and lead a team, including setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Able to propose improvements to project management processes and advise other IT professionals on best practices. Capable of motivating and developing team members, addressing performance issues, and ensuring that team goals are met.
• Inspires and motivates team members, leads by example, and fosters a positive and inclusive team environment. Demonstrates fairness and consistency in decision-making, supports team members' professional growth, and maintains a positive and inclusive team culture.

Strategic and Analytical Thinking

• Ability to analyze complex business requirements and translate them into actionable project plans and deliverables.
• Skill in evaluating proposed IT solutions for business alignment, technical feasibility, and long-term sustainability.
• Proven ability to prepare and present project proposals, progress reports, and recommendations to executive stakeholders and governance bodies.

Technical Skills

• Advanced knowledge of recognized project management methodologies, tools, and frameworks typically obtained through obtaining formal education, progressive professional experience and/or professional certifications.
• Proficient in data management principles, software development life cycle, and emerging technologies.
• Capable of applying technical knowledge to solve complex problems and support project objectives.
• Demonstrates a continuous learning mindset, stays updated on technological advancements, and applies technical expertise effectively.

Growth Mindset and Service-Oriented

• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Ability to identify learning opportunities, seek out resources, and apply new knowledge and skills to improve performance. Proficiency in setting and achieving personal and professional development goals.
• Takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Ability to effectively communicate with others, identify their needs, and provide appropriate solutions or support.
• Proficiency in managing and prioritizing tasks to ensure timely and satisfactory responses to requests.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

Contract Management of State IT Contracts

• Understanding of contract management principles, including the development, negotiation, and administration of state IT contracts. Familiarity with legal and regulatory requirements related to state IT contracts, as well as knowledge of various types of contracts such as service agreements, software licenses, and maintenance contracts.

Continuous Improvement

• Understanding of and the ability to apply continuous improvement principles, methodologies, and tools, including DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) process, process mapping, root cause analysis, and statistical analysis).

Organizational Change Management

• Understanding of and the ability to apply change management principles, methodologies, and tools, including the ADKAR model. Familiarity with the processes involved in planning, implementing, and sustaining organizational change.

Important Notes

• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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 ;/li>

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 telework options for eligible positions.
• 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 for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:
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 26DOT-HQ-04849 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 (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 (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 , 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

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

Updated 01-07-2026
01

Project Planning & Project Management: Select the option that best describes your experience independently planning and managing complex information technology projects.

• I have independently planned and managed multiple complex, enterprise-wide technology projects, including developing project budgets, work plans, schedules, resource plans, and managing project scope through completion.
• I have independently managed technology projects that included developing project plans, schedules, budgets, and coordinating project resources.
• I have supported project planning and management activities under the guidance of a project manager.
• I have limited or no experience supporting technology project planning or coordination.

02

Please describe your experience leading technology projects, including the project methodology used, your role, project size or complexity, and your responsibilities for scope, schedule, budget, risk, governance, and stakeholder management. If you do not this experience, please enter N/A.
03

Leadership & Supervision: Select the option that best describes your experience leading, mentoring, or supervising project teams.

• I have led cross-functional teams on multiple complex technology projects, providing leadership, mentoring, performance guidance, conflict resolution, and fostering collaboration to successfully deliver project outcomes.
• I have regularly led project teams or workgroups, assigned work, provided guidance, and coordinated project activities.
• I have served as a technical lead, project lead, or mentor for team members but have not had primary responsibility for leading an entire project team.
• I have participated as a project team member with limited leadership responsibilities.
• I have no experience leading or mentoring project teams.

04

Please describe your experience leading project teams, including your team size. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
05

Strategic & Analytical Thinking: Select the option that best describes your experience analyzing business needs and developing technology solutions or project recommendations.

• I have independently analyzed complex business requirements and developed strategic recommendations, project plans, or technology solutions presented to executive leadership or governance groups.
• I have analyzed business requirements and contributed to project plans, solution recommendations, or business cases.
• I have assisted with gathering business requirements or documenting business processes under the direction of others.
• I have limited or no experience analyzing business requirements.

06

Project Governance & Stakeholder Coordination: Select the option that best describes your experience establishing project governance and coordinating stakeholders for technology projects.

• I have independently established project governance structures, facilitated executive steering committees, led cross-functional project meetings, and coordinated business, technical, and executive stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
• I have facilitated project meetings and coordinated stakeholders across multiple business and technical teams.
• I have participated in project governance activities and stakeholder meetings but was not responsible for leading them.
• I have limited or no experience participating in project governance or stakeholder coordination.

07

Please describe your experience leading project governance activities, facilitating steering committees, or coordinating executive and stakeholder engagement. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
08

Project Monitoring, Risk & Compliance: Select the option that best describes your experience monitoring project performance, managing project risks, and ensuring compliance with project governance requirements.

• I have independently monitored project scope, schedule, budget, risks, quality, and compliance, implementing formal risk management, issue resolution, change control, and governance processes for complex technology projects.
• I have monitored project performance and managed project risks, issues, or change requests for technology projects.
• I have supported project monitoring, risk tracking, or compliance activities under the direction of others.
• I have limited or no experience monitoring project performance or managing project risks.

09

Please describe your experience monitoring project performance, managing project risks and issues, implementing change control processes, and ensuring compliance with project governance requirements. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
10

Technology Procurement & Contract Support: Select the option that best describes your experience leading or supporting technology procurements using Requests for Information (RFI), Requests for Proposals (RFP), Requests for Quotations (RFQ), or similar solicitation processes.

• I have independently led technology procurement activities, including developing and coordinating RFIs, RFPs, RFQs, or similar solicitations in collaboration with procurement or contracts staff.
• I have participated in developing or coordinating technology procurement documents and vendor solicitation activities.
• I have supported procurement activities with limited responsibility for solicitation development.
• I have limited or no experience with technology procurements or vendor solicitations.

11

Please describe your experience with technology procurement activities, including your role in developing or coordinating RFIs, RFPs, RFQs, vendor evaluations, or contract awards. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
12

Technology Policy & Regulatory Compliance: Select the option that best describes your experience ensuring compliance with technology policies, standards, or regulatory requirements.

• I have independently interpreted, advised on, and ensured compliance with technology policies, standards, governance requirements, or applicable laws and regulations for complex technology initiatives.
• I have applied technology policies, standards, or regulatory requirements while managing or supporting technology projects.
• I have worked with technology policies or standards under the guidance of others.
• I have limited or no experience applying technology policies or compliance requirements.

13

Please describe your experience ensuring compliance with technology policies, governance requirements, standards, or regulatory requirements, including any experience working with statewide or organizational technology standards. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
14

Technical Skills: Select the option that best describes your experience applying project management methodologies and technical knowledge to technology projects.

• I have extensive experience applying recognized project management methodologies, software development lifecycle concepts, and technical knowledge to successfully deliver complex technology projects.
• I have experience applying project management methodologies and technical concepts to manage or support technology projects.
• I have basic knowledge of project management methodologies or software development concepts but limited practical application.
• I have limited or no experience with project management methodologies or technology project delivery.

15

Please describe the project management methodologies, tools, technologies, or technical practices you have used to successfully deliver technology projects. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
16

Contract Management of State IT Contracts: Select the option that best describes your experience managing or administering technology contracts.

• I have independently developed, negotiated, administered, or managed state or public-sector IT contracts, including vendor performance, contract compliance, and issue resolution.
• I have managed or administered IT contracts or vendor agreements but with limited responsibility for negotiations or contract development.
• I have assisted with IT contract administration, vendor coordination, or procurement activities.
• I have limited or no experience working with IT contracts.

17

Please describe your experience managing technology contracts, including your role in procurement, contract administration, vendor management, or compliance. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A. (Open Text)
18

Please list any relevant professional certifications you currently possess. If none, please enter N/A.
19

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.
• I have an associate's degree.
• I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• None of the above

20

If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.
21

Do you have a valid driver's license?

• Yes
• No

22

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

23

If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question