Digital Systems Port Engineer - Washington State Ferries

Salary : $148,284.00 Annually
Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-M00P7
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Washington State Ferries
Opening Date: 05/27/2026
Closing Date: 6/10/2026 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!

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

WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking a skilled and motivated professional to help support safe, reliable, and efficient ferry operations across the Washington State Ferries system. This position plays a critical role in maintaining and supporting vessel propulsion control, power management, steering, HVAC, alarm & monitoring, and related onboard systems that are essential to daily operations and public service. The successful candidate will make both tactical and strategic decisions that directly impact vessel performance, operational reliability, and passenger safety. By fostering a safe work environment and reinforcing WSF's core values of Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate, this role supports agency goals and helps deliver dependable transportation services to the communities we serve.

As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system - guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow Navigate- and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People - there's never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the (Working Title) will:

• Develop and manage preventative maintenance plans and digital system infrastructure for vessel propulsion controls and related systems across the WSF fleet.
• Establish and monitor fleetwide digital system performance, reliability, and configuration standards.
• Maintain digital system software, programming tools, licenses, and revision histories for all fleet systems.
• Review and approve maintenance strategies, system modifications, and obsolescence planning efforts.
• Coordinate inventory, acquisition, and lifecycle support for digital systems with Warehouse, Maintenance, and Engineering teams.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for propulsion control and digital system casualties, troubleshooting and coordinating repairs to restore vessel service.
• Document casualty responses and maintain vendor and field service relationships for critical control systems.
• Support vessel modifications and new construction by reviewing specifications, inspections, vendor work, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Uphold WSF's strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF's culture through leadership actions

Qualifications

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

• Propulsion and Power Management Controls
  • Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair AC and DC propulsion systems including alternators, drive motors, and power management control systems. Proven ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair propulsion control and power management systems in an industrial, maritime, or equivalent complex technical environment. Ability to diagnose and resolve system failures under time-critical conditions.
• Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Programming and Control Systems
  • Demonstrated ability to program, configure, and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) in control applications, including Allen Bradley, GE, and Siemens platforms. Knowledge of control theory including closed-loop control, interlocks, sequencing, and alarm logic as applied to industrial or marine control systems.
• AC and DC Power Generation, including Hybrid Battery Energy Storage
  • Operate, maintain, and diagnose AC and DC power generation systems configured with AC and DC switchboard operations, including the ability to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and corrective action on shipboard or comparable industrial electrical distribution systems.
• Technical Documentation and Regulatory Compliance
  • Demonstrated ability to prepare, review, and manage technical specifications, maintenance records, field service reports, and system modification documentation. Ensure compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulatory requirements applicable to vessel control, propulsion, and alarm systems.
• Service-Oriented -
  • Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others. Proven ability to collaborate with vessel crews, port engineers, contractors, and maintenance staff across diverse teams to support safe and reliable ferry operations. Adapts communication and technical guidance to support colleagues with varying levels of digital systems expertise.
• Growth Mindset
  • Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth. Demonstrated ability to self-reflect, identify personal and professional strengths and growth areas, and adapt to new technical challenges through innovative solutions. Takes responsibility for staying current with evolving digital systems technology, maritime regulations, and maintenance best practices.
  • Must be available to support a cell phone support rotation and able to respond to after-hours vessel casualties as required.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• LargeAC and DC Machine Knowledge
  • Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot large AC and DC machinesand their associated control systems.
• Industrial Communication Protocols
  • Ability to configure and troubleshoot industrial communication protocols based on Ethernet and RS485, and knowledge of PC architecture as applied to industrial control systems.
• HMI Software
  • Ability to troubleshoot and modify Human-Machine Interface (HMI) software used in vessel control and monitoring applications.

Important Notes

• 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.
• 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

Why WSDOT

• Paid Leave - In addition to 13 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 tofor 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 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 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.

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 ;br>Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-M00P7 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

Which option best describes your experience maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing AC/DC propulsion systems and power management control systems?

• I independently troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair complex AC/DC propulsion and power management systems in maritime or industrial environments, including time-critical system failures.
• I regularly perform maintenance and troubleshooting on propulsion and power management systems with limited oversight.
• I have assisted with maintenance and troubleshooting of propulsion or power management systems in an industrial or technical environment.
• I have limited exposure to propulsion or power management systems but no direct troubleshooting responsibility.
• I have no experience with propulsion or power management systems.

02

Which option best describes your experience programming, configuring, and troubleshooting PLC-based control systems?

• I independently program, configure, and troubleshoot PLC systems using platforms such as Allen Bradley, GE, or Siemens, including advanced control logic and sequencing.
• I regularly troubleshoot and modify PLC programs and control logic in operational systems
• I have experience supporting PLC troubleshooting and making minor program or configuration changes.
• I have limited exposure to PLC systems but little or no hands-on troubleshooting or programming experience.
• I have no experience with PLC programming or control systems.

03

Which option best describes your experience operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting AC/DC power generation or electrical distribution systems?

• I independently maintain and troubleshoot complex AC/DC power generation and electrical distribution systems in maritime or industrial environments.
• I regularly perform maintenance and diagnostics on electrical generation or switchboard systems with limited oversight.
• I have experience assisting with maintenance or operation of electrical generation or distribution systems.
• I have limited exposure to electrical generation or switchboard systems.
• I have no experience with AC/DC power generation or electrical distribution systems.

04

Which option best describes your experience preparing or managing technical documentation and ensuring regulatory compliance?

• I independently prepare, review, and manage technical specifications, maintenance records, modification documents, and regulatory compliance documentation.
• I regularly maintain technical records and review documentation for operational or maintenance compliance.
• I have assisted with technical documentation and compliance-related activities.
• I have limited exposure to technical documentation processes.
• I have no experience with technical documentation or regulatory compliance.

05

Which option best describes your experience collaborating with operational staff, maintenance teams, contractors, or technical personnel to support safe and reliable operations?

• I regularly lead cross-functional collaboration efforts and provide technical guidance in high-impact operational environments.
• I frequently collaborate with diverse teams to resolve operational or maintenance issues.
• I have experience working cooperatively with teams in support of operational goals.
• I have limited experience collaborating in technical or operational environments.
• I have no experience working in collaborative operational or maintenance settings

06

Which option best describes your approach to maintaining and improving your technical knowledge and skills?

• I actively pursue advanced training, certifications, and independent learning to stay current on evolving technologies, regulations, and industry best practices.
• I regularly participate in training and apply new technical knowledge in my work.
• I occasionally participate in training or learning opportunities related to my work.
• I have limited participation in professional or technical development activities.
• I have not actively pursued technical or professional development.

07

Please describe your hands-on experience with PLC programming, troubleshooting, or configuration, including platforms used (e.g., Allen Bradley, GE, Siemens) and the types of systems supported.
08

Please describe your experience maintaining, troubleshooting, or repairing propulsion controls, power management systems, AC/DC generation systems, or related industrial electrical systems. Include the environment in which the work was performed.
09

This position requires participation in a cell phone support rotation and the ability to respond to after-hours vessel casualties as needed. Are you able to meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No

10

Which option best describes your experience with industrial communication protocols and HMI software?

• I independently configure and troubleshoot industrial communication protocols (Ethernet, RS485, etc.) and modify HMI software in operational control systems.
• I regularly support troubleshooting and configuration of industrial communication systems and HMI applications.
• I have some hands-on experience with industrial communication protocols or HMI software.
• I have limited exposure to industrial communication systems or HMI software.
• I have no experience with industrial communication protocols or HMI software.

11

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)

12

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