Engineering Manager for Construction - Washington State Ferries

Salary : $128,520.00 - $157,210.00 Annually
Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-9W160r
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Washington State Ferries
Opening Date: 07/08/2026
Closing Date: 7/15/2026 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 an Engineering Manager to lead the successful delivery of terminal electrification construction projects that support the future of Washington's ferry system. This position plays a critical role in advancing one of the state's most significant transportation initiatives by overseeing construction execution and fostering collaboration across WSF, partner agencies, and industry stakeholders. Through strategic leadership and sound decision-making, this role helps ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to ferry operations and the traveling public. The work performed directly supports WSF's mission to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable ferry service for the people of Washington.

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 Engineer Manager for Construction will:

• Lead construction delivery of terminal electrification projects across multiple WSF terminals.
• Manage Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build construction contracts, including contractor performance, schedule, cost, quality, and contract administration.
• Oversee construction engineering, project execution, change management, risk management, and construction standards.
• Coordinate with WSF, WSDOT, regulatory agencies, and external partners to support successful project delivery.
• Ensure compliance with WSDOT policies, federal requirements, environmental permits, safety standards, and engineering requirements.
• Report project status, risks, and issues to executive leadership and support program reporting.
• Lead contractor negotiations, dispute resolution, and claims management.
• Supervise project engineers, inspectors, and support staff while ensuring professional engineering oversight, as applicable.
• 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:

• Extensive Construction Program Leadership
  • Demonstrated ability to lead construction delivery of complex infrastructure projects and coordinate multidisciplinary teams.
• Extensive Contract Administration & Delivery Method experience
  • Demonstrated ability to administer construction contracts, including Design-Build and/or Design-Bid-Build.
• Engineering & Technical Integration
  • Demonstrated ability to interpret engineering plans and guide technical decision-making across disciplines. A strong, experienced background in technical aspects of engineering/construction is absolutely necessary. Some combination of the following (Utilities, Structural Engineering, Marine Engineering, and /or Construction Administration) are key technical skills needed.
• Risk, Budget and Schedule Management
  • Demonstrated ability to manage construction cost, schedule and risk.
• Regulatory Compliance & Coordination
  • Demonstrated ability to ensure compliance with safety, environmental and regulatory requirements.
• Communication and Collaboration
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical information and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Independent Judgment and Decision Making
  • Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions in complex construction environments.
• Core Competencies
  • Growth Mindset - Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth
  • Service-Oriented - Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Marine / Waterfront Construction
  • Demonstrated ability to support or oversee construction of marine terminals or similar infrastructure.
• Electrification or Utility Infrastructure
  • Demonstrated ability to support construction or integration of electrical or utility systems.
• Federal Funding & Regulatory Environment
  • Demonstrated ability to work on projects subject to federal funding or complex regulatory requirements.
• Leadership & Team Development
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor, guide, or supervise staff.
• Project Management & Continuous Improvement
  • Demonstrated ability to apply project management practices and improve delivery processes.
• Professional Credentials (Optional)
  • Relevant certifications or licensure such as Professional Engineer (PE) or PMP.

Important Notes

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County
• 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

• 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 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 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 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-9W160r 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

Describe your experience leading the construction delivery of large, complex infrastructure projects. Include the types of projects, your role, size of program or portfolio, and your responsibility for construction execution.
02

Which statement best describes your experience administering Design-Build and/or Design-Bid-Build construction contracts?

• I have led administration of multiple Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build construction contracts for large, complex infrastructure projects, with responsibility for contract performance, negotiations, change management, and project delivery.
• I have administered Design-Build or Design-Bid-Build construction contracts for complex infrastructure projects and had significant responsibility for contract execution and oversight.
• I have supported administration of Design-Build or Design-Bid-Build construction contracts as part of a project team.
• I have limited exposure to Design-Build or Design-Bid-Build contract administration.
• I have no experience administering Design-Build or Design-Bid-Build construction contracts.

03

Describe your engineering or technical construction background, including experience interpreting engineering plans and specifications and coordinating technical decisions across multiple disciplines. Include any experience in utilities, structural, marine, or construction engineering.
04

Which statement best describes your experience managing construction project budgets, schedules, and risk?

• I have been accountable for managing budgets, schedules, and risks on multiple large, complex construction programs and routinely made decisions affecting project delivery.
• I have managed budgets, schedules, and risks for major construction projects with significant responsibility for project outcomes.
• I have managed one or more aspects of project budget, schedule, or risk as part of a project team.
• I have limited experience supporting project budget, schedule, or risk management.
• I have no experience managing construction budgets, schedules, or risks.

05

Which statement best describes your experience ensuring compliance with construction safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements?

• I have led compliance efforts for multiple complex infrastructure projects involving federal, state, and environmental regulatory requirements.
• I have managed compliance for major construction projects and coordinated with regulatory agencies.
• I have supported compliance activities under the direction of project leadership.
• I have limited experience with construction regulatory compliance.
• I have no experience with construction regulatory compliance.

06

Which statement best describes your experience communicating technical information and collaborating with diverse stakeholders?

• I routinely lead discussions with executive leadership, contractors, engineers, regulatory agencies, and external partners to resolve complex project issues.
• I regularly communicate technical information to project teams, management, and stakeholders.
• I frequently collaborate with internal project teams and occasionally present technical information.
• I have limited experience communicating technical information to diverse audiences.
• I have no experience in this area.

07

Which statement best describes your experience making independent decisions during construction project execution?

• I routinely make high-impact decisions involving construction strategy, contractor performance, risk, and project delivery with minimal oversight.
• I regularly make independent project decisions affecting construction execution and project outcomes.
• I make routine construction decisions within established guidance.
• I have limited authority to make construction-related decisions.
• I have no experience making construction project decisions.

08

Which statement best describes your experience with marine, waterfront, utility, or electrification infrastructure projects?

• I have led construction of marine or waterfront infrastructure that included utility and/or electrification systems.
• I have managed construction projects involving either marine infrastructure or utility/electrical systems.
• I have supported marine, waterfront, utility, or electrical infrastructure projects.
• I have limited exposure to these types of projects.
• I have no experience with marine, waterfront, utility, or electrification infrastructure.

09

Which statement best describes your experience leading teams and delivering federally funded construction projects?

• I have supervised professional staff, managed federally funded construction projects, and implemented process improvements that enhanced project delivery.
• I have supervised staff and managed projects subject to federal funding or regulatory requirements.
• I have led project teams or participated on federally funded projects.
• I have limited supervisory or federally funded project experience.
• I have no experience supervising staff or working on federally funded construction projects.

10

Which of the following best describes your professional credentials?

• I currently hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license and additional relevant certification(s) (such as PMP).
• I currently hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• I currently hold a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or another relevant professional certification.
• I am actively pursuing a PE, PMP, or another relevant professional credential.
• I do not currently hold or pursue a relevant professional credential.

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