Salary : $84,250.00 - $113,639.00 Annually
Location : King County - Seattle - Other, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-NWR-80446
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Urban Mobility Access & Mega Programs
Opening Date: 08/05/2026
Closing Date: 8/20/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionAbout WSDOTThe 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 OpportunityWSDOT is seeking a Change Order Engineer to support the SR 520 Bridge Replacement and HOV Program in Seattle, WA. This position plays a key role in administering change orders for major design-build construction contracts while ensuring contract modifications are technically sound, thoroughly documented, and aligned with agency policies and project goals. As a member of the Construction Business Team, you will collaborate with engineers, project managers, contractors, and subject matter experts to evaluate contract changes, develop cost estimates, review contractor submittals, and support contract compliance. Your work directly contributes to the successful delivery of high-profile transportation projects that improve safety, mobility, and quality of life throughout Washington.
What to ExpectAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Develop construction contract change orders by researching contract requirements, coordinating with technical experts, preparing change order documentation and justifications, developing independent engineer's estimates, and processing approvals through electronic management systems.
- Review proposed contract changes and provide recommendations during change management meetings to support timely and effective project decisions.
- Participate in Design-Build Change Management meetings to discuss proposed changes, ask clarifying questions, and support contract administration activities.
- Review contractor schedule updates and other contract submittals to verify compliance with contract requirements.
- Review eligible third-party invoices and provide payment recommendations.
- Evaluate internal cost and schedule reports, identify discrepancies, and coordinate corrections as needed.
- Assist with reviewing quarterly and monthly contract reports, reconcile comments, and verify compliance before contractor submittal.
- Provide day-to-day leadership, coaching, and performance management for one Transportation Engineer 2 while fostering a respectful, collaborative, and inclusive work environment.
QualificationsTo be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Engineering Knowledge and Application: Demonstrated ability to apply civil engineering principles and technical knowledge to transportation projects while evaluating issues and recommending practical engineering solutions.
- Leadership: Ability to supervise, coach, mentor, and support employee development while fostering accountability, collaboration, and respectful working relationships; including evaluating performance, identifying training needs, and resolving personnel issues.
- Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Experience reading, interpreting, analyzing, and producing contract plans, specifications, and cost estimates in accordance with project requirements and engineering standards, as well as complex construction plans, provisions, and standards.
- Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills to communicate technical information clearly to a variety of stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and the public.
- Construction Change Management: Experience developing, evaluating, and administering change orders on design-build construction projects.
- Technology Proficiency: Proficiency using Microsoft 365 applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook, and construction management software, including Construction Contract Information System (CCIS).
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Conflict Resolution: Experience evaluating issues between project owners and contractors and recommending fair, reasonable, and contract-compliant resolutions.
- Mentoring: Supervisory or mentoring skills to lead engineers performing design-build construction inspection work.
- Technical Communication: Experience interpreting and explaining complex structural or civil engineering plans to project team members, contractors, partner agencies, and members of the public.
Important Notes - This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options, per supervisor approval.
- 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. 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 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 ApplyApplications 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.
Contact UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference
26DOT-NWR-80446 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 BenefitsEmployees 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 CompensationState 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 SecurityAll 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 ForgivenessIf 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 LeaveWashington 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 LeaveLeave 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
Engineering Knowledge and Application: Please select the option that best describes your experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation-related projects.
- I have applied advanced civil engineering principles to complex transportation projects, evaluated technical issues, and recommended engineering solutions independently.
- I have applied civil engineering principles to transportation projects and regularly contributed to evaluating technical issues and developing engineering solutions.
- I have assisted with applying civil engineering principles to transportation projects under the guidance of others.
- I have limited or no experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation-related projects.
02
Please describe your experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation-related projects and recommending engineering solutions. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
03
Leadership: Please select the option that best describes your supervisory and leadership experience.
- I have supervised employees, completed performance evaluations, coached staff, identified training needs, and addressed personnel issues.
- I have supervised or led employees and regularly coached or mentored staff but had limited responsibility for performance management.
- I have served as a technical lead, mentor, or project lead without formal supervisory responsibilities.
- I have limited or no leadership or supervisory experience.
04
Please describe your experience supervising, coaching, mentoring, or leading employees, including your role in performance management and staff development. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
05
Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Please select the option that best describes your experience interpreting engineering and construction documents.
- I have independently interpreted and developed contract plans, specifications, construction documents, and engineer's cost estimates for transportation projects.
- I have regularly interpreted contract plans, specifications, and construction documents and assisted with developing cost estimates.
- I have reviewed engineering plans and specifications under the direction of others.
- I have limited or no experience interpreting engineering or construction documents.
06
Please describe your experience reading, interpreting, analyzing, or preparing contract plans, specifications, construction documents, or engineer's estimates. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
07
Communication: Please select the option that best describes your experience communicating verbally.
- I have regularly given presentations or briefings on a variety of topics to diverse audiences.
- I have regularly participated in meetings with project teams, contractors, or agency staff to explain information, answer questions, collaborate, or coordinate work.
- I have communicated one-on-one or in small group discussions with project team members or coworkers to answer questions, collaborate, or coordinate work.
- I have limited experience communicating verbally in a professional or team-oriented environment.
08
Communication: Please select the option that best describes your experience communicating in writing.
- I have regularly prepared change orders, reports, letters, memos, emails, or similar written communications on a variety of topics for diverse audiences, such as project teams, agency staff, contractors, executive management, project stakeholders, or the general public.
- I have prepared change orders, reports, letters, memos, or emails for project teams, contractors, or agency staff.
- I have primarily written memos and emails within my immediate work group.
- I have limited experience preparing professional written communications.
09
Please describe your experience communicating verbally and in writing on a variety of topics to a wide range of audiences. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
10
Technical Information Coordination: Please select the option that best describes your experience conveying and coordinating technical information.
- I have regularly conveyed and coordinated complex technical information with engineers, contractors, leadership, agencies, and members of the public.
- I have conveyed and coordinated technical information with project teams, contractors, or agency staff.
- I have conveyed and coordinated technical information primarily within my immediate work group.
- I have limited or no experience conveying or coordinating technical information.
11
Please describe your experience conveying and coordinating technical information with a variety of audiences. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
12
Construction Change Management: Please select the option that best describes your experience with construction change management on design-build projects.
- I have independently developed, negotiated, and administered change orders on design-build construction projects.
- I have participated in developing or reviewing change orders on design-build construction projects.
- I have experience with construction contract administration but limited experience with change orders on design-build projects.
- I have limited or no experience with design-build construction change management.
13
Please describe your experience developing, evaluating, or administering construction change orders on design-build projects. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
14
Please describe your experience using Microsoft 365 applications and CCIS or similar construction management software. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
15
Conflict Resolution: Please select the option that best describes your experience resolving owner and contractor issues.
- I have independently evaluated complex owner and contractor issues and recommended fair, reasonable, and contract-compliant resolutions.
- I have participated in evaluating owner and contractor issues and contributed to resolving conflicts.
- I have observed or assisted with conflict resolution involving construction contracts.
- I have limited or no experience resolving owner and contractor issues.
16
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)
17
| If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
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