Job Description

Posting number: 26DOT-OR-3W035e

Department: Dept. of Transportation

Division: Olympic Region

Job classification: WMS BAND 3

Posting type: Open

Categories: Engineering, Public Safety, Transportation, Management, Program Management

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 currently seeking a Region Local Programs Engineer to lead the Region Local Programs Office and strengthen partnerships that deliver transportation improvements across Washington. In this key leadership role, you will collaborate with local agencies, Tribal Governments, regional organizations, and the Federal Highway Administration to help advance federally and state-funded transportation projects that serve communities statewide. Your expertise will help ensure projects are delivered in compliance with state and federal requirements while supporting safe, reliable, and efficient transportation systems. This position plays a vital role in advancing WSDOT's mission by fostering collaboration, promoting accountability, and improving mobility and public safety for the traveling public.

What to Expect
This position provides technical direction, guidance, and training for internal and external staff. Occasionally requested by agencies to be on interview panels for the selection of key staff members or consultants.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Lead, plan, organize, and supervise the Region Local Programs Office, ensuring effective use of resources, maintaining high ethical and professional standards, and supporting a diverse workforce.
• Administer and enforce compliance with state and federal laws, regulations, and funding requirements for transportation programs and projects, applying appropriate oversight to protect federal funding and address noncompliance.
• Oversee project management and serve as the approving authority for federally funded projects administered by non-certified local agencies, including consultant selection, agreements, project design, plans, specifications, estimates, contract advertisement and award, change orders, contractor claims, final inspections, and project closeout.
• Conduct project risk assessments, monitor project delivery, and provide technical, schedule, financial, and funding oversight throughout all project phases, including planning, environmental documentation, right of way, design, and construction.
• Provide technical guidance, consultation, training, and federal compliance support to local agencies, including assistance with consultant procurement and project administration.
• Build and maintain collaborative partnerships with local agencies, Tribal Governments, MPOs, RTPOs, and other stakeholders, representing WSDOT and facilitating coordination, transportation agreements, and route transfer processes.
• Resolve complex transportation issues and politically sensitive conflicts between WSDOT and local agencies, advocate for mutually beneficial solutions, and represent local agency interests during transportation planning and project delivery.
• Respond to inquiries from the public, media, and legislative officials, gather customer feedback, and recommend improvements to enhance program effectiveness and stakeholder satisfaction.

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

• Professional Licensure: Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Civil Engineering in the State of Washington, or the ability to obtain Washington State PE licensure within 3 months of hire.
• Engineering Management: Applies sound engineering judgment and extensive knowledge of project development, construction principles, contract administration, and program delivery, including budget, schedule, environmental, and quality accountability.
• Strategic Planning and Program Management: Develops strategic plans, establishes performance objectives, monitors results, and implements corrective actions to achieve program goals.
• Communication and Stakeholder Relations: Communicates effectively with executives, employees, elected officials, industry partners, media, and the public while addressing customer needs and concerns.
• Contract Administration and Decision-Making: Evaluates and resolves complex contractual issues and disputes, making timely, sound decisions that support organizational objectives.
• Leadership and Workforce Development: Leads and develops a diverse workforce while fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Driver's License: Possesses and maintains a valid, unrestricted driver's license and is able to operate a state-owned vehicle and travel to project sites as needed.
• 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:

• Technical Civil Engineering Expertise: Demonstrates advanced knowledge of civil engineering principles related to the design, construction, and maintenance of transportation infrastructure, including highways and bridges.
• Leadership and Project Delivery: Effectively leads teams and oversees the delivery of complex transportation programs and projects while supporting successful project administration.

*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. Regular in-person presence is expected.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• 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 www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle.
• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees mayearn 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 a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of 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 recruiter listed.

Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov Please be sure to reference 3W035e in the subject line.