Electrical Engineer 4 - Washington State Ferries

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 collaborative professional to support the design, modernization, and reliability of Washington State Ferries’ vessel electrical systems. This position plays a vital role in ensuring ferry vessels remain safe, efficient, and compliant with regulatory standards through engineering support for repairs, modifications, and new construction projects. Working under the direction of the Chief Naval Architect, this role helps sustain dependable service for the traveling public by advancing critical vessel improvements and operational readiness. By empowering people, setting clear expectations, and modeling WSF’s core values of Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate, this position contributes to strong teams, sound engineering solutions, and the long-term success of the ferry system.

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 Electrical Engineer will:

• Prepare designs, calculations, specifications, reports, and drawings for vessel electrical modifications, repairs, and new construction.
• Ensure compliance with USCG, ABS, IMO/SOLAS, IEEE, and NEC requirements.
• Serve as Design Lead for vessel electrical system and equipment installations.
• Provide electrical engineering support on complex WSF vessel projects.
• Perform ship checks to verify field conditions, drawings, and modification needs.
• Develop technical details, cost estimates, and specifications for contracts, purchases, and shipyard work.
• Review vendor, consultant, contractor, and internal work for accuracy, quality, and compliance.
• Troubleshoot vessel electrical/electronic systems and provide technical guidance and training to staff.
• 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:

• Professional Engineering Licensure – Current Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in Electrical Engineering in Washington State, or licensure in another state with the ability to obtain Washington State licensure within six months of appointment.
• Marine Electrical Engineering Experience – Experience in a shipyard, naval architecture, marine engineering design office, or comparable setting involving shipboard electrical and electronic systems.
• Marine Systems Design and Analysis – Experience analyzing, designing, modifying, or troubleshooting marine electrical systems such as power distribution, lighting, controls, communications, navigation electronics, or power generation systems.
• Engineering Calculations and Technical Analysis – Demonstrated ability to apply first-principles engineering methods to perform calculations, load analysis, fault analysis, equipment sizing, or other technical evaluations supporting vessel systems and equipment.
• Technical Drawing and Specification Review – Experience interpreting, verifying, and developing engineering drawings, schematics, specifications, and technical documentation for equipment installation, repair, or modification projects.
• Technical Documentation and Reporting – Ability to prepare accurate reports, calculations, scopes of work, design packages, or other written engineering documents that support project execution and regulatory compliance.
• Communication and Coordination – Demonstrated ability to communicate technical information clearly in writing and verbally, and coordinate effectively with engineers, contractors, vessel crews, and other stakeholders.
• Planning and Work Management – Ability to manage multiple assignments, follow detailed technical instructions, prioritize work, meet deadlines, and complete assignments with limited supervision.
• Equity, Respect, and Professional Conduct – Experience contributing to a workplace culture that supports respect, inclusion, equal opportunity, and professional collaboration.
• Service and Continuous Improvement – Demonstrated commitment to responsive customer service, learning new skills, and continuous professional growth.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) – Ability to obtain and maintain a valid TWIC card within three months of employment.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Marine Environment Operations Experience – Experience working aboard vessels, in shipyards, ferry operations, or other marine environments supporting maintenance, engineering, or operations.
• Public Sector Regulatory Knowledge – Knowledge of public sector processes, contracting practices, procurement requirements, or government rules and regulations.
• Specialized Engineering Software Proficiency – Experience using engineering or marine design software such as SKM, Rhino3D, ShipConstructor, AutoCAD, or similar technical tools.
• Regulatory Standards Knowledge – Familiarity with marine and electrical standards such as USCG, ABS, IMO/SOLAS, IEEE, or NEC requirements.
• Project Support and Scheduling Experience – Experience supporting engineering project schedules, coordinating deliverables, tracking priorities, and meeting milestone deadlines in a regulated environment.

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 applicableCollective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found inChapter 357-28of 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 visitwww.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.
• PlanFor 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 toState 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 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 visitwww.uscis.gov

Contact Us

For inquiries aboutthis posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter atrenee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference26DOT-WSF-91016 in the subject line.