Engineering Manager for Construction - 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 an experienced Engineering Manager to lead the construction delivery of terminal electrification projects that support the future of Washington State Ferries. This key leadership role oversees complex infrastructure projects from field execution through final acceptance, ensuring work is delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and in compliance with environmental and regulatory standards. The position plays a critical role in minimizing impacts to ferry operations and the traveling public while advancing reliable service throughout the system. Through strategic decision-making, cross-agency coordination, and strong project leadership, this role helps deliver innovative infrastructure that strengthens WSF’s long-term operational readiness and public service mission.

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 Engineering Manager for Construction will:

• Directs and manages construction delivery of terminal electrification projects across multiple WSF terminals.
• Provides oversight of Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build contracts, including contractor performance, schedule, cost, quality, and compliance.
• Leads construction engineering, contract administration, and reviews/approvals of submittals, change orders, work plans, and construction sequencing.
• Establishes and implements construction management processes, procedures, and standards for electrification projects.
• Oversees project risk management during construction, including cost, schedule, operational risks, dispute resolution, and claim management.
• Coordinates with Terminal Engineering, WSDOT regional offices, and external partners to ensure continuity from design through construction and long-term maintenance needs in active transportation environments.
• Ensures compliance with WSDOT policies, FHWA/FTA requirements, environmental permits, safety standards, and applicable engineering requirements.
• Reports project status, risks, and issues to executive leadership; develops staffing plans and supervises project engineers, inspectors, and office 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 action.

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
• Ability to travel to terminal construction sites within Washington State

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 a flexible/hybrid work arrangement that will evolve based on operational needs and project demands. Initially, the role may include occasional in-office work (approximately one to two days per week) with telework opportunities; however, over time it is expected to transition into a primarily field-based position with minimal telework. In-person attendance is required for meetings, site reviews, and project responsibilities
• 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

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