Engineering Manager for Construction - Washington State Ferries

State of Washington$128K — $157K *
Real Estate & Construction
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of extensive experience in construction program leadership, specifically in complex infrastructure projects.
  • Proven experience in contract administration, particularly in Design-Build or Design-Bid-Build frameworks.
  • Strong technical background in engineering disciplines such as Utilities, Structural Engineering, or Marine Engineering.
  • Expertise in risk management, budget control, and scheduling for construction projects.
  • Ability to ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills for working with diverse stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated independent judgment and decision-making in complex construction environments.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the delivery of terminal electrification construction projects across multiple ferry terminals.
  • Manage construction contracts, monitoring performance, schedule, and quality.
  • Oversee project execution, change management, and adherence to construction standards.
  • Coordinate efforts with WSF, WSDOT, regulatory agencies, and external partners.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and engineering standards.
  • Report project status and issues to executive leadership.
  • Negotiate with contractors and manage disputes and claims.

Benefits

  • Flexible/Hybrid remote work options available.
  • Generous paid leave including up to 25 vacation days per year plus 12 paid holidays.
  • Tuition assistance programs including reimbursement and discounts at participating colleges.
  • Comprehensive healthcare package with multiple options for employees.
  • Eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
Full Job Description
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

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.

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 m

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