Salary : $99,300.00 - $133,608.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-05588
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 07/09/2026
Closing Date: 7/19/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionThe OpportunityWSDOT is seeking an IT Project Manager (Senior/Specialist) to join the Technology Services Division (TSD) Enterprise Implementation Services team. In this critical role, you will lead the successful planning, delivery, and oversight of enterprise AI, data, and technology initiatives that support WSDOT's mission and strategic goals. Working under the Enterprise Technology Project Management Office (ETPMO), you will manage complex, high-risk, enterprise-wide projects, coordinate cross-functional teams and stakeholders, ensure compliance with Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech), Office of Financial Management (OFM), and WSDOT IT standards, and support the procurement and implementation of innovative AI and data solutions. This position also provides project management expertise for other enterprise technology initiatives as assigned.
What to ExpectAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the IT Project Manager (Senior/Specialist) will:
- Independently analyze the business requirements, resources, and the proposed solution, and develop an initial project budget and project work plan and provide them to TSD management.
- Independently analyze the proposed scope, schedule and budget.
- Facilitate the establishment of a Project Steering committee ensuring composition from IT Business Customer management, TSD management personnel and Stakeholders.
- Establish and lead project team meetings to manage the progress of the team throughout the duration of the project.
- Continuously monitor and measure project team execution of assigned tasks; identify reports and escalate, as appropriate, any deviations from the approved scope, schedule, and budget.
- Coordinate project team activity with external entities to ensure compliance with mandatory design and code reviews, and work with project SMEs, ensure and document project compliance.
- Lead the TSD development and coordination efforts for Request for Proposal (RFP)/Request for Quotation (RFQ)/Request for Information (RFI) (Collectively RFx) acquisition process with the agency's Administrative Contracts Office.
- Independently establish and facilitate risk management, issue resolution, and formal change control processes.
- Advise, facilitate, and ensure WSDOT TSD Business Customer compliance with applicable Revised Code of Washington (RCWs), and Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech) Policies, Standards, and Guidelines.
QualificationsTo be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
Project Management- Comprehensive, advanced understanding of project management principles, standards, and best practices (e.g., PMI PMBOK, Agile) typically obtained through formal education and progressive professional development.
- In-depth knowledge of project lifecycle phases, knowledge areas, project budgets, risk management, governance, and quality assurance processes.
- Ability to independently analyze business requirements, develop project documentation, and manage project scope, schedule, and budget.
- Proficiency in using project management software and tools to track progress and ensure project alignment with organizational goals.
- Capable of leading project team meetings, monitoring progress, and ensuring compliance with mandatory design and code reviews. Able to anticipate project challenges and develop strategic solutions to mitigate risks.
- Demonstrates proactive planning and organization, maintains focus on project goals, and effectively manages time and resources. Exhibits strong leadership qualities, fosters a collaborative team environment, and consistently delivers high-quality project outcomes.
Communication and Coordination- Strong understanding of effective communication strategies.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, including team members, project managers, and executive management.
- Capable of maintaining program documentation, compiling data, and preparing regular reports on program status, achievements, and challenges.
- Actively listens to others, provides clear and concise information, and fosters open and transparent communication.
Risk Management- Proficient in risk management principles and practices.
- Ability to establish formal risk identification, documentation, and mitigation procedures.
- Capable of analyzing and communicating project risks and developing mitigation plans, as well as implementing formal change control processes.
- Anticipates potential risks, takes a proactive approach to risk mitigation, and remains calm under pressure.
Leadership and Supervision- Understanding of leadership principles and team dynamics. Understanding of supervisory principles, practices, and techniques, including performance management, team dynamics, and conflict resolution.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor project teams, providing guidance and support to ensure successful project delivery. Ability to effectively manage and lead a team, including setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a positive work environment.
- Able to propose improvements to project management processes and advise other IT professionals on best practices. Capable of motivating and developing team members, addressing performance issues, and ensuring that team goals are met.
- Inspires and motivates team members, leads by example, and fosters a positive and inclusive team environment. Demonstrates fairness and consistency in decision-making, supports team members' professional growth, and maintains a positive and inclusive team culture.
Strategic and Analytical Thinking- Ability to analyze complex business requirements and translate them into actionable project plans and deliverables.
- Skill in evaluating proposed IT solutions for business alignment, technical feasibility, and long-term sustainability.
- Proven ability to prepare and present project proposals, progress reports, and recommendations to executive stakeholders and governance bodies.
Technical Skills - Advanced knowledge of recognized project management methodologies, tools, and frameworks typically obtained through obtaining formal education, progressive professional experience and/or professional certifications.
- Proficient in data management principles, software development life cycle, and emerging technologies.
- Capable of applying technical knowledge to solve complex problems and support project objectives.
- Demonstrates a continuous learning mindset, stays updated on technological advancements, and applies technical expertise effectively.
Growth Mindset and Service-Oriented - Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Ability to identify learning opportunities, seek out resources, and apply new knowledge and skills to improve performance. Proficiency in setting and achieving personal and professional development goals.
- Takes action to meet the needs of others.
- Ability to effectively communicate with others, identify their needs, and provide appropriate solutions or support.
- Proficiency in managing and prioritizing tasks to ensure timely and satisfactory responses to requests.
The following qualifications are also required:
- A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:
Contract Management of State IT Contracts- Understanding of contract management principles, including the development, negotiation, and administration of state IT contracts. Familiarity with legal and regulatory requirements related to state IT contracts, as well as knowledge of various types of contracts such as service agreements, software licenses, and maintenance contracts.
Data Governance Knowledge- Strong grasp of data governance frameworks, compliance standards, and lifecycle management. Familiarity with metadata management, data quality, and lineage tracking and an understanding of regulatory requirements (GDPR, AI Act).
AI Governance and Ethical Oversight- Knowledge of responsible AI principles and frameworks, fairness, transparency, and explainability. Ability to integrate AI governance frameworks into project workflows. Awareness of emerging AI regulations and ethical considerations.
Important Notes - The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- 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.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
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 of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may 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 UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference
26DOT-HQ-05588 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 wo
