Salary : $78,912.00 - $106,104.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 25DOT-HQ-04964
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 08/26/2025
Closing Date: 9/9/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity

WSDOT Public Transportation Division (PTD) is seeking someone with a passion for equity, inclusion, and access to public transportation for all citizens across the state to fill a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 position in Olympia, WA. The PTD develops and delivers distinctive programs, high-quality services, and innovative approaches that support an integrated, multimodal, and sustainable transportation system exceeding customers' and partners' expectations. This position supports these objectives by performing outreach, process development, planning and programming of the different projects funded under the public transportation grant programs. This position serves as a primary point of contact for staff and grantees statewide on the development, and prioritization of the Grants Management System (GMS) needs, and brings over $500 million in operating and capital projects into GMS. Also, the position is the primary contact for questions related to obligation of federal apportionments for each grant program and has a primary role in programming and authorization of Federal Transit Administration's funds for the various public transportation grant programs. The position has decision-making authority when identifying system and programming needs. The position will lead policy making and enforcement with system users. In this role, the incumbent will be responsible for developing processes that increase efficiency and advance user compliance.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Programming and Grants Planner will:

• Serve as the first point of contact on issues related to enhancements, workflows, policies, training, planning and implementation of new ideas and initiatives within the GMS.
• Make decisions and define the best path to better serve the public transportation providers and address their needs.
• Lead communication efforts with internal and external stakeholders, reach out to grantees statewide and ask for their feedback and input.
• Serve as the first point of contact for internal staff, other divisions within WSDOT, and external stakeholders on issues related to enhancements, workflows, policies, training, planning, and implementation of new ideas and initiatives within the GMS.
• Work with the different teams within PTD to integrate and reconcile ideas, projects, and processes leading the efforts of drafting new procedures and providing technical assistance/ guidance to the grantees.
• Lead communications, programming, and obligation of new federal apportionments in the Federal Transit Award Management System (TrAMS). Ensure timely submittal of federal applications and reports.
• Serve as the decision maker and lead on the prioritization and execution of the different programming needs of operating and capital projects in GMS and the programming of federal grants in the federal system.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state policies when programming projects and implementing new grant programs.
• Lead policy making and enforcement aspects related to system use and users' regular/ongoing interaction with the system.
• Serve as the division's technical expert when programming grants and projects within GMS during the different phases of grants/projects development and delivery.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

• Transportation and Planning Knowledge: Understanding and experience with transportation systems, environmental and land use planning, engineering, public administration, or related fields relevant to transportation planning and project delivery.
• Public Transportation: Familiarity and experience with the public transportation industry and its programs, policies, and practices.
• Grants Management: Proficiency in managing grants, including analyzing, evaluating, and resolving issues and problems.
• Analysis and Problem Solving: Ability to evaluate complex issues, identify solutions, and provide sound recommendations.
• Communication and Collaboration: Demonstrated strong skills in verbal, written, and visual communication, including the ability to simplify complex information, adapt messages to diverse audiences, and use negotiation and conflict resolution techniques.
• Respect and Equity: Demonstrated ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Public Transportation Expertise: Experience with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and agency policies related to public transportation, including governance, funding, planning, transit operations, special needs transportation, transportation demand management, legislative relations, and multimodal system analysis.
• Grant Processes and Compliance: Familiarity with state and federal public transportation grant processes, requirements, and regulations.
• Strategic Planning and Leadership: Ability to think strategically, lead projects and planning efforts, oversee system enhancements, and manage new initiatives.
• Analysis and Problem Solving: Advanced skills in analyzing complex issues, interpreting technical information, evaluating alternatives, and applying solutions that balance goals, resources, and risks.
• Accountability and Professionalism: Ability to work independently, meet commitments, adapt to change, manage competing priorities under pressure, and maintain high standards of reliability and professionalism.
• Customer Service: Skill in addressing customer questions and concerns, resolving issues efficiently, and maintaining a professional and approachable presence.
• Interpersonal Relationship Development: Ability to navigate organizational structures, build relationships across agencies and stakeholders, and influence outcomes through collaboration and diplomacy.
• Technology Proficiency: Advanced computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Visio, and other tools to develop reports, presentations, and data visualizations. Experience overseeing and maintaining grant management systems.

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

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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, 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees 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 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.
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.
Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-04964 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 month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 07-21-2025
01

Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience with transportation systems, including planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating transportation plans, programs, or policies.

• I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
• I have 7 - 10 years of this experience.
• I have 5 - 7 years of this experience.
• I have 3 - 5 years of this experience.
• I have 2 - 3 years of this experience.
• I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
• I do not have this experience.

02

Please briefly describe your experience with transportation systems, including planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating of transportation plans, programs, or policies. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
03

Please select the response that best describes your total years of grants management experience including analyzing, evaluating, and resolving issues and providing customer service.

• I have over six (6) years of this experience.
• I have 5 - 6 years of this experience.
• I have 4 - 5 years of this experience.
• I have 3 - 4 years of this experience.
• I have 2 - 3 years of this experience.
• I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
• I do not have this experience.

04

Please briefly describe your grants management experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
05

Do you have knowledge of state and federal public transportation grant processes?

• Yes
• No

06

Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience working within the public transportation industry and its programs and practices.

• I have over six (6) years of this experience.
• I have 5 - 6 years of this experience.
• I have 4 - 5 years of this experience.
• I have 3 - 4 years of this experience.
• I have 2 - 3 years of this experience.
• I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
• I do not have this experience.

07

Please briefly describe your experience working within the public transportation industry, specifically your experience working with compliance and the management of federal funds. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
08

Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.

• I have a master's degree or higher.
• I have a bachelor's degree.
• I have an associate's degree.
• I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• None of the above

09

If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, type N/A.
10

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Association for Washington Archaeology
• National Council on Public History
• Preserve Net
• Association for Washington Archaeology
• Preservation Directory
• Other (specify below)

11

If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question