Assistant Project Engineer

State of Washington•Spokane County - Multiple Locations, WA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking two Assistant Project Engineers to support the Eastern Region Construction Offices in Spokane, WA. These roles will contribute to the delivery of highway construction projects aimed at enhancing safety, mobility, and reliability for communities across Washington. As a licensed Professional Engineer, you will collaborate with the Project Engineer to lead multidisciplinary teams and supervise construction projects from inception to completion. Your responsibilities will include ensuring projects adhere to scope, schedule, and budget, while meeting all state and federal requirements. By applying sound engineering judgment, resolving complex issues, and maintaining accountability throughout the construction process, you will directly support WSDOT’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation systems. You will also play a key leadership role within the project office, coordinating with internal teams, contractors, and external partners.

Requirements

Registration as a Licensed Professional Civil Engineer in Washington State with demonstrated ability to apply licensed professional engineering judgment, including responsible use of stamping authority in compliance with established standards and policies.
Understanding of transportation engineering practices and multiple disciplines, including design, construction, traffic, geotechnical, structural, hydraulics, environmental, and materials.
Ability to interpret plans, specifications, and contracts to make sound, defensible decisions in construction and project delivery.
Ability to manage teams, schedules, and resources to deliver projects within scope, schedule, and budget.
Ability to lead, mentor, and support multidisciplinary teams, including guiding performance and development.
Ability to build effective working relationships and contribute to a respectful, inclusive work environment.
Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Takes action to meet the needs of others.
A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
Ability to safely navigate active construction sites, including uneven terrain and exposure to hazards.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing highway construction projects, including contract administration, dispute resolution, and risk management.
Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams on large or complex transportation projects.
Ability to communicate complex technical information clearly to leadership, stakeholders, and the public.
Experience contributing to or leading efforts that improve project delivery, efficiency, or organizational effectiveness.

Responsibilities

Plan and manage project budgets, schedules, and workforce needs to deliver construction programs.
Lead and support engineers, technicians, interns, and consultants delivering multiple transportation projects.
Communicate, negotiate, and resolve contract issues, disputes, and change orders.
Coordinate with design teams during project development to ensure alignment and constructability.
Ensure projects are delivered in compliance with WSDOT policies, environmental requirements, and contract standards.
Report on project status and key updates to regional and executive leadership.
Coordinate with internal teams, external agencies, contractors, and the public to resolve issues and maintain progress.
Review and approve construction changes and certify compliance with engineering standards using professional engineering judgment.