Assist Project Engineer

State of Washington • Spokane County – Spokane, WA

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

WSDOT is hiring two Assistant Project Engineers to support its Eastern Region Construction Offices in Spokane, Washington. The role supports delivery of highway construction projects that improve safety, mobility, and reliability across Washington. Working with the Project Engineer, the Assistant Project Engineer helps lead multidisciplinary teams and oversee construction projects from planning through completion, ensuring work aligns with scope, schedule, budget, and state and federal requirements. The position requires sound engineering judgment, resolution of complex issues, and accountability throughout construction. It also serves as a leadership role within the project office, coordinating with internal teams, contractors, external partners, and the public.

The work combines office and field duties, leadership, technical decision-making, and stakeholder coordination. WSDOT offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. This recruitment will fill two vacancies and may be used for additional positions based on business needs.

Requirements

• Be registered as a Licensed Professional Civil Engineer or be able to obtain a Washington State PE license within one year of the hiring date.
• Demonstrate and apply licensed professional engineering judgment, including responsible use of stamping authority in compliance with established standards and policies.
• Understand transportation engineering practices and multiple disciplines, including design, construction, traffic, geotechnical, structural, hydraulics, environmental, and materials.
• Interpret plans, specifications, and contracts to make sound, defensible decisions in construction and project delivery.
• Manage teams, schedules, and resources to deliver projects within scope, schedule, and budget.
• Lead, mentor, and support multidisciplinary teams, including guiding performance and development.
• Build effective working relationships and contribute to a respectful, inclusive work environment.
• Demonstrate commitment to learning and growth.
• Take action to meet the needs of others.
• Have a valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• 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 comply with WSDOT policies, environmental requirements, and contract standards.
• Report 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.

Benefits

• Up to 12 paid holidays.
• Full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year.
• Tuition assistance options for permanent employees, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• A comprehensive benefits package with healthcare options.
• A choice of state retirement programs.
• Flexible schedule options, including telework options for eligible positions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed