Construction Administration Manager (WMS3)

State of Washington•Olympia, WA

35d•Hybrid

About The Position

WSDOT's State Construction Office is currently seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking leader to fill the Construction Administration Manager vacancy. The State Construction Office plays a critical role in establishing statewide specifications, policies, and guidance for the administration of construction contracts, ensuring consistency and stewardship of federal funding across WSDOT projects. The Construction Administration Manager will serve as a key technical expert and leader, overseeing the eConstruction Program, Documentation Engineering, Specifications, and Construction Training functions. This position will also act as a primary liaison with internal and external partners, aligning WSDOT construction policy with the needs of cross-functional teams including the Bridge and Structures Office, Office of Equity and Civil Rights, and the Federal Highway Administration. A strong candidate will demonstrate technical proficiency in contract administration, collaborative communication skills, and the ability to guide teams and resolve complex construction issues effectively.

Requirements

Contract Administration Expertise: Demonstrated ability to interpret, apply, and guide others in the use of construction contract documents, administration policies, procedures, and documentation standards to ensure compliance with WSDOT, state, and federal requirements.
Construction Policy Leadership: Experience leading teams to develop, implement, and maintain construction policies, specifications, and statewide procedures that support consistency, quality, and efficiency.
Technical and Regulatory Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of construction methods, materials, and documentation practices; state and federal public contracting laws; audit and compliance principles; and environmental and cultural resource requirements related to construction.
Analytical and Decision-Making Skills: Skilled in assessing complex contract administration issues, determining acceptable risk levels, and making informed, defensible decisions that align with organizational goals and regulatory obligations.
Conflict Resolution and Negotiation: Ability to facilitate the resolution of disputes and disagreements between internal and external stakeholders through effective communication, collaboration, and alternative dispute resolution techniques.
Leadership and Team Development: Demonstrated capability to lead and inspire diverse teams, provide coaching and mentoring, foster an inclusive work environment, and promote alignment with WSDOT's values and strategic priorities.
Communication and Presentation Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to convey technical information clearly, prepare comprehensive guidance documents, and deliver effective presentations and training sessions.
Relationship Building and Collaboration: Proficiency in building and maintaining productive relationships with internal offices, external agencies, and industry partners to coordinate efforts and ensure shared understanding of construction policies and practices.
Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

Nice To Haves

Field and Documentation Engineering Expertise: Experience serving as a region documentation engineer, field engineer, or office engineer with demonstrated proficiency in applying construction documentation standards, verifying compliance, and supporting effective project delivery.
Construction and Contract Administration Knowledge: Strong foundation in engineering, construction management, or contract administration principles, with the ability to integrate technical knowledge into practical solutions that improve construction processes and policy implementation obtained from extensive experience and/or education.

Responsibilities

Manage the budget and operation of the State Construction Office.
Provide technical expertise to the Regions, Meqa Programs and the Assistant State Construction Engineers regarding contract administration procedures.
Monitor performance of contract administration processes; provide reports and assessments to gauge their effectiveness and make necessary changes to specifications, manuals, and guidance documents.
Coordinate with the Office of Equity and Civil Rights regarding policy changes and implementation of federal and state programs.
Oversee compliance with Federal Training and State Apprenticeship requirements.
Propose, review, and develop research and new technologies, and drive implementation on WSDOT projects.
Oversee FHWA Stewardship Agreement compliance and reporting to ensure continued eligibility for federal funds on federal projects.
Provide leadership and guidance for the State Construction Office training program.
Lead the review and analysis of proposed legislation on behalf of the Construction Division.

Benefits

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.

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