Engineering Manager for Construction - Washington State Ferries

State of Washington•King County - Seattle – Belltown, WA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

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. Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washington's transportation network. Every year, we carry nearly 20 million passengers across Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on more than 400 sailings a day. Our dedicated teams with over 2,100 people work together to serve our communities and shape the future of ferry travel. WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking an Engineering Manager to lead the successful delivery of terminal electrification construction projects that support the future of Washington's ferry system. This position plays a critical role in advancing one of the state's most significant transportation initiatives by overseeing construction execution and fostering collaboration across WSF, partner agencies, and industry stakeholders. Through strategic leadership and sound decision-making, this role helps ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to ferry operations and the traveling public. The work performed directly supports WSF's mission to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable ferry service for the people of Washington. As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system — guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow Navigate, and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People — there’s never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.

Requirements

Extensive Construction Program Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead construction delivery of complex infrastructure projects and coordinate multidisciplinary teams.
Extensive Contract Administration & Delivery Method experience: Demonstrated ability to administer construction contracts, including Design-Build and/or Design-Bid-Build.
Engineering & Technical Integration: Demonstrated ability to interpret engineering plans and guide technical decision-making across disciplines. A strong, experienced background in technical aspects of engineering/construction is absolutely necessary.
Some combination of the following (Utilities, Structural Engineering, Marine Engineering, and /or Construction Administration) are key technical skills needed.
Risk, Budget and Schedule Management: Demonstrated ability to manage construction cost, schedule and risk.
Regulatory Compliance & Coordination: Demonstrated ability to ensure compliance with safety, environmental and regulatory requirements.
Communication and Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical information and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
Independent Judgment and Decision Making: Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions in complex construction environments.
Growth Mindset – Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth
Service-Oriented – Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others

Nice To Haves

Marine / Waterfront Construction: Demonstrated ability to support or oversee construction of marine terminals or similar infrastructure.
Electrification or Utility Infrastructure: Demonstrated ability to support construction or integration of electrical or utility systems.
Federal Funding & Regulatory Environment: Demonstrated ability to work on projects subject to federal funding or complex regulatory requirements.
Leadership & Team Development: Demonstrated ability to mentor, guide, or supervise staff.
Project Management & Continuous Improvement: Demonstrated ability to apply project management practices and improve delivery processes.
Relevant certifications or licensure such as Professional Engineer (PE) or PMP.

Responsibilities

Lead construction delivery of terminal electrification projects across multiple WSF terminals.
Manage Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build construction contracts, including contractor performance, schedule, cost, quality, and contract administration.
Oversee construction engineering, project execution, change management, risk management, and construction standards.
Coordinate with WSF, WSDOT, regulatory agencies, and external partners to support successful project delivery.
Ensure compliance with WSDOT policies, federal requirements, environmental permits, safety standards, and engineering requirements.
Report project status, risks, and issues to executive leadership and support program reporting.
Lead contractor negotiations, dispute resolution, and claims management.
Supervise project engineers, inspectors, and support staff while ensuring professional engineering oversight, as applicable.
Uphold WSF’s strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF’s culture through leadership actions.