Journey Machinist - Washington State Ferries

State of Washington • Kitsap County – Other, WA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a skilled Marine Machinist and Diesel Mechanic to support the safe and reliable operation of the Washington State Ferry system. This role is crucial for maintaining vessel and terminal operations by performing essential maintenance and repair work on marine equipment and systems, adhering to Federal, State, and U.S. Coast Guard regulations. The position involves both independent and collaborative work to ensure vessels are operational and ready to serve the public. Employees in this role respond to equipment issues around the clock and contribute to WSF’s mission of providing dependable transportation. This is a meaningful opportunity to join WSF during a significant transformation to decarbonize its system, guided by core values and strategic priorities.

Requirements

• Journey-Level Machining Experience – Demonstrated experience as a journey-level machinist, completion of a recognized apprenticeship, or equivalent mechanical and machining experience in an industrial, marine, or related environment.
• Mechanical Troubleshooting and Diagnostics – Experience diagnosing, troubleshooting, and resolving mechanical, hydraulic, fluid power, or equipment system failures.
• Precision Machining and Fabrication – Experience performing precision machining, fabrication, equipment repair, or component overhaul while interpreting specifications, schematics, blueprints, or technical documentation.
• Preventative Maintenance and Repair – Experience performing preventative maintenance, inspections, repairs, and operational support on mechanical or fluid power systems and equipment.
• Work Planning and Prioritization – Demonstrated ability to independently prioritize, organize, and complete multiple maintenance or repair assignments within operational timelines.
• Teamwork and Collaboration – Experience working collaboratively with maintenance teams, operations staff, supervisors, contractors, or other stakeholders to support operational goals and resolve equipment issues.
• Safety Compliance and Hazard Awareness – Knowledge of workplace safety practices, hazard recognition, and compliance with applicable safety procedures, regulations, or industry standards.
• Written and Verbal Communication – Ability to communicate maintenance activities, operational needs, repair status, and technical information clearly through verbal communication and written documentation.
• Adaptability and Continuous Learning – Demonstrated willingness to learn new systems, processes, equipment, or technologies and adapt to changing operational priorities.
• Customer Service and Public Service Support – Demonstrated commitment to supporting team operations, responding to operational needs, and contributing to reliable public service.
• Respiratory Protection Compliance – Ability to complete annual respiratory questionnaire and fit testing requirements, including obtaining a skin-to-rubber seal.
• Drug and Alcohol Screening Compliance – Ability to meet pre-employment drug screening requirements and participate in random drug and alcohol testing programs.
• Credential and License Maintenance – Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within 90 days of hire and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Physical Work Capacity – Ability to safely lift, carry, push, pull, or move tools, equipment, and materials weighing up to 50 lbs., work extended hours, and sit or stand for prolonged periods.
• Attendance and Worksite Reliability – Demonstrated ability to report regularly to assigned workplaces and worksites and support operational response needs.

Nice To Haves

• Rigging and Heavy Equipment Support – Experience supporting or performing rigging, lifting, or movement of heavy equipment in industrial, shipyard, or marine environments.
• Emergency and Unplanned Maintenance Response – Experience responding to equipment failures, operational disruptions, or urgent maintenance needs in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Heavy Equipment Coordination – Experience safely coordinating, supporting, or assisting with heavy equipment movement and rigging operations using established safety procedures and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform planned and emergency troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul of marine propulsion, hydraulic, steering, pump, and auxiliary systems.
• Repair and overhaul sewage, potable water, raw water, fuel, oil transfer, and saltwater pumps.
• Diagnose and repair hydraulic systems, including watertight doors, boat davits, steering systems, and terminal ramps.
• Perform preventative maintenance on assigned vessel and terminal equipment.
• Operate machine shop equipment, including lathes, milling machines, and drill presses.
• Remove, replace, and precision align pumps and motors using dial indicators and laser tooling.
• Utilize rigging equipment and cranes to support maintenance and repair work.
• Manage work assignments, adapt to changing priorities, and prepare related reports and documentation.
• 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.

Benefits

• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may 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.

What This Job Offers

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