Naval Architect 1 - Washington State Ferries

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

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a Naval Architect to support the design, preservation, and continuous improvement of Washington State Ferries' (WSF) vessels. This role is crucial for ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient ferry service. The Naval Architect will provide professional engineering expertise for vessel modifications, regulatory compliance, and new vessel design, contributing to the long-term reliability and performance of the nation's largest ferry system. This position involves collaborative work with engineering staff, regulatory agencies, and project partners to develop innovative solutions that enhance fleet safety, operational readiness, and service to the communities. The role also supports WSF's core values and mission of providing safe, dependable transportation, especially during the agency's transformation to decarbonize its system.

Requirements

• Experience supporting vessel design, repair, modification, or construction projects within a shipyard, marine engineering, or naval architecture environment.
• Experience using engineering software and standard computer applications to support engineering design, analysis, documentation, and project delivery.
• Demonstrated ability to apply engineering principles to evaluate vessel structures, hydrostatics, stability, and shipboard systems, and develop technically sound engineering recommendations.
• Skill in interpreting and preparing engineering drawings, technical specifications, calculations, reports, and other engineering design documentation.
• Ability to analyze complex engineering issues, apply sound engineering judgment, and develop effective solutions related to vessel systems, structures, and performance.
• Ability to work collaboratively with Preservation Project Engineers, Staff Chiefs, and multidisciplinary teams to support engineering projects and resolve technical issues.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly and effectively with engineers, vessel personnel, contractors, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders through both written and verbal communication.

Nice To Haves

• Experience applying U.S. Coast Guard regulations, Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVICs), or other marine industry standards applicable to passenger vessels.
• Knowledge of public sector policies, procedures, contracting requirements, or regulatory processes relevant to engineering or capital projects.
• Experience using marine engineering and design software such as GHS, AutoCAD, Navisworks, Rhino3D, or comparable engineering applications.

Responsibilities

• 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
• Plan, design, and execute naval architectural and structural engineering projects for WSF vessels and facilities.
• Prepare, review, sign, and seal engineering drawings, calculations, specifications, estimates, and technical reports.
• Analyze vessel performance and develop engineering solutions for structural modifications and improvements.
• Coordinate with engineering staff, operations, contractors, consultants, and regulatory agencies to support project delivery.
• Review designs, conduct ship checks, and ensure work complies with project specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical oversight and develop task statements and cost estimates for capital and maintenance projects.
• Review consultant work and evaluate structural installations and marine equipment.
• Mentor and train engineering staff and support the development of installation packages.

Benefits

• Flexible/hybrid remote work options
• 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