Small Works Project Engineer - Washington State Ferries

State of Washington • Kitsap County – Other, WA

17h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency responsible for planning, designing, building, and operating an integrated transportation system for the state. Washington State Ferries (WSF), a division of WSDOT, is seeking a Project Engineer to support critical vessel repair and maintenance projects. This role acts as WSF’s field representative for dockside repair contracts, coordinating complex maintenance activities to ensure efficient, safe, and compliant work. The position collaborates with maintenance teams, inspection staff, and contractors to minimize service disruptions and support the long-term reliability of the ferry system. This role is crucial during WSF's transformation to decarbonize its system, guided by core values of Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow, and Navigate, and strategic priorities of Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People.

Requirements

• Knowledge of marine engineering principles, vessel systems, and dockside maintenance and repair practices sufficient to write accurate technical specifications and oversee contract work.
• Familiarity with marine regulations and regulatory processes (e.g., USCG, EPA, state and federal requirements).
• Ability to read and interpret technical specifications, engineering drawings, and plans.
• Knowledge of costing, pricing, and budgeting practices applicable to marine repair contracts.
• Ability to develop and administer contracts from specification development through project closeout.
• Skill in evaluating project milestones, managing schedules, and determining weekly production metrics.
• Ability to exercise sound, independent professional judgment in making decisions and providing advice.
• Skill in analyzing problems, coordinating between managers, inspectors, and officials to ensure effective and economical resolution.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse set of customers and peers including contractors, regulators, vessel crews, and agency staff.
• Skill in preparing and presenting project-related reports related to assigned projects.
• Skill in utilizing database systems and software to support project tracking, reporting, and documentation.
• Service-Oriented – Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Growth Mindset – Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

Nice To Haves

• Valid USCG license as a Chief Engineer (Limited-near Coastal) or as Second Assistant Engineer Steam and/or Motor Vessel Unlimited, or equivalent demonstrated experience in responsible charge of marine vessel machinery systems.
• Experience as an owner's representative or shipyard project supervisor with responsibility for repair, overhaul, or renovation of steam or motor vessels in a commercial or governmental shipyard.
• Familiarity with Washington State contracting rules including small works roster procurement processes.
• Experience working in ferry system maintenance environments or comparable marine repair facilities.

Responsibilities

• Direct dockside vessel maintenance and repair projects under small works contracts supporting WSF vessel preservation and reliability.
• Coordinate and provide technical direction to WSF Inspectors, approve payments, negotiate change orders, and complete contract administration and regulatory reporting.
• Develop technical specifications, review engineer’s estimates, and manage execution of small works vessel repair contracts.
• Provide engineering analysis, recommendations, and design revisions to resolve vessel system deficiencies and support project execution.
• Coordinate pre-contract activities, including design development, operational input, information sharing, and lessons learned from prior contracts.
• Process inspection reports, condition found reports, and other documentation required to administer the contract from inception to final close-out, including payment.
• Oversee OMWBE goals, contract compliance, inspection and progress reporting, and contract close-out documentation.
• Serve as WSF’s liaison with contractors and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with contract requirements, regulations, and agency standards.
• Interpret contract specifications, drawings, and procedures, and evaluate contractor work and vessel system performance through warranty completion.
• 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.
• Comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options.
• State retirement programs.

What This Job Offers

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