Vessel Project Engineer - Washington State Ferries

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

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Vessel Project Engineer supports the safe, reliable operation of the nation’s largest ferry system through the oversight of critical vessel preservation and repair projects. This position plays a key role in coordinating shipyard repair contracts, managing project scope, schedule, and cost, and helping minimize vessel downtime to maintain dependable service for the traveling public. Working closely with internal teams and contractors, the Vessel Project Engineer helps ensure repair work is completed to high technical and safety standards while supporting efficient ferry operations. This role contributes directly to WSF’s mission by applying sound engineering judgment, collaboration, and continuous improvement to help keep vessels operating safely and reliably for the communities we serve. As WSF navigates a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize its system — guided by its 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

Knowledge of construction contract administration principles, change order processes, and project controls applicable to marine repair and overhaul work.
Demonstrated proficiency in managing contractor performance, evaluating progress against schedule and budget, and approving change orders within delegated authority.
Ability to actively manage cost, scope, and schedule across concurrent preservation projects to deliver assigned work within contract terms and operational windows.
Knowledge of marine vessel systems including propulsion, auxiliary machinery, hull, electrical, and shipboard mechanical systems.
Demonstrated proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings, technical specifications, and condition reports for marine vessels.
Ability to assess vessel material condition, diagnose system deficiencies, and recommend repair approaches that align with operational requirements and industry standards.
Knowledge and ability to develop contract specifications and standards to be used in marine repair and shipyard work.
Demonstrated proficiency in synthesizing input from work orders, planned maintenance schedules, lessons learned, and stakeholder feedback into clear technical scope documents.
Ability to write specifications that are biddable, defensible, and aligned with regulatory and operational requirements.
Knowledge of marine quality assurance practices, inspection protocols, and acceptance standards for shipyard work.
Demonstrated proficiency in directing inspection staff, evaluating contractor-furnished material and workmanship, and processing condition deficiency reports.
Ability to identify noncompliant work and require corrective action consistent with contract terms.
Knowledge of marine regulatory requirements applicable to vessel preservation work, including United States Coast Guard, Environmental Protection Agency, and state-level requirements.
Demonstrated proficiency in coordinating with regulatory agencies during active shipyard work.
Ability to interpret regulations, apply them to in progress repair activity, and communicate compliance expectations to contractors and inspection staff.
Knowledge of effective communication practices across technical and non-technical audiences.
Demonstrated proficiency in facilitating discussions among internal departments, contractors, and regulatory agencies to align on technical direction.
Ability to exercise sound independent judgment, manage workflow without direct supervision, and seek technical guidance when appropriate.
Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
Proven success in fostering and developing constructive and collaborative organization-wide relationships, with the ability to lead through communication and trust-building, seeking and welcoming different perspectives toward shared outcomes.
Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.
Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Demonstrated ability to self-reflect, identify personal and professional strengths and growth areas, and adapt to new challenges through innovative solutions.
Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within six months of hire as required for access to secure maritime and transportation facilities.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated knowledge of marine vessel machinery operation and oversight at a level typically reflected by a United States Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer (Limited-Near Coastal), Second Assistant Engineer Steam, Second Assistant Engineer Motor Vessel Unlimited, or equivalent demonstrated experience overseeing marine vessel machinery systems.
Demonstrated proficiency serving as an owner's representative or shipyard project supervisor responsible for repair, overhaul, or renovation of steam or motor vessels in a commercial or governmental shipyard, with the ability to advocate for the owner's technical and contractual interests during active work.
Familiarity with Washington State contracting rules, public works procurement, or comparable city, county, state, or federal procurement frameworks applied to construction or repair work.
Familiarity with ferry system maintenance environments, fleet preservation cycles, or comparable marine repair operations supporting a recurring service schedule.

Responsibilities

Direct vessel repair and overhaul projects in contractor shipyards to support ferry preservation and reliability.
Provide technical direction to WSF Inspectors and oversee contractor performance, schedules, and work quality.
Negotiate and approve contract change orders, design revisions, and new work scope.
Manage contract administration activities including invoicing, reporting, compliance documentation, logistics, and close-out.
Develop technical specifications and repair plans for vessel preservation and maintenance projects.
Coordinate pre-contract activities, design development, and stakeholder communication for scheduled maintenance availabilities.
Provide engineering guidance to resolve vessel system deficiencies and warranty-related issues.
Serve as the primary liaison between WSF, contractors, and regulatory agencies to ensure inspection, compliance, and contract standards are met.
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.