Program Development and Operations Engineer – TE3

About WSDOT
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. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a Program Development and Operations Engineer (Transportation Engineer 3) to support the planning, coordination, and delivery of highway construction projects within the Southwest Region. In this role, you will provide technical assistance to project teams to help ensure project scopes address identified needs and that projects are delivered on schedule and within budget. The position plays a key role in maintaining and updating the regional highway construction program, administering work order authorizations, and reporting project information to internal and external stakeholders. You will also coordinate with project offices to document budget, scope, and schedule changes throughout the project lifecycle. Safety for employees, coworkers, and the traveling public is a top priority in all aspects of this work.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Program Development and Operations Engineer will:

• Coordinate the identification of project deficiencies and develop solutions for projects proposed for inclusion in the Capital Improvement Preservation Program (CIPP) in collaboration with regional and headquarters staff.
• Oversee the incorporation of assigned projects into Capital Connect and verify that scoping documentation is complete and aligned with current programming instructions and policies.
• Analyze Capital Connect files to ensure accuracy, completeness, and appropriate aging of planned and actual expenditures.
• Manage project funding by preparing and reviewing Work Order Authorizations and updating the State Transportation Improvement Plan for improvement and preservation projects.
• Monitor project expenditures and funding sources to ensure alignment with approved schedules, budgets, and federal aid agreements while resolving complex work order issues.
• Coordinate regional reporting for highway construction projects by tracking scope, schedule, and budget changes and working with project offices to gather required information.
• Document project scope, schedule, and budget changes using established change management processes and ensure updates are reported in a timely manner.
• Supervise assigned staff by planning and reviewing work, approving timesheets and leave, conducting performance evaluations, and supporting employee development and training.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

• Advanced Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Proficiency working with numerical data from multiple sources to develop spreadsheets, analyze information, and clearly convey budgetary and financial details.
• Communication and Collaboration: Advanced skills in professional communication, and strong interpersonal and written communication skills to work effectively with program managers, project offices, and other internal partners. Ability to coordinate project updates, prepare professional documentation, and contribute to a respectful and inclusive team environment.
• Time Management and Adaptability: Ability to manage multiple deadlines and tasks in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Adjusts to changing priorities while maintaining accuracy, meeting reporting cycles, and supporting project development and delivery. 
• Technology Proficiency: Advanced skills using computers and standard business software, including Microsoft Office, to create and maintain reports, spreadsheets, and project documentation. Capability to learn and effectively use new software systems and apply lessons learned to improve future work performance.
• Leadership: Ability to foster collaboration, build and maintain effective teams, coach and mentor staff, and/or encourage engagement and professional growth.

• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
  
  

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated skill in applying engineering principles, methods, and practices to manage project activities across multiple phases and making decisions regarding scope, schedule, and budget. 
• High Level Collaboration and Leadership: Proven ability to work independently, provide guidance to project teams, and support staff, including setting expectations and ensuring accountability to meet program and project objectives.
• Workload Management and Problem-Solving: Proven skills in successfully prioritizing competing demands, meeting deadlines, and resolving complex or challenging issues through sound judgment and critical thinking. 
• Program Management: Knowledge of and Exposure to multi-source funding and work order processes, including assisting with fund setup, monitoring expenditures against approved budgets, and supporting resolution of issues related to cost changes or authorization requirements.

Important Notes 

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position may be eligible for 100% remote work. Out-of-state remote work is not guaranteed and must comply with Washington State and agency policies. Approval is based on business needs and applicable laws. For more information, visit WA State OFM. 
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code. 
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov. 

Why WSDOT 

• Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle.
• 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. Go to State Benefits for more information. 

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. 

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. 

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
 
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at yasmin.munoz@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SWR-40548 in the subject line. 

Salary : $78,912 - $106,104