Area Engineer

Area Engineer

Salary

$8,636.00 - $11,078.00 Monthly

Location

Clark County - Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-SWR-4W066

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Southwest Region

Opening Date

06/22/2026

Closing Date

7/13/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

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 manages the worlds longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a collaborative and strategic leader to serve as the Area Engineer for the Clark County Engineering Office within the Southwest Region. In this role, you will provide leadership and direction for the development, design, and construction delivery of transportation projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with agency goals and priorities. You will lead a diverse team of technical professionals while coordinating with stakeholders, local agencies, the public, and regional and headquarters subject matter experts to deliver successful project outcomes.

This position plays a critical role in fostering collaboration among engineering, maintenance, traffic, planning, and local partners to ensure transportation decisions reflect the needs and priorities of the communities we serve. As the Area Engineer, you will guide project development and delivery in accordance with WSDOTs Strategic Plan, Vision, Mission, and Values while promoting excellence in customer service, regulatory compliance, and sound engineering practices for both internal and external customers.

What to Expect

Responsible for managing transportation projects to ensure the accurate application of agency policies, standards, and engineering practices while delivering projects on time, within budget, and in compliance with environmental requirements. This position provides leadership in safety, project delivery, and engineering oversight, including professional stamping authority for work produced within the assigned area. The incumbent collaborates with regional leadership and partner units to implement agency priorities, coordinate transportation programs and policies, ensure appropriate mitigation for development impacts, and lead emergency response and recovery efforts for transportation infrastructure.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Area Engineer will:

• Act as the primary point of contact for all Capital Construction Program activities for the specified geographic area, representing the department to the media, public, local jurisdictions, elected officials, and businesses.
• Be responsible for facilitating the resolution of issues within the Program and the assigned area.
• Provide management and leadership for area program development, design, environmental compliance, and construction administration for specified area by establishing and implementing policies and procedures that promote efficient use of resources and tax dollars. This responsibility also includes management of consultant agreements.
• Lead the development of a well-trained, motivated, and diverse workforce. Restructuring organization as needed to improve efficiency and utilize resources in the most beneficial manner. Empower staff to have more control of procedures and outcomes with clearly defined accountabilities.
• Coordinate with Maintenance to define programming needs, provide technical assistance on issues, and manage the development and administration of emergency contracts.
• Coordinate with local agencies to effectively address needs associated with the State transportation system and to provide technical assistance, as needed. Involve local agencies in the development of projects to allow combining of projects on adjacent local facilities to ensure cost effective project delivery.
• Facilitate partnering and maintain effective working relationships with Federal, State, County, and City officials to assure compliance with the laws, regulations, and policies within their respective jurisdictions. Facilitate partnering and maintain effective working relationships with private contractors and consultants to ensure compliance with the laws, regulations and policies on construction contracts and consultant agreements.
• Manage the development and administration of agreements developed with developers related to the State transportation system to ensure that the interests of the State are met.

Qualifications

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

• Professional Licensure: Licensed as a Professional Engineer in the state of Washington or licensed as a PE in another state with the ability to obtain licensure in Washington State within six (6) months of hire.
• Highway and Bridge Engineering Expertise: Extensive experience in highway and bridge design and construction, with the ability to apply advanced civil engineering principles to complex transportation projects.
• Management and Leadership Skills: Demonstrated strategic leadership and knowledge of management principles with proven ability to apply them effectively while leading and collaborating with diverse teams.
• Problem-Solving and Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work with others to resolve major design and construction changes, disputes, claims, and problems.
• Contract Administration Knowledge: Understanding of contract administration policy and construction contract law.
• Workforce Planning and Personnel Management: Ability to plan workforce needs, manage personnel effectively, and mentor staff to improve performance.
• Environmental and Regulatory Knowledge: Experience working with environmental and permitting agencies and applying regulations related to noise ordinances, wetlands, surface water runoff, water quality, sensitive areas, air quality, and shoreline permits.
• Engineering Leadership & Contract Management: Demonstrated strong engineering background with proven experience managing construction contracts and supervising engineering staff to deliver complex transportation projects.
• Program Planning, Decision-Making & Project Accountability: Ability to apply in-depth knowledge of design, construction, and contract administration principles to establish goals, monitor progress, make timely decisions, and ensure transportation projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to quality, environmental, and organizational standards.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Skills to communicate effectively with employees, leadership, and the public while evaluating and responding to stakeholder needs.
• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Consultant & Construction Contract Management: Experience managing engineering consultants and administering construction contracts.
• FHWA Process Knowledge: Familiarity with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) processes, procedures, and requirements for delivering federally funded transportation projects. Ability to ensure compliance with federal stewardship obligations, documentation, and reporting standards.
• Change Management: Demonstrated knowledge and experience managing organizational or project-level changes. Ability to lead teams through transitions in scope, structure, policy, or project delivery approach using effective change management strategies.
• Public Sector Transportation Skills: Experience delivering capital transportation projects within a public-sector environment.
• Advanced Engineering & Management Experience: Possesses progressively responsible experience as a licensed professional engineer in highway or bridge construction/design and supervisory experience managing a diverse workforce.
• Advanced Alternative Delivery Experience: Demonstrated, progressively responsible experience managing projects through a variety of delivery methods, including Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, CMGC, and Progressive Design-Build.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 2% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• This position requires periodic travel across the region and availability to respond to emergency situations as needed, including outside standard business hours.
• 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• 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 a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

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 of 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 recruiter listed.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SWR-4W066 in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Are you currently licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Washington State?

• Yes
• No
• No, but I am licensed as a PE in another state and can obtain Washington State licensure within six (6) months of hire.

02

What best describes your experience applying highway and bridge engineering principles to transportation design and construction projects?

• Extensive experience leading complex highway and bridge design and construction projects and serving as the responsible engineer.
• Advanced experience independently managing highway and bridge design or construction projects.
• Intermediate experience supporting highway and bridge design or construction projects.
• Basic experience with highway or bridge engineering principles.
• No experience.

03

What best describes your experience leading and managing diverse teams?

• Extensive experience providing strategic leadership, supervising managers or professional staff, and leading large multidisciplinary teams.
• Advanced experience supervising professional staff and leading complex work groups.
• Intermediate experience serving as a team lead or project lead.
• Basic experience coordinating the work of others.
• No experience.

04

Describe your experience leading teams, establishing priorities, and achieving organizational goals. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

05

What best describes your experience working with others to resolve major project issues, disputes, claims, design changes, or construction challenges?

• Extensive experience leading resolution efforts for complex disputes, claims, or major project changes.
• Advanced experience resolving significant project issues with multiple stakeholders.
• Intermediate experience participating in issue resolution efforts.
• Basic experience supporting problem-solving activities.
• No experience.

06

What best describes your knowledge of construction contract administration and contract law?

• Extensive knowledge with direct responsibility for administering complex construction contracts.
• Advanced knowledge and regular application of contract administration principles.
• Intermediate knowledge gained through project delivery responsibilities.
• Basic familiarity with contract administration concepts.
• No experience.

07

Describe your experience administering construction contracts, including your role and responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

08

What best describes your experience planning workforce needs, managing personnel, and mentoring employees?

• Extensive experience overseeing workforce planning, performance management, and staff development programs.
• Advanced experience supervising employees and mentoring staff.
• Intermediate experience leading work groups and supporting employee development.
• Basic experience assigning or coordinating work.
• No experience.

09

Describe your experience ensuring transportation projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and in compliance with quality and environmental requirements. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

10

What best describes your experience communicating with stakeholders, leadership, employees, and the public?

• Extensive experience representing an organization on complex or high-profile issues.
• Advanced experience regularly engaging with diverse stakeholder groups.
• Intermediate experience presenting information and coordinating with stakeholders.
• Basic experience communicating project information.
• No experience.

11

What best describes your experience leading organizational or project-level change?

• Extensive experience leading significant organizational or programmatic change initiatives.
• Advanced experience implementing major project or operational changes.
• Intermediate experience supporting change management efforts.
• Basic exposure to change management principles.
• No experience.

12

Describe your experience managing projects through Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, CMGC, Progressive Design-Build, or other delivery methods. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

13

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

14

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov