Assistant Region Administrator - Maintenance & Operations

Assistant Region Administrator - Maintenance & Operations

Salary

$135,000.00 - $165,120.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-OR-3W036

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

10/14/2026

Closing Date

10/30/2026 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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a strategic and experienced leader to oversee Olympic Region's Highway Maintenance, Transportation Equipment Fund, Capital Facilities, Regional Emergency Operations, and Traffic Operations programs. In this critical leadership role, you will guide the delivery of essential transportation services, ensuring highways remain safe and reliable, equipment and facilities are maintained, and the region is prepared to respond to emergencies and traffic incidents. You will lead a large, diverse workforce and manage significant resources to support efficient operations, responsible stewardship of public funds, and the continued movement of people and goods throughout the region.

Through your leadership, you will help strengthen transportation system resilience, enhance public safety, and advance WSDOT's mission to keep people and businesses moving. You will also foster a respectful, inclusive workplace where employees are supported in delivering high-quality service to Washington's communities.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Regional Administrator for Maintenance & Operations will:

• Provide strategic leadership, management, and oversight of the region's Highway Maintenance, Transportation Equipment Fund, Capital Facilities, and Traffic Operations programs, including long-term program requirements, funding, staffing, support services, and budget oversight.
• Serve as Appointing Authority for approximately 480 staff and act as backup to the Region Administrator; lead, plan, organize, and direct Maintenance and Operations employees to ensure effective performance and optimal use of resources.
• Develop, implement, and coordinate regional program policies, procedures, standards, and controls in collaboration with other regions and headquarters to ensure consistency and effective program delivery.
• Ensure maintenance and operations programs comply with applicable state and federal laws, regulations, policies, and Collective Bargaining Agreements; oversee personnel actions, staffing levels, position establishments, leave and travel approvals, and corrective or disciplinary actions.
• Monitor regional activities, projects, and asset conditions through field visits; identify system deficiencies and champion improvements through capital improvement and preservation programs.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders; represent WSDOT in regional, statewide, and national forums, and respond to inquiries and resolve complaints from the public, local and elected officials, and legislators.
• Promote employee safety, engagement, inclusion, workforce diversity, and professional development through clear expectations, training, coaching, mentoring, recognition, and performance guidance.
• Regularly travel throughout the region to visit work zones and remote facilities, monitor project progress, evaluate and train staff, and participate in in-person meetings and stakeholder coordination.

Qualifications

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

• Maintenance and Technical Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge of highway and facility maintenance principles, practices, policies, procedures, regulations, and safety standards. Advanced skills to review, interpret, and develop technical documents, reports, and policy materials to support informed decision-making and program oversight.
• Project and Program Management: Demonstrated ability to lead the planning, development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of complex maintenance and operational programs. Advanced skills in establishing plans and setting objectives and goals that support overall program strategy/results; monitoring, measuring performance, and making necessary course corrections to the same.
• Problem Solving & Decision-Making: The ability to make timely, effective decisions in the best interest of the department based on an array of complex and competing issues. Proven skills to identify issues, evaluate options, and implement practical solutions. Advanced skills in conflict resolution and facilitating constructive dialogue.
• People & Organizational Leadership: Advanced skills in providing strategic direction and oversight for large, complex maintenance and operational programs. Progressively responsible leadership or supervisory experience with a diverse workforce, with demonstrated leadership abilities to work across boundaries; build and maintain effective teams; coach, mentor, and train; and encourage employee engagement. A strong working knowledge of principles of project management and team leadership.
• Regulatory and Policy Knowledge and Application: Demonstrated knowledge of applicable statutes, administrative codes, agency policies, and labor agreements governing maintenance and operations.
• Fiscal Management: Demonstrated experience developing, implementing, and managing large, complex budgets with accountability for financial performance.
• Emergency Management and Incident Command: Demonstrated knowledge of emergency management procedures, operations center management, and incident command systems, and the ability to obtain required National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) certifications and Incident Command System Certifications (ICS) 100, 200, 400, and 700 certifications within six (6) months of appointment.
• Communication and Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical, operational, and policy information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences, including staff, executive leadership, elected officials, and the public. Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external partners and stakeholders to ensure collaboration, transparency, and trust.
• Driver's License: Demonstrated ability to travel to project sites as required to fulfill project responsibilities. A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles
• 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:

• Professional Engineering Certification: Licensed as a Civil Professional Engineer in the State of Washington or currently holding a Civil PE license from another state with the ability to obtain Washington State licensure within six (6) months of hire.
• Public Sector Transportation Maintenance Knowledge: Demonstrated experience in maintenance and operation roles within large public sector transportation organizations.
• Knowledge of American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards.
• Knowledge of Washington State and local agency guidelines

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers some flexible/hybrid remote work options and will require regular in-person office time.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.
• 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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 Assistant Regional Construction Engineer #3W036 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

Do you have knowledge of emergency management procedures, operations center management, and Incident Command System (ICS) principles, and are you able to obtain the required National Incident Management System (NIMS) and ICS certifications (100, 200, 400, and 700) within six (6) months of appointment?

• Yes, I have experience managing emergency operations, am knowledgeable in incident command, and can obtain the required certifications within six months.
• Yes, I have participated in emergency response operations, understand incident command principles, and can obtain the required certifications within six months.
• I have emergency management or incident command training and can obtain the required certifications within six months.
• I have limited knowledge of emergency management or incident command but can obtain the required certifications within six months.
• No, I am unable to obtain the required certifications within six months of appointment.

02

Do you possess a valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles to travel throughout the region, including to work zones, remote facilities, and project sites, as required for this position?

• Yes, I possess a valid driver's license and can operate state-owned vehicles to travel throughout the region as required.
• I possess a valid driver's license and can travel to most regional locations but would need to address limitations related to some travel requirements.
• I do not currently possess a valid driver's license but expect to obtain one.
• I possess a valid driver's license but cannot meet the field travel requirements of this position.
• No, I do not possess a valid driver's license or the ability to meet the position's travel requirements.

03

Which statement best describes your experience leading or supervising employees and overseeing maintenance, transportation, facilities, or operational programs?

• I have provided strategic leadership and oversight for large, complex programs and a diverse workforce, including setting direction, managing resources, developing leaders, and ensuring program results.
• I have managed multiple programs or teams, established priorities, allocated resources, monitored performance, and coached supervisors or employees.
• I have supervised a team or operational unit, assigned work, evaluated performance, and supported employee development.
• I have served as a lead worker or project lead, coordinated assignments, and provided guidance or training to colleagues.
• I have not yet held a formal leadership, supervisory, or lead-worker role.

04

Please briefly describe your experience leading or supervising employees and overseeing maintenance, transportation, facilities or operational programs? If you do not have this experience, please put N/A.

05

Which statement best describes your experience planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating complex maintenance or operational programs?

• I have directed multiple complex programs, established long-term strategies and performance measures, evaluate results, and implemented corrective actions to achieve organizational goals.
• I have managed a major program or multiple projects, developed implementation plans and objectives, monitored performance, and adjusted strategies to address changing needs.
• I have managed individual projects or operational programs, established schedules and objectives, tracked progress, and resolved delivery issues.
• I have coordinated project activities or supported program implementation, tracked assigned tasks, and reported progress to leadership.
• I have limited or no experience planning, implementing, or monitoring projects or programs.

06

Please briefly describe your experience planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating complex maintenance or operational programs. If you do not have this experience, please put N/A.

07

Which statement best describes your experience developing, implementing, and managing budgets for maintenance, transportation, facilities, or operational programs?

• I have developed and managed large, complex budgets across multiple programs, established funding priorities, monitored financial performance, and made strategic adjustments to ensure accountability.
• I have managed substantial program budgets, forecast funding needs, monitored expenditures, and implemented corrective actions to address variances.
• I have managed a unit or project budget, tracked expenditures, prepared budget reports, and supported resource allocation decisions.
• I have assisted with budget development, expenditure tracking, financial reporting, or funding requests.
• I have limited or no experience with budget development or financial management.

08

Briefly describe your experience developing, implementing, and managing budgets for maintenance, transportation, facilities, or operational programs. If you do not have this experience, please put N/A.

09

Which statement best describes your experience applying highway, transportation, or facility maintenance principles, policies, procedures, regulations, and safety standards?

• I have provided technical and strategic oversight of complex maintenance and operations programs, interpreted and developed technical policies and documents, and used technical analysis to guide decisions and improve performance.
• I have evaluated maintenance practices and technical documents, interpreted applicable standards and regulations, and provided technical guidance for program implementation.
• I have applied maintenance standards, reviewed technical documents and reports, and resolved technical issues within an operational unit or project.
• I have supported maintenance activities by following established procedures, reviewing basic documentation, or assisting with technical reports.
• I have limited or no experience applying maintenance principles, technical standards, or related regulations.

10

Briefly describe your experience applying highway, transportation, or facility maintenance principles, policies, procedures, regulations, and safety standards. If you do not have this experience, please put N/A.

11

Which statement best describes your experience interpreting and applying statutes, administrative codes, agency policies, labor agreements, and regulatory requirements relevant to maintenance and operations?

• I have developed and implemented policies and procedures, ensured organizational compliance with applicable laws and labor agreements, and advised leadership on complex regulatory or policy issues.
• I have interpreted regulatory requirements and labor agreements, established procedures, monitored compliance, and resolved significant compliance issues.
• I have applied applicable policies, regulations, and labor agreements in daily operations and addressed compliance concerns within my area of responsibility.
• I have followed established policies and procedures and referred complex regulatory or labor agreement questions to appropriate staff.
• I have limited or no experience applying regulatory requirements, agency policies, or labor agreements.

12

Briefly describe your experience interpreting and applying statutes, administrative codes, agency policies, labor agreements, and regulatory requirements relevant to maintenance and operations. If you do not have this experience, please put N/A.

13

Which statement best describes your experience communicating technical, operational, or policy information and working with diverse internal and external stakeholders?

• I have represented an organization in high-level regional, statewide, or national forums; communicated complex issues to executives, elected officials, and the public; and built partnerships to advance strategic objectives.
• I have regularly advised executive leadership and coordinated with multiple agencies, elected officials, and community stakeholders to resolve complex issues and achieve shared goals.
• I have communicated technical or operational information to staff, managers, and external partners and resolved stakeholder concerns within my area of responsibility.
• I have provided routine updates, responded to inquiries, and coordinated work with internal teams or external contacts.
• I have limited or no experience communicating complex information or coordinating with external stakeholders.

14

Briefly describe your experience communicating technical, operational, or policy information and working with diverse internal and external stakeholders. If you do not have this experience, please put N/A.

15

Which statement best describes your background in public sector transportation maintenance and your knowledge of AASHTO standards and Washington State or local agency guidelines?

• I have extensive experience leading maintenance and operations programs within a large public-sector transportation organization and applying AASHTO standards and Washington State or local agency guidelines.
• I have significant experience managing transportation maintenance or operations programs and applying relevant technical standards and agency guidelines.
• I have direct experience performing or overseeing transportation maintenance activities and working with applicable standards or agency guidelines.
• I have related maintenance, engineering, facilities, or operational experience with limited exposure to public transportation standards and guidelines.
• I have limited or no experience in transportation maintenance or applying related technical standards and agency guidelines.

16

Briefly describe your background in public sector transportation maintenance and your knowledge of AASHTO standards and Washington State or local agency guidelines. If you do not have this experience, please put N/A.

17

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)

18

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