Assistant Regional Construction Engineer (WMS Band 3)

Assistant Regional Construction Engineer (WMS Band 3)

Salary

$122,400.00 - $149,724.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-OR-3W017

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

07/14/2026

Closing Date

7/27/2026 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 seeking an experienced Assistant Regional Construction Engineer to join the Olympic Region in Lacey, WA. In this influential leadership role, youll provide strategic direction, engineering oversight, and program management for construction activities across as many as four Project Engineering Offices. Youll help ensure transportation projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and in compliance with WSDOT policies, contract requirements, and the agencys commitment to quality, accountability, and exceptional customer service.

As a key member of the regional leadership team, youll make independent decisions, provide guidance on staffing and resource allocation, and support the successful delivery of the regions construction program. Your leadership will directly advance WSDOTs mission by delivering resilient transportation infrastructure while fostering a workplace built on respect, collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Regional Construction Engineer will:

• Provides leadership and senior-level direction, support, management and engineering oversight of the construction program activities for up to four Project Engineering Offices to ensure the construction program is delivered in conformance with applicable policies and department expectations for customer service, transparency, and accountability.
• Collaborate and build effective working relationships, internally and externally to accomplish organizational goals.
• Represent WSDOT via email, telephone, or in person with the public, media, industry, FHWA, local agencies and elected officials.
• Develop and implement efficient and effective strategies to optimize utilization of staff and resources for successful delivery of the Region Construction program.
• Model leadership and performance characteristics that promote professionalism, integrity, accountability and effective stewardship.

Qualifications

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

• Professional Licensure: Registration as a Professional Engineer in Civil Engineering within the State of Washington (License holders from other states will be expected to obtain a WA State PE license within six months of appointment).
• Engineering & Construction Management: Applies sound engineering judgment and extensive knowledge of construction principles, contract administration, and program delivery, including budget, schedule, environmental, and quality accountability.
• Strategic Planning and Program Management: Develops strategic plans, sets performance objectives, monitors results, and implements corrective actions to achieve program goals.
• Communication and Stakeholder Relations: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with executives, employees, elected officials, industry partners, media, and the public while addressing customer needs and concerns.
• Contract Administration and Decision-Making: Ability to evaluate and resolve complex contractual issues and disputes, making timely decisions that support organizational objectives
• Leadership and Workforce Development: Demonstrated ability to leads and develops a diverse workforce while fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• 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:

• Technical Civil Engineering Expertise: Advanced civil engineering knowledge, typically gained through a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field; Extensive progressive experience in the design, construction, and maintenance of transportation infrastructure, including highways and bridges.
• Leadership & Alternative Project Delivery Management: Demonstrated experience leading and managing teams with a track record of progressively responsible supervisory experience, while effectively administering complex projects, including those delivered through alternative delivery methods.

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 amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov Please be sure to reference Assistant Regional Construction Engineer #3W017 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

Which statement best describes your experience leading engineering and construction programs?

• I have led multiple large and/or complex transportation construction programs, providing engineering oversight for project delivery, including contract administration, budget, schedule, environmental compliance, quality assurance, risk management, and staff leadership.
• I have managed several transportation construction projects or programs with responsibility for engineering oversight, contract administration, budget, schedule, quality, and compliance.
• I have served as a project engineer or construction engineer responsible for one or more aspects of construction management, such as inspection, contract administration, quality assurance, or project delivery.
• I have assisted with engineering or construction activities but have not had primary responsibility for project or program delivery.
• I have no experience with engineering or construction management.

02

Please briefly describe your experience leading engineering and construction programs. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

03

Have you been responsible for developing or managing program or project budgets?

• Yes
• No

04

Please briefly describe your experience developing or managing program or project budgets. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

05

Which statement best describes your experience developing and managing strategic or operational programs?

• I have developed long-term strategic plans, established organizational performance measures, monitored results, allocated resources, and implemented corrective actions for multiple programs or business units.
• I have managed one or more programs by establishing goals, monitoring performance, managing resources, and implementing improvements.
• I have participated in program planning and performance tracking and contributed recommendations to improve program outcomes.
• I have supported program activities but have not been responsible for planning or performance management.
• I have no experience with strategic planning or program management.

06

Which statement best describes your experience communicating with diverse stakeholders?

• I have regularly represented an organization before executives, elected officials, regulatory agencies, industry partners, media, and the public while resolving complex or sensitive issues.
• I have routinely communicated with executives, external partners, customers, and project stakeholders regarding complex technical or operational matters.
• I have communicated with project teams, contractors, customers, or internal stakeholders regarding project status, technical issues, or operational activities.
• My communication experience has primarily been limited to coworkers or supervisors.
• I have little or no experience communicating with stakeholders in a professional setting.

07

Which statement best describes your experience administering contracts and resolving contractual issues?

• I have served as the primary decision-maker for complex construction contracts, resolving claims, negotiating contract changes, interpreting specifications, and making decisions with significant financial or operational impacts.
• I have administered construction contracts, evaluated contract issues, negotiated changes, and resolved disputes with minimal supervision.
• I have supported contract administration activities, including reviewing documentation, processing change orders, or assisting with issue resolution.
• I have limited exposure to contract administration but have not been responsible for resolving contractual issues.
• I have no experience administering contracts.

08

Please briefly describe your experience administering contracts and resolving contractual issues. Include any experience that you have with alternative delivery methods. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

09

Which statement best describes your leadership experience?

• I have led multiple teams or organizational units by establishing vision and expectations, developing leaders, managing performance, fostering an inclusive workplace, and leading organizational change.
• I have supervised professional or technical staff, including assigning work, coaching employees, conducting performance evaluations, and supporting employee development.
• I have served as a lead worker, project lead, or mentor by coordinating work, providing technical guidance, and assisting with employee development.
• I have worked as a team member but have not had formal leadership responsibilities.
• I have no leadership or supervisory experience.

10

Please briefly describe your leadership experience. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

11

Have you supervised professional engineering or construction staff?

• Yes
• No

12

Please briefly describe your experience supervising professional engineering or construction staff? If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

13

Do you have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?

• Yes
• No

14

Do you have a Professional Engineer (PE) License within the state of Washington?

• Yes
• No
• No, but I have a PE license in another state.

15

If you do have a current Civil Engineering PE license within the state of Washington, please provide the license number in the space provided. If you do not have this, please provide a description of ability to obtain active registration as a Civil Engineer in the state of Washington within six (6) months of the date of hire.

16

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)

17

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