Engineering Manager - SR 520 Construction (WMS3)

Engineering Manager - SR 520 Construction (WMS3)

Salary

$128,520.00 - $157,200.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle - Downtown Business, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-8W163

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Urban Mobility Access & Mega Programs

Opening Date

08/24/2026

Closing Date

9/13/2026 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 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 an Engineering Manager in Seattle, WA to oversee the Project Offices tasked with managing WSDOT and consultant staff working to deliver the SR 520 Portage Bay Bridge and Roanoke Lid Project. This position leads integrated WSDOT and consultant teams responsible for construction operations, environmental compliance, traffic impacts, third-party coordination, design support, right of way and utilities, testing and materials, and public and agency communications. The candidate selected for this role will manage complex project budgets, schedules, resources, consultant and agreement administration, risk, and workforce planning while providing strategic direction, technical guidance, and mentorship to project teams. Through strong leadership and collaboration with internal and external partners, this position helps ensure successful delivery of one of WSDOT's significant and complex capital improvement projects.

What to Expect

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

• Provide management and leadership oversight, technical guidance, and support and direction to ensure the Project Office Teams meet project goals, objectives, and deliverables.
• Mentor and support the Project Office Team Managers.
• Ensure that Project Office Teams provide timely and accurate reporting of project status, progress, and project finance to Management and Executives.
• Provide leadership and direction to Project Office Teams, including both State (Project Engineers and Assistant Project Engineers) and Consultant staff to execute work plan.
• Assist the Project Office Teams to ensure that the assigned projects are monitoring the scope, schedule, and budget.
• Ensure that Project Office Teams are identifying and managing Project risks.
• Provide any necessary assistance or guidance in working with local agencies and stakeholders to resolve any issues, negotiate permits, negotiate agreements, and changes.
• Engage in meeting with counterparts at the City of Seattle, working on project issues and helping resolve any issues or disputes which may arise on the project, whether between the contractors and the City of Seattle or between WSDOT and the City of Seattle.
• Provide approval of change order requests at the Program/Region level.
• Provide support to the Project Office Teams in developing, planning, and implementing delivery strategies for various project components.

Qualifications

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

• Project and Program Management: Proven ability to manage the delivery of complex design and construction projects. Skilled in project planning, scope and schedule management, budgeting, and application of quality management principles and tools to improve project outcomes. Strong skills to make responsible, timely, and effective decisions in the best interest of the department, based on an array of complex and competing issues.
• Accountability: Expertise including budgeting, scheduling, environmental considerations, and quality assurance.
• Civil Engineering Expertise: Experience applying civil engineering principles in the design, analysis, and construction of transportation infrastructure. Knowledge of highway project development, NEPA, SEPA, and permitting requirements, right-of-way acquisition processes, and access management laws and guidelines. Understanding of contracting methods and procedures.
• Leadership and Supervision: Ability to lead, mentor, and develop engineering and technical staff. Experience managing multi-discipline staff of both internal and consultants to meet performance goals, planning workforce needs, allocating resources effectively, and resolving personnel or performance issues.
• Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication and negotiation skills, including the ability to prepare technical reports, present complex information to diverse audiences, and represent the agency in public meetings and interagency settings.
• Collaboration and Problem Solving: Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines to resolve major design and construction challenges, disputes, and claims. Skilled in applying analytical thinking and negotiation techniques to achieve mutually beneficial solutions.
• Stakeholder and Agency Coordination: Demonstrated success in coordinating and negotiating with local jurisdictions, tribal governments, the public, and regulatory agencies to meet project objectives and resolve issues.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• Licensed as a Professional Engineer in the state of Washington OR licensed as a professional engineer in another state with the ability to obtain licensure in Washington state within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to conduct weekly field reviews and visits to active construction sites, possibly during inclement weather, near traffic, or working on uneven or steep terrain.
• Ability to travel to and from project sites, during emergencies, and occasionally to off-site conferences or statewide meetings.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Complex Project Administration: Experience in administration or execution of large, complicated highway and bridge projects (both Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build delivery approaches) with multiple stakeholders.

To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.

Important Notes

This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
• 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 their 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 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 olivia.dietrich@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-8W163 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)?

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

02

If you indicated you currently have a PE license, please list your license number. Otherwise, enter N/A.

03

Please select the response that best describes your experience managing complex design and construction projects, including scope, schedule, budget, quality, risk, and project delivery.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience leading complex, high-value design and construction projects or programs from planning through delivery. I independently manage scope, schedule, budget, quality, risk, and competing priorities and make timely, high-impact decisions to achieve project objectives.
• Intermediate: I have substantial experience managing complex projects or significant project components, including scope, schedule, budget, quality, and risk, and independently make decisions to address project challenges.
• Basic: I have experience supporting project management activities such as developing schedules, tracking budgets, coordinating scope, monitoring quality, or addressing project issues, with established procedures or guidance.
• Limited: I have limited exposure to project management activities and have primarily assisted others with project planning, scheduling, budgeting, or coordination.
• No Experience: I have no experience managing or supporting design or construction projects.

04

Please briefly describe your experience managing complex design and construction projects. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

05

Please select the response that best describes your experience applying civil engineering principles to the design, analysis, construction, or delivery of transportation infrastructure.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience applying civil engineering principles to complex transportation infrastructure projects and have broad knowledge of highway project development, environmental requirements, permitting, right-of-way, access management, and contracting methods.
• Intermediate: I have substantial experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation design or construction projects and working with several aspects of project development, permitting, right-of-way, access management, or contracting.
• Basic: I have foundational civil engineering experience related to transportation projects and have applied engineering principles to routine design, analysis, or construction assignments with guidance.
• Limited: I have limited exposure to civil engineering or transportation infrastructure through coursework, training, or work experience.
• No Experience: I have no experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation infrastructure.

06

Please select the response that best describes your experience leading and developing engineering or technical staff, including internal employees, consultants, or multidisciplinary teams.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing workforce needs, resource allocation, performance expectations, mentoring, coaching, and complex personnel or performance issues involving both employees and consultants.
• Intermediate: I have substantial experience supervising or leading engineering and technical staff, allocating resources, addressing performance issues, mentoring employees, and coordinating consultant personnel to meet project goals.
• Basic: I have experience leading teams or providing technical guidance, mentoring, assigning work, or coordinating staff activities with established direction.
• Limited: I have limited experience leading or mentoring others and have primarily provided informal assistance or technical support.
• No Experience: I have no experience leading, supervising, or mentoring engineering or technical staff.

07

Please briefly describe your experience in administration or execution of large, complicated highway and bridge projects with multiple stakeholders. Be sure to include both Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build delivery approaches. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

08

Are you able and willing to conduct weekly field reviews and visits to active construction sites, possibly during inclement weather, near traffic, or working on uneven or steep terrain?

• Yes
• No

09

Are you able and willing to travel to and from project sites, during emergencies, and occasionally to off-site conferences or statewide meetings?

• Yes
• No

10

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)

11

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