Inspector Specialist Marine - Washington State Ferries

Inspector Specialist Marine - Washington State Ferries

Salary

$84,529.00 - $113,734.00 Annually

Location

Out of State, WA

Job Type

Project (limited duration)

Job Number

26DOT-WSF-9P020m

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Washington State Ferries

Opening Date

06/30/2026

Closing Date

7/21/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Location Alert: This opportunity is based in Panama City, FL!

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!

Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washingtons transportation network. Every year, we carry nearly 20 million passengers across Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on more than 400 sailings a day. Our dedicated teams with over 2,100 people work together to serve our communities and shape the future of ferry travel.

The Opportunity

WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking three Inspector Specialist, Marine positions to serve as senior marine inspectors supporting new vessel construction and modification activities in Panama City, Florida. These roles provide critical oversight of shipyard work to help ensure vessels are built and modified in alignment with contract expectations, approved plans, and applicable standards. Serving as owner representatives, these positions help identify and resolve issues early, supporting quality, safety, and accountability throughout the construction process. Through this work, the Inspector Specialists contribute directly to WSF's mission of providing safe, reliable ferry service for the communities and travelers who depend on Washington's marine highway system.

As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system - guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow Navigate, and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People - there's never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.

What to Expect

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

• Inspect surface preparation, coatings, structural fabrication, and piping installation to ensure compliance with WSF specifications, contract requirements, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Witness testing, coating evolutions, factory acceptance trials, commissioning, and startup activities to support vessel acceptance and operational readiness.
• Identify deficiencies and nonconformances, reject unacceptable work, and verify corrective actions to ensure quality and contract compliance.
• Coordinate with contractors, regulatory agencies, manufacturers, Project Engineers, and WSF engineering staff to interpret specifications, drawings, and technical requirements.
• Provide technical oversight to ensure proper installation of coatings, mechanical equipment, and approved materials.
• Prepare inspection reports, daily reports, deficiency reports, correspondence, and other project documentation; communicate project status, delays, and compliance issues.
• Review contractor documentation, including as-built drawings, specifications, submittals, and time-and-material reports for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Assist with testing procedures, progress validation, technical recommendations, and lessons learned to support successful project delivery and continuous improvement.
• Uphold WSF's strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF's culture through leadership actions

Qualifications

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

• Valid Driver's License - Possession of a valid state-issued driver's license, as demonstrated through application materials and eligibility to operate a motor vehicle for business purposes.
• On-Site Availability - Ability to work on-site in Panama City, Florida, up to 100% of the time, as demonstrated through work history, availability, or applicant responses.
• Marine Construction Inspection - Experience conducting inspections, surveillance, testing observations, acceptance reviews, or quality assurance activities related to vessel construction, fabrication, repair, or marine industrial projects.
• Contract and Regulatory Compliance - Experience evaluating work for compliance with contract requirements, specifications, industry standards, regulatory requirements, or quality control criteria.
• Engineering Drawing and Technical Document Interpretation - Ability to read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings, plans, specifications, construction documents, and technical requirements to verify installation, material usage, and workmanship.
• Marine Systems and Vessel Construction Knowledge - Demonstrated knowledge of vessel layout, ship construction processes, fabrication methods, welding, piping systems, electrical systems, marine equipment, materials, and safety practices.
• Technical Problem Solving and Issue Resolution - Experience identifying technical, production, design, quality, or compliance issues; analyzing impacts; communicating findings; and supporting resolution efforts.
• Stakeholder Communication and Coordination - Experience communicating technical information and coordinating with contractors, engineers, project teams, regulatory agencies, or other stakeholders to support project objectives and compliance.
• Technical Documentation and Reporting - Experience preparing, reviewing, or maintaining inspection reports, daily activity reports, deficiency reports, project correspondence, technical documentation, or contract records.
• Regulatory and Standards Knowledge - Experience applying or interpreting contract documents, industry standards, codes, regulations, or U.S. Coast Guard requirements in a marine, construction, engineering, or industrial environment.
• Project Organization and Accountability - Demonstrated ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines, maintain accurate records, provide timely information, and produce quality work with attention to detail.
• Independent Judgment and Initiative - Experience working independently, exercising professional judgment, prioritizing competing demands, and implementing solutions within established policies, procedures, and project requirements.
• Continuous Learning and Adaptability - Demonstrated commitment to learning, adapting to changing priorities, acquiring new technical knowledge, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
• Customer and Service Orientation - Experience supporting internal or external customers through responsive communication, collaboration, and a commitment to meeting stakeholder needs.
• Marine Construction and Industry Practices Knowledge - Working knowledge of marine construction methods, equipment, materials, estimating practices, project costs, and vessel construction processes, as demonstrated through relevant experience, training, or education.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Eligibility - Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within six months of hire and maintain credential eligibility throughout employment, as demonstrated through applicant attestation and compliance with federal credentialing requirements.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Shipyard Construction or Owner's Representative Experience - Experience serving as a shipyard employee, owner's representative, military equivalent, or project-level lead responsible for vessel construction, overhaul, renovation, repair, or modernization projects.
• Marine Inspection or Survey Experience - Experience performing vessel inspections, surveys, audits, certifications, or compliance reviews for a regulatory agency, classification society, shipyard, vessel owner, or similar organization.
• Professional Engineering Application - Experience applying engineering principles in ship design, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or related technical disciplines.
• Regulatory Agency or Classification Society Interface - Experience coordinating with organizations such as the U.S. Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), or similar regulatory or classification authorities.
• Complex Marine Project Experience - Experience supporting large-scale marine construction, vessel modernization, shipyard production, or capital improvement projects involving multiple stakeholders and technical disciplines.

Important Notes

• This position is based in Panama City, Florida
• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
• 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 357-28of 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
• Relocation allowance available for out-of-state hires
• Supplemental training for position in inspection roles is available

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

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 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 renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-9P020m 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 currently possess a valid state-issued drivers license that allows you to operate a motor vehicle for business purposes?

• Yes
• No

02

This position is based in Panama City, Florida and requires on-site work up to 100% of the time. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No

03

Do you currently possess a valid TWIC card, or are you able to obtain and maintain a TWIC within six months of hire?

• I currently possess a valid TWIC card.
• I do not currently possess a TWIC card but am eligible and willing to obtain one within six months of hire.
• I am unsure whether I am eligible to obtain a TWIC card.
• I am not currently eligible to obtain a TWIC card.
• I am unwilling to obtain a TWIC card.

04

Which best describes your experience conducting inspections, surveillance, testing observations, acceptance reviews, or quality assurance activities related to vessel construction, ship repair, fabrication, or marine industrial projects?

• Independently lead inspection activities, make acceptance determinations, identify deficiencies, and recommend corrective actions on complex marine construction or vessel projects.
• Conduct inspections and quality assurance reviews, document findings, and verify compliance with specifications, standards, or contract requirements.
• Assist with inspections, testing observations, or quality control activities under established procedures.
• Have limited exposure to inspection or quality assurance activities in a marine, industrial, or construction environment.
• No relevant experience.

05

Which best describes your ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documents?

• Independently interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications to verify compliance, installation, material usage, and workmanship.
• Regularly use engineering drawings, plans, and specifications to perform technical, construction, inspection, or engineering work.
• Review engineering drawings and technical documents with occasional guidance from others.
• Have limited exposure to engineering drawings or specifications.
• No relevant experience.

06

Which best describes your knowledge of vessel construction, fabrication methods, welding, piping systems, electrical systems, marine equipment, and safety practices?

• Apply advanced knowledge of multiple vessel systems and construction disciplines to evaluate work, resolve issues, and support project decisions.
• Apply working knowledge of vessel systems, construction methods, and marine equipment in inspection, engineering, maintenance, or production activities.
• Possess general knowledge of vessel systems and marine construction principles through work, military service, training, or education.
• Have limited exposure to vessel systems or marine construction concepts.
• No relevant knowledge or experience.

07

Which best describes your experience applying contract requirements, standards, regulations, or compliance criteria?

• Independently evaluate work for compliance and make recommendations regarding acceptance, corrective actions, or regulatory requirements.
• Regularly apply contract requirements, codes, standards, or regulations to support project execution or quality assurance activities.
• Assist with compliance reviews or verification activities using established procedures.
• Have limited exposure to compliance-related work.
• No relevant experience.

08

Which best describes your experience preparing technical reports and project documentation?

• Independently prepare detailed technical reports, inspection documentation, deficiency reports, and correspondence used to support project decisions and compliance activities.
• Regularly prepare inspection reports, daily reports, project documentation, or technical correspondence.
• Assist with preparing or maintaining technical records and documentation.
• Have limited experience preparing technical documentation.
• No relevant experience.

09

Which best describes your experience communicating technical information and coordinating with project stakeholders?

• Serve as a primary liaison between contractors, engineers, project teams, regulatory agencies, or other stakeholders to resolve technical or compliance issues.
• Regularly coordinate technical activities and communicate project information among multiple stakeholders.
• Communicate technical information as part of assigned project or operational responsibilities.
• Have limited experience communicating technical information to stakeholders.
• No relevant experience.

10

Which best describes your experience supporting vessel construction, shipyard operations, marine inspections, or complex marine projects?

• Serve or have served as an owners representative, marine inspector/surveyor, project lead, engineer, or equivalent responsible for project oversight, compliance, or acceptance decisions.
• Perform or have performed inspection, engineering, quality assurance, production oversight, or project coordination duties on marine construction, repair, or modernization projects.
• Contribute to vessel construction, shipyard, military maritime, fabrication, or marine industrial operations as part of a project team.
• Have limited exposure to marine projects through related technical, engineering, or construction activities.
• No relevant marine project experience.

11

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)

12

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