Preservation Production Control & Inspections Manager

Preservation Production Control & Inspections Manager

Salary

$122,200.00 - $149,612.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-WSF-9W158r

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Washington State Ferries

Opening Date

07/09/2026

Closing Date

8/6/2026 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!

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 a Preservation Production Control & Inspections Manager to provide strategic leadership over fleet-wide vessel preservation, production control, and inspection operations that support the long-term reliability, safety, and operational readiness of Washington State Ferries vessels. Collaborating with vessel engineering, maintenance, operations, and shipyard partners, this position ensures preservation and maintenance activities are executed in accordance with established engineering, quality, and regulatory standards. This unique leadership opportunity oversees fleet-wide preservation and inspection programs supporting 21 passenger and vehicle ferries, with a growing fleet expected to expand to 26 vessels by 2035, while leading a multidisciplinary team of inspection and quality professionals and serving as the technical authority for preservation inspection standards. The role plays a critical part in the successful execution of vessel preservation, maintenance, drydock, layup, retrofit, and recapitalization projects, directly influencing approximately $250 million in vessel preservation and maintenance contracts each biennium. Through inspection oversight and quality assurance activities, this position helps protect Washington State Ferries long-term capital investments while ensuring safe, reliable service for millions of passengers each year and advancing the agencys mission of fleet reliability, operational readiness, and continuous improvement.

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 Preservation Production Control & Inspections Manager will:

• Track preservation project progress, milestones, testing, trials, acceptance criteria, and compliance with safety, environmental, material, and procedural standards across the WSF fleet.
• Assign and coordinate inspectors for preservation, retrofit, and recapitalization projects based on technical expertise while balancing workloads across facilities and project types.
• Supervise Construction Project Coordinators, Inspector Specialists, and Eagle Harbor quality and scheduling staff supporting fleet maintenance and preservation production activities.
• Manage investigations, root cause analyses, quality assurance, corrective actions, and resolution of contract nonconformance and systemic production deficiencies.
• Recruit, train, mentor, evaluate, and develop inspection staff, including succession planning and advancement of Inspector Specialists into leadership and engineering support roles.
• Establish and maintain fleet-wide preservation inspection standards and ensure consistent inspection quality, documentation, and technical compliance across shipyards and facilities.
• Monitor workforce capacity, resource sufficiency, and fleet material condition trends, and provide technical reporting and staffing recommendations to leadership as fleet demands expand.
• Serve as the subject matter authority on preservation inspection practices, lifecycle cost impacts, and emerging maritime maintenance and preservation trends.

Qualifications

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

• Core Leadership & Behavioral Competence

• Service-Oriented - Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

• Growth Mindset -Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

• Technical & Maritime Engineering Competence

• Demonstrated expertise in vessel systems including structural, coatings/preservation, electrical, propulsion, and mechanical disciplines. Ability to evaluate material compliance, corrosion control systems, coatings, and preservation methodologies.

• In-depth knowledge of maritime maintenance standards, inspection protocols, and lifecycle asset management practices.

• Experience interpreting and validating contract specifications, test procedures, trial standards, and acceptance criteria.

• In-depth knowledge of regulatory frameworks (e.g., USCG, ABS, OSHA, environmental compliance standards) related to vessel operations and preservation.

• Project & Portfolio Management

• Experience managing multiple concurrent projects across geographically distributed facilities.

• Proficiency in tracking project milestones, budgets, schedules, and contractor performance.

• Ability to balance short-term operational demands with long-term fleet recapitalization efforts.

• Leadership, Workforce Planning, & Resource Management

• Substantial experience supervising technical staff and/or subordinate supervisors in a complex operational environment.

• Experience recruiting, training, and developing technical staff. Skill in performance management, including coaching, mentoring, and progressive discipline.

• Ability to forecast workforce needs in a growing operational environment.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical and executive audiences. Ability to translate complex technical issues into clear business impacts.

• Quality Assurance & Continuous Improvement, Safety & Regulatory Compliance

• In-depth knowledge of inspection systems, nonconformance tracking, and corrective action processes.

• Experience standardizing procedures across multiple sites or projects.

• Strong understanding of workplace safety standards and risk mitigation in industrial/maritime environments.

• In-depth experience ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

• Substantial experience conducting root cause analyses for equipment, system, or operational failures.

• Ability to synthesize technical data into actionable insights and recommendations.

• Understanding of fleet lifecycle cost modeling and long-term asset strategy. Strong analytical skills related to asset condition, reliability, and lifecycle cost modeling.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Experience with maritime preservation programs, shipyard operations, or vessel maintenance oversight.
• Experience working within a public sector or highly regulated environment.
• Experience with ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems or similar quality frameworks.
• Experience supporting large-scale capital programs or fleet lifecycle planning initiatives.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible hybrid/remote work options and is eligible for telework up to 1-2 days per week. In-person work is required at local commercial shipyards, Eagle Harbor, Building 2901, and occasionally aboard vessels, based on operational needs.
• 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 357-28of 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

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-9W158 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 option best describes your professional experience overseeing vessel preservation, inspection, maintenance, or engineering activities in a marine or industrial environment?

• Extensive experience leading fleet-wide vessel preservation, inspection, maintenance, or engineering programs across multiple vessels or facilities, including oversight of structural, coatings, electrical, propulsion, and mechanical systems.
• Significant experience managing preservation, maintenance, or inspection activities for multiple vessel or industrial projects involving several technical disciplines.
• Moderate experience supporting vessel or industrial preservation, maintenance, or inspection activities within one technical discipline or facility.
• Limited experience assisting with vessel or industrial maintenance, preservation, or inspection activities under close supervision.
• No related experience.

02

Describe your experience applying maritime or industrial regulatory standards, inspection protocols, or contract acceptance criteria. Include any experience with USCG, ABS, OSHA, environmental compliance, quality assurance, or corrective action processes.

03

Which option best describes your experience managing multiple concurrent projects across geographically distributed facilities or operational environments?

• Independently manage a large portfolio of concurrent projects across multiple facilities with responsibility for schedules, contractor performance, budgets, risk mitigation, and operational impacts.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects with responsibility for schedules, resource coordination, and contractor or staff oversight.
• Coordinate project tasks, schedules, or resources for several projects with guidance from leadership.
• Assist with project tracking or scheduling activities for a limited number of projects.
• No related experience.

04

Which option best describes your experience supervising technical staff in a complex operational or industrial environment?

• Supervise subordinate supervisors and/or multiple technical teams, including workforce planning, performance management, coaching, mentoring, discipline, and succession planning responsibilities.
• Directly supervise technical staff with responsibility for hiring, training, scheduling, evaluations, and performance management.
• Lead technical staff or project teams without formal supervisory authority.
• Occasionally provide guidance or training to coworkers or junior staff.
• No related experience

05

Which option best describes your experience with quality assurance systems, nonconformance tracking, corrective actions, or inspection documentation?

• Lead organization-wide or multi-site quality assurance and corrective action programs, including systemic deficiency resolution and process standardization.
• Independently manage inspection documentation, nonconformance tracking, and corrective actions for multiple projects or operational areas.
• Regularly participate in inspections, quality reviews, or corrective action activities.
• Limited exposure to inspection documentation or quality assurance processes.
• No related experience.

06

Which option best describes your experience conducting root cause analyses related to equipment, system, operational, or production failures?

• Independently lead complex root cause investigations and implement corrective actions impacting multiple systems, projects, or operational areas.
• Conduct root cause analyses and recommend corrective actions for equipment or operational failures within assigned programs or facilities.
• Participate in troubleshooting and corrective action activities under guidance from senior staff.
• Limited exposure to troubleshooting or investigative processes.
• No related experience.

07

Which option best describes your experience communicating technical information to leadership, stakeholders, contractors, or operational staff?

• Routinely present complex technical findings, operational risks, and business impacts to executive leadership, external stakeholders, or regulatory agencies.
• Regularly prepare technical reports, recommendations, or project updates for management and operational teams.
• Communicate technical information to project teams or supervisors regarding assigned work activities.
• Limited experience documenting or communicating technical information.
• No related experience.

08

Which option best describes your experience ensuring compliance with workplace safety, environmental, or industrial regulatory requirements?

• Lead safety and compliance efforts across multiple facilities or projects, including risk mitigation, regulatory coordination, and corrective action oversight.
• Independently ensure compliance with applicable safety and environmental regulations for assigned projects or operational areas.
• Regularly follow established safety and environmental procedures as part of assigned duties.
• Limited exposure to industrial or maritime safety compliance requirements.
• No related experience.

09

Which option best describes your experience supporting fleet lifecycle planning, capital programs, asset condition analysis, or long-term maintenance strategies?

• Lead lifecycle planning, asset strategy development, or capital program initiatives impacting fleet-wide or organization-wide operations.
• Regularly analyze asset condition, maintenance trends, or lifecycle costs to support operational and capital planning decisions.
• Support maintenance planning or capital project activities using asset or operational data
• Limited exposure to lifecycle planning or asset management concepts.
• No related experience.

10

Which option best describes your experience supporting vessel maintenance, preservation, inspection, engineering, quality assurance, or shipyard operations in a maritime environment?

• Extensive experience leading fleet-wide vessel maintenance, preservation, inspection, engineering, or shipyard operations programs across multiple vessels or facilities.
• Significant experience managing vessel maintenance, preservation, inspection, engineering, or shipyard projects in a maritime environment.
• Moderate experience supporting maritime vessel maintenance, preservation, inspection, engineering, or shipyard operations.
• Limited maritime experience.
• No maritime-related experience.

11

Describe any experience you have with maritime preservation programs, shipyard operations, vessel maintenance oversight, ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems, or public sector/highly regulated operational environments. Include the organization, your role, and the scope of your responsibilities.

12

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)

13

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