Project Engineer

Project Engineer

Salary

$9,700.00 - $11,874.00 Monthly

Location

King County - Shoreline, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-1W276

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

09/02/2026

Closing Date

9/16/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a professional engineer to deliver highway construction projects across the Northwest Region, ensuring they meet local, state, and federal standards while staying on scope, schedule, and budget. This position plays a key role in creating transportation infrastructure that is safe, reliable, sustainable, and accessible for all modes of travel, while minimizing impacts to the traveling public. The position also helps build a strong, inclusive workforce and promotes resiliency across WSDOT's people, projects, and assets. Through thoughtful project delivery and a commitment to safety, this role directly supports WSDOT's mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options that strengthen communities and economic vitality.

What to Expect

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

• Strategically plan the budget, schedule, and workforce necessary to deliver the Capital Improvement and Preservation Program (CIPP).
• Lead an office of professional and technical engineers and/or technicians, including interns, temporary employees, and engineering consultants, in the design and contract development of transportation improvement, preservation, safety, and fish passage projects.
• Ensure projects are developed and managed in accordance with WSDOT policies, procedures, current standards, effective engineering techniques, and sound engineering judgment to meet scope, schedule, budget, and documentation requirements.
• Ensure projects are delivered in an environmentally responsible manner consistent with applicable laws.
• Build effective partnerships with citizens, media, elected officials, contractors, consultants, and outside agencies to plan, build, maintain, and operate an efficient transportation system.
• Coordinate input and resolve conflicts among internal organizations, personnel, outside agencies, consultants, contractors, and the public.
• Report the status of assigned projects to WSDOT regional and statewide executive management to support accountability and improve project delivery.
• Certify, by use of Professional Engineer's stamp, that WSDOT standards and policies are followed in the development of design documents, contract plans, and specifications, including changes executed during construction administration.

Qualifications

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

• Professional Engineering Certification: Licensed as a Professional Engineer in the state of Washington or ability to obtain licensure within six (6) months of hire.
• Civil Engineering Expertise: Extensive experience applying transportation engineering principles including highway design, construction practices, and surveying. Proficient in preparing and reviewing plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E) for complex highway and transportation infrastructure projects.
• Transportation Design & Delivery: Experience leading transportation projects through planning, environmental review, design, and construction. Familiar with transportation system design, environmental compliance, and state and federal project delivery processes.
• Project Management & Scheduling: Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and deliver multiple projects on time and within budget. Skilled in developing work plans, coordinating team efforts, and managing schedules.
• Budgeting & Programming: Experience managing budgets across multiple phases of project development, with a working knowledge of programming and funding processes.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to supervise, mentor, and coach engineering staff. Skilled in setting clear expectations, providing feedback, and fostering a culture of accountability and performance.
• Problem Solving & Decision-Making: Proven ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and implement practical solutions. Skilled in conflict resolution and facilitating constructive dialogue.
• Effective Communication & Collaboration: Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills to engage internal teams, contractors, stakeholders, and the public. Capable of representing the agency in meetings and on project sites.
• Respect & Inclusivity: Ability to contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment.
• Demonstrated experience working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, identities, and perspectives.
• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Professional Engineering Certification: Possession of a Professional Engineer's License in the state of Washington.
• Engineering Education or Equivalent Experience: Bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification, vocational training, coursework, or equivalent demonstrated experience in surveying, engineering, or inspection.
• WSDOT Project Delivery Methods: Experience designing and procuring transportation projects through design-build and design-bid-build methodologies, in accordance with WSDOT standards and procedures.
• FHWA Process Knowledge: Familiarity with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) processes, procedures, and requirements for delivering federally funded transportation projects. Ability to ensure compliance with federal stewardship obligations, documentation, and reporting standards.
• Change Management: Demonstrated knowledge and experience managing organizational or project level change. Ability to lead teams through transitions in scope, structure, policy, or project delivery approach using effective change management strategies.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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.
• 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.

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 Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-1W276 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) in Washington State, or are you able to obtain Washington State PE licensure within six (6) months of hire?

• Currently hold an active Washington State PE license.
• Hold an active PE license in another U.S. state and can obtain Washington State licensure within six (6) months of hire.
• Have met the examination and/or education requirements necessary to pursue Washington State PE licensure and can obtain it within six (6) months of hire.
• Am actively working toward meeting the requirements for Washington State PE licensure but cannot confirm that I can obtain it within six (6) months of hire.
• Do not currently hold a PE license and cannot obtain Washington State PE licensure within six (6) months of hire.

02

Which best describes your experience applying transportation engineering principles to highway design, construction practices, surveying, and the preparation or review of plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E)?

• Extensive experience independently leading the application of transportation engineering principles and preparing/reviewing PS&E for complex highway or transportation infrastructure projects.
• Substantial experience applying transportation engineering principles and preparing/reviewing PS&E for complex or moderately complex transportation projects, with significant responsibility for technical decisions.
• Experience applying transportation engineering principles and contributing to PS&E development or review for transportation projects under the direction of senior engineering staff.
• Limited experience applying transportation engineering principles or contributing to PS&E, primarily in supporting or technical roles.
• No experience applying transportation engineering principles or preparing/reviewing PS&E

03

Which best describes your experience leading or managing transportation projects through planning, environmental review and design?

• Independently led multiple complex transportation projects through planning, environmental review, design, ensuring compliance with applicable state and federal requirements.
• Led multiple transportation projects through several phases of project delivery, including design with responsibility for scope, compliance, schedule, or quality.
• Managed or supported transportation projects through multiple phases, including design, under the direction of senior project staff.
• Limited experience supporting individual phases of transportation project delivery.
• No experience with transportation project delivery.

04

Which best describes your experience planning, coordinating, and delivering multiple projects while managing scope, schedules, resources, and competing priorities?

• Independently managed multiple complex projects simultaneously, developing work plans, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, resolving schedule issues, and delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Managed multiple projects or major project components, coordinating staff and resources and monitoring schedules, budgets, and deliverables.
• Coordinated project activities and schedules for one more projects, with responsibility for specific work plans, deliverables, or team assignments.
• Supported project scheduling or coordination but had limited responsibility for overall project delivery.
• No experience managing or coordinating project schedules.

05

Which best describes your experience managing project budgets, programming, or funding across multiple phases of project development?

• Independently managed budgets and funding across multiple phases and projects, including forecasting, monitoring expenditures, adjusting resources, and addressing funding or programming issues.
• Managed project budgets or funding for multiple projects or phases, including monitoring expenditures and coordinating funding needs.
• Tracked and supported management of project budgets, funding, or programming under established processes.
• Limited experience tracking project costs or assisting with budget-related activities.
• No professional experience with project budgeting, programming, or funding.

06

Which best describes your experience supervising, mentoring, coaching, or developing engineering staff?

• Directly supervised and developed engineering staff, established expectations, provided performance feedback, coached employees, and held staff accountable for results.
• Supervised engineering or technical staff and regularly provided coaching, mentoring, feedback, and work direction.
• Served as a project or technical lead, providing work direction, mentoring, or coaching to engineering or technical staff without formal supervisory authority.
• Informally supported or mentored coworkers but have not served as a formal or technical lead.
• No experience supervising, leading, mentoring, or coaching staff.

07

Which best describes your experience identifying project or organizational issues, evaluating options, resolving conflicts, and implementing solutions?

• Regularly resolved complex, high-impact issues involving multiple stakeholders by evaluating alternatives, facilitating agreement, and implementing practical solutions.
• Independently resolved project or operational issues involving multiple parties and made recommendations or decisions that affected project outcomes.
• Identified and resolved routine technical or project issues and escalated complex matters when appropriate.
• Primarily identified issues and recommended potential solutions to more experienced staff for decision-making.
• Limited professional experience resolving project or operational issues.

08

Which best describes your experience communicating and collaborating with internal teams, contractors, consultants, stakeholders, elected officials, or members of the public to meet project or organizational needs?

• Regularly represented an organization or agency in complex meetings and public settings, facilitated agreement among diverse stakeholders, and took action to address stakeholder and project needs.
• Routinely led meetings, communicated technical information to varied audiences, coordinated with external partners, and resolved issues affecting project delivery.
• Regularly collaborated with internal and external partners and communicated project information, recommendations, or decisions to support successful outcomes.
• Communicated and collaborated with coworkers or project partners primarily in support of assigned tasks.
• Limited professional experience working with stakeholders or communicating project-related information.

09

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)

10

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