Quality Assurance Lead - Washington State Ferries

Quality Assurance Lead - Washington State Ferries

Salary

$84,520.00 - $113,639.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-WSF-90037

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Washington State Ferries

Opening Date

08/20/2026

Closing Date

9/4/2026 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 Quality Assurance Lead to strengthen safety, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement across terminal operations, Eagle Harbor, and the ferry fleet. This position plays a key role in evaluating operational practices, identifying opportunities for improvement, and supporting compliance with regulatory standards and WSF's Safety Management System. Through quality assurance, internal audits, training, and process improvement, this role helps foster a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence. The Quality Assurance Lead directly contributes to safe, reliable ferry service and WSF's commitment to providing exceptional service to the communities and customers we serve.

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 Quality Assurance Lead will:

• Lead vessel and terminal audits for regulatory and Safety Management System compliance.
• Serve as a technical expert on applicable laws, regulations, standards, and policies.
• Analyze audit findings and monitor corrective and preventative actions.
• Provide quality assurance training and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead environmental compliance activities, including VGP reporting and spill response readiness.
• Develop and maintain regulatory plans, technical documentation, and compliance records.
• Develop and update policies, procedures, guidance, and interagency agreements.
• Review regulatory changes, prepare reports, and represent WSF at external meetings.
• 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:

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

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

• Education/Experience:

• Demonstrated ability to analyze and apply quality assurance, engineering, or compliance principles to solve maritime or complex operational challenges. (This competency may be developed through formal education, technical training, military service, community leadership, or equivalent professional experience.)

• Demonstrated success in leading and managing quality assurance, auditing, or continuous process-improvement initiatives, ideally within a maritime or similarly regulated operational environment.

• Proven capability to plan, conduct, and document internal audits, identify system non-conformities, and coordinate corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) within an established safety management system.

• Ability to interpret, apply, and integrate maritime compliance frameworks (such as ISM Code, SOLAS, or relevant environmental standards) into daily operations and procedural updates.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Behaviors:

• Knowledge

• Demonstrated understanding of maritime regulations and safety management systems, with the ability to apply this knowledge to ensure operational compliance and safety.

• Knowledge of maritime operations and vessel functions, with the ability to apply this understanding to daily operational decisions.

• Ability to utilize quality assurance methodologies and tools (such as Lean, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement frameworks) to analyze processes and drive operational efficiency.

• Understanding of audit processes and compliance standards, with the ability to execute, evaluate, or support internal and external audits.

• Skills

• Ability to analyze complex operational data, identify root causes of issues, and develop effective, practical solutions.

• Ability to communicate technical and regulatory information clearly, concisely, and effectively to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing.

• Ability to use data analysis and reporting tools to track performance, identify trends, and inform operational decision-making.

• Abilities

• Ability to manage individual tasks independently while actively collaborating within cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals.

• Ability to prioritize, organize, and manage multiple projects simultaneously to deliver high-quality results within established timelines.

• Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy, thoroughness, and quality in compliance monitoring, reporting, and operational tasks.

• Ability to draft, edit, and publish clear, professional reports, official correspondence, and technical documentation.

• Ability to self-manage workloads and maintain accountability to consistently deliver assignments on schedule.

• Ability to maintain composure, prioritize tasks effectively, and make sound, safe decisions in fast-paced, high-stress, or demanding operational environments.

• Behaviors

• Demonstrated initiative in anticipating operational needs, addressing potential compliance or safety issues before they escalate, and focusing on measurable outcomes.

• Ability to build positive working relationships, lead project teams, and influence others to adopt safety and quality-focused practices.

• Commitment to ongoing professional development, actively seeking feedback, and staying updated on evolving industry standards and best practices.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Demonstrated knowledge of maritime operations, environmental compliance, quality management principles, and applicable regulatory requirements, with the ability to apply this knowledge to assigned compliance activities.
• Completion of coursework or professional training in safety management, regulatory compliance, or related operational safety disciplines.
• Extensive experience directing quality assurance, auditing, or continuous process improvement initiatives, particularly within the maritime industry.
• Proven track record of successfully planning, leading, and executing quality improvement projects and strategic initiatives from inception to completion.
• Direct operational experience in vessel engine rooms, including a strong technical understanding of vessels, onboard machinery, and vessel systems.

Important Notes

• 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 357-28of 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-90037 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

Describe your experience leading quality assurance, auditing, or continuous process-improvement initiatives. Include the type of environment, your level of responsibility, and an example of an initiative you led or supported from planning through implementation.

02

Describe your experience planning, conducting, and documenting internal audits. Include your experience identifying non-conformities, documenting findings, determining or supporting root-cause analysis, and coordinating corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).

03

Describe your experience interpreting and applying regulatory requirements, safety management systems, or compliance standards within maritime or another regulated operational environment. Identify the regulations or standards you have worked with and how you applied them.

04

Which option best describes your proficiency interpreting and applying maritime regulations and safety management requirements?

• I independently interpret and integrate complex maritime regulatory requirements, such as ISM Code, SOLAS, environmental standards, or similar requirements into operational practices, policies, and procedures.
• I independently interpret and apply maritime regulatory and safety management requirements to operational activities and recommend compliance improvements.
• I apply established maritime regulatory or safety management requirements to routine operational activities with periodic guidance.
• I have foundational education, training, or exposure to maritime regulations or safety management systems but limited practical application.
• I have little or no education, training, or experience applying maritime regulations or safety management systems.

05

Which option best describes your proficiency applying quality assurance or continuous improvement methodologies?

• I independently lead complex quality improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, root-cause analysis, or similar methodologies and evaluate measurable results.
• I independently apply quality assurance and continuous improvement methodologies to analyze processes, identify root causes, and implement improvements.
• I use established quality assurance tools to analyze processes and support improvement activities with periodic guidance.
• I have foundational education or training in quality assurance or continuous improvement methodologies but limited practical application.
• I have little or no education, training, or experience using quality assurance or continuous improvement methodologies.

06

Which option best describes your proficiency conducting internal or external compliance audits?

• I independently plan and lead complex audits, evaluate compliance, document non-conformities, communicate findings, and oversee corrective and preventive actions through closure.
• I independently conduct audits, document findings, identify non-conformities, and coordinate corrective and preventive actions with minimal guidance.
• I conduct or support audits, document findings, and track corrective actions with periodic guidance.
• I have participated in audits or received audit-related training but require regular guidance to perform audit activities.
• I have little or no education, training, or experience conducting or supporting compliance audits.

07

Which option best describes your proficiency communicating technical or regulatory information and preparing formal documentation?

• I independently develop complex audit reports, regulatory documentation, procedures, and executive-level communications and effectively present technical information to diverse audiences.
• I independently prepare professional technical reports, procedures, and correspondence and explain regulatory information to technical and non-technical audiences.
• I prepare routine technical documentation and communicate compliance information with periodic guidance or review.
• I prepare basic documentation and communicate technical information with regular guidance.
• I have limited experience preparing technical documentation or communicating regulatory information.

08

Which option best describes your proficiency leading quality, safety, compliance, or operational improvement projects?

• I independently lead complex cross-functional projects from inception through completion, manage competing priorities, influence stakeholders, and ensure measurable outcomes.
• I independently lead projects, coordinate cross-functional stakeholders, manage timelines, and resolve issues with minimal guidance.
• I coordinate assigned project activities and collaborate with cross-functional teams with periodic guidance.
• I participate in project teams and complete assigned activities with regular guidance.
• I have limited experience participating in or leading cross-functional projects.

09

Which option best describes your knowledge and experience with maritime operations, vessel systems, and environmental compliance?

• I have direct operational experience in vessel engine rooms and independently apply advanced knowledge of vessel machinery, systems, maritime operations, and environmental compliance requirements.
• I have direct vessel operational experience and working knowledge of vessel machinery, systems, and applicable maritime or environmental compliance requirements.
• I have professional experience supporting maritime operations, vessel compliance, maintenance, safety, or related activities and understand basic vessel systems.
• I have coursework, professional training, or limited practical exposure to maritime operations, vessel systems, safety, or environmental compliance.
• I have little or no education, training, or experience with maritime operations, vessel systems, or environmental compliance.

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