Shipwright Health & Safety - Washington State Ferries

Shipwright Health & Safety - Washington State Ferries

Salary

$95,943.60 Annually

Location

Kitsap County - Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-WSF-G0090

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Washington State Ferries

Opening Date

08/11/2026

Closing Date

8/25/2026 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 Health and Safety Specialist to help foster a safe, healthy, and compliant work environment at the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility. This position serves as a trusted safety partner by promoting proactive risk prevention, strengthening regulatory compliance, and supporting continuous improvement of health and safety programs that keep our workforce and facilities operating safely. Through collaboration with employees and leadership, this role advances a strong culture of safety while helping ensure the reliable maintenance of Washington State Ferries vessels and terminals. By protecting the well-being of employees and supporting safe, dependable ferry operations, this position plays a vital role in delivering reliable transportation and exceptional public service to the people of Washington.

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 Health and Safety Specialist will:

• Conduct safety and health inspections, evaluations, and hazard assessments at the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility (EHMF) and aboard vessels to identify risks, recommend corrective actions, and ensure compliance with applicable safety regulations, policies, and standards.
• Serve as a trusted health and safety advisor by providing guidance to employees and management, promoting safe work practices, supporting occupational safety programs, and fostering a proactive safety culture.
• Administer and support assigned safety programs, including respiratory protection, hearing conservation, Shipyard Competent Person (SCP), and fall protection programs, ensuring regulatory compliance and program effectiveness.
• Monitor, evaluate, and improve EHMF safety policies, procedures, and processes through audits, risk assessments, trend analysis, and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
• Facilitate the EHMF Health and Safety Committee, coordinate with regulatory agencies and leadership, develop safety reports and recommendations, and support agency-wide safety initiatives.
• Respond to safety incidents, emergencies, and Incident Command System (ICS) activations by providing technical safety expertise, conducting incident evaluations, and supporting emergency response operations.
• 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:

• Safety Awareness - Demonstrates the ability to observe, recognize, and respond to safety hazards and unsafe work practices while promoting a safe and healthy work environment.
• Safety Compliance - Demonstrates the ability to effectively learn, apply, and properly use assigned safety equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and fall protection equipment in accordance with established safety requirements.
• Mobility and Physical Capability - Demonstrates the ability to safely navigate a variety of work environments, including uneven steel surfaces, confined spaces aboard vessels, shoreside terminals, and elevated work areas using ladders and fall protection equipment, and to move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds on a seldom basis.
• Initiative and Teamwork - Demonstrates initiative, works independently, and collaborates effectively as a member of an inclusive, diverse, and cohesive team.
• Growth Mindset - Actively demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and adapting to changing safety regulations, policies, and operational needs.
• Service-Oriented - Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of employees, customers, and stakeholders while supporting Washington State Ferries commitment to safe and reliable operations.
• Licenses, Certifications, and Eligibility - Possess a valid Washington State drivers license and the ability to operate a state vehicle (gas and electric/hybrid models). Must successfully pass a background check (including fingerprints) and obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within six months of employment.
• Required Training and Certifications - Ability to obtain and maintain the following certifications within six months of employment:
• Fall Protection Competent Person & Inspection
• Shipyard Competent Person (SCP)
• First Aid, CPR, and AED
• OSHA 30-Hour Maritime, Construction, or General Industry
• Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER)
• Hazardous Waste RCRA/Washington Dangerous Waste Management
• Incident Command System (ICS) 100, 200, 700, and 800

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Occupational Safety and Health Expertise - Experience designing, leading, or supporting occupational safety and health programs at a professional or lead level within a marine, shipyard, or general industry environment.
• Safety Leadership - Experience serving as a safety committee representative in a maritime, construction, or general industry setting.
• Respiratory Protection - Experience performing qualitative and quantitative respirator fit testing.
• Project Leadership - Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and lead cross-functional projects through successful completion.

Important Notes

• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• 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-G0090 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

Please describe your professional experience supporting occupational safety and health programs. Include your employer(s), job title(s), years of experience, and whether your experience was in a marine, shipyard, construction, manufacturing, transportation, or general industry environment.

02

Do you currently possess a valid drivers license and are you able to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within six (6) months of employment?

• I possess a valid drivers license and currently hold a valid TWIC card.
• I possess a valid drivers license and can obtain a TWIC within six months of employment.
• I possess a valid drivers license but am unsure whether I can obtain a TWIC within six months.
• I do not currently possess a valid drivers license but could obtain one before employment.
• None of the above.

03

Please identify which of the following certifications you currently possess and which you are willing to obtain within six (6) months of employment. Include any of the following that apply

• Fall Protection Competent Person & Inspection
• Shipyard Competent Person (SCP)
• First Aid/CPR/AED
• OSHA 30-Hour Maritime, Construction, or General Industry
• HAZWOPER
• Hazardous Waste RCRA/WA Dangerous Waste Management
• ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800

04

Which statement best describes your experience identifying workplace hazards and recommending corrective actions?

• I routinely conduct formal safety inspections, identify hazards, recommend corrective actions, document findings, and communicate recommendations to leadership.
• I regularly identify workplace hazards, recommend corrective actions, and document findings as part of my job duties.
• I identify and report workplace hazards and unsafe work practices when observed.
• I have limited experience identifying workplace hazards.
• I have no experience identifying workplace hazards.

05

Which statement best describes your experience applying safety regulations and using personal protective equipment (PPE) and fall protection equipment?

• I routinely interpret and apply safety regulations while training or overseeing others in the proper use of PPE and fall protection equipment.
• I regularly apply safety regulations and properly use PPE and fall protection equipment in my work.
• I have experience using PPE and following established safety procedures.
• I have limited experience using PPE or working under formal safety requirements.
• I have no experience in this area.

06

Which statement best describes your experience designing, leading, or supporting occupational safety and health programs?

• I have led comprehensive occupational safety and health programs with responsibility for program development, implementation, compliance, and continuous improvement.
• I have managed or coordinated major components of occupational safety and health programs.
• I have supported occupational safety and health programs as a regular part of my position.
• I have limited exposure to occupational safety and health programs.
• I have no experience with occupational safety and health programs

07

Which statement best describes your experience serving as a safety committee member or representative?

• I have chaired or led a safety committee and coordinated safety initiatives across an organization.
• I have served as an active safety committee member and regularly contributed to safety improvements.
• I have participated in safety committee meetings or supported committee activities.
• I have limited exposure to safety committee activities.
• I have no experience serving on a safety committee.

08

Which statement best describes your experience with respirator fit testing?

• I have independently performed both qualitative and quantitative respirator fit testing and managed respiratory protection program activities.
• I have performed qualitative and quantitative respirator fit testing under established procedures.
• I have assisted with respirator fit testing or respiratory protection programs.
• I have received respirator training but have not performed fit testing.
• I have no experience with respirator fit testing.

09

Which statement best describes your experience leading cross-functional projects?

• I have independently planned, led, and successfully completed multiple cross-functional projects involving diverse stakeholders.
• I have managed projects involving multiple work groups from planning through completion.
• I have participated as a team member on cross-functional projects.
• I have limited experience working on projects.
• I have no project leadership experience.

10

Which statement best describes your approach to supporting a safe and collaborative workplace?

• I consistently take initiative, promote continuous improvement, mentor others, and collaborate across work groups to improve safety and customer service.
• I regularly work independently while collaborating with others to improve safety and operations.
• I effectively contribute as a team member and support safe work practices.
• I have limited experience working in a collaborative safety-focused environment.
• I have no experience working in a collaborative safety-focused environment.

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