Assistant Project Engineer



Assistant Project Engineer

Salary

$83,400.00 - $106,956.00 Annually

Location

Clark County – Vancouver, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

22DOT-SWR-4W050

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Southwest Region

Opening Date

07/26/2022

Closing Date

8/10/2022 11:59 PM Pacific

Description



About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project. 

 

The Opportunity

WSDOT has an exciting opportunity for an experienced engineer in the Columbia Gorge Project Engineering Office (PEO) as the Assistant Project Engineer. Located in Vancouver, WA, this position is responsible for assisting with the strategic planning and leadership necessary to ensure the successful delivery of the assigned areas transportation design and construction projects. In this role, you will be responsible for assisting with mentoring and developing an engineering staff of approximately 20-30 engineers. Work requires collaboration and coordination with other regions, project offices, local agencies, Tribes, FHWA and permitting agencies. The selected candidate will ensure all assigned projects are managed according to WSDOT policy, delivered on schedule, within budget, as well as constructible, maintainable, and cost effective. In addition to project oversight, this position will provide staff a balanced workplace, promoting training and development for professional growth and upward mobility, employee safety, workforce diversity, and pride in ownership. Your work will be pivotal in meeting the goals of this agency.
 
What to Expect

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

  • Assist the Project Engineer in managing the daily operations of an engineering field office of approximately 20-30 employees.
  • Accurately apply policy and standards to highway design elements and construction contract administration and complete the projects safely, on time, and within budget.
  • Provide management and leadership for area program development, design, and construction administration by establishing and implementing policies and procedures that promote efficient use of resources and tax dollars. This responsibility also includes management of consultant agreements.
  • Lead the development of a well-trained, motivated, and diverse workforce. Empower staff to have more control of procedures and outcomes with clearly defined accountabilities.
  • Coordinate with Maintenance to define programming needs, providing technical assistance on issues and the management, development, and administration of emergency contracts.
  • Coordinate with area local agencies to effectively address needs associated with the State transportation system and to provide technical assistance as needed. 
  • Facilitate, partner, and maintain effective working relationships with Federal, State, County and City officials to assure compliance with the laws, regulations, and policies within their respective jurisdictions. 
  • Facilitate, partner, and maintain effective working relationships with private contractors and consultants to assure compliance with the laws, regulations, and policies on construction contracts and consultant agreements. 
  • Manage the development and administration of agreements with developers related to the State transportation system to ensure that the interests of the State are met. 


Qualifications

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

  • A Professional Civil Engineer License.
  • A valid driver’s license. 
  • Experience developing and managing budgets.
  • Experience planning projects.
  • Experience designing and administering complex transportation projects.
  • Experience managing a diverse workforce in the simultaneous development and delivery of multiple projects from scoping through construction.
  • Experience interpreting laws and regulations pertaining to environmental, land use, access management, real estate acquisition and contract law.
  • Experience developing and maintaining partnerships with local, state and federal agencies in a variety of areas.
  • Experience effectively communicating and negotiating challenging issues with various stakeholders and facilitate

agreement between groups with competing interests.

  • Experience making responsible and timely decisions based on an array of complex and competing issues.
  • Excellent and effective communication skills both written and verbal, to clearly communicate with employees and the public.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • A Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or closely related degree field.
  • Knowledge of Agency mission, values, goals, and business direction.
  • Knowledge of state and local political structures and issues.
  • Knowledge of laws and regulations at the local, state, and federal levels that impact delivery of transportation systems.
  • Managing projects large in scope and directing staff.
  • Knowledge of the Department budgeting and planning processes.
  • Knowledge of the environmental documentation and permitting processes.
  • Knowledge with real estate acquisition processes.
  • Knowledge of utility franchises and easements.
  • Experience leading complex project design and/or construction projects, providing guidance, mentoring, coaching, motivating, and sound decision making.

 

Important Notes 

  • This position requires a Professional Engineers License issued by the State of Washington. License holders from other states will be expected to obtain a WA State PE license within six (6) months of appointment. 
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a condition of employment with WSDOT. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.  
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.  
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 10 paid holidays, full-time employees 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 and 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. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities 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. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

 

Contact us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Rachel Giese at GieseR@wsdot.wa.govPlease be sure to reference 22DOT-SWR-4W050 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. That's 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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022

01
Are you a registered Professional Engineer in Washington State?
  • Yes
  • No
  • I am a registered Professional Engineer in another state
02
Do you have a valid drivers license?
  • Yes
  • No
03
Do you have a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or closely related degree field?
  • Yes
  • No
04
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience managing design or construction contracts.
  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have 1 – 2 years of this experience.
  • I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
05
Please briefly describe your experience managing design efforts.
06
Please briefly describe your experience managing construction contracts.
07
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience managing/supervising a diverse workforce.
  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have 1 – 2 years of this experience.
  • I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
08
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as a licensed professional engineer, in the construction or design of highways, bridges, and related structures.
  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have 1 – 2 years of this experience.
  • I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
09
By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all WSDOT employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position. Are you willing to accept and comply with this condition of employment?
  • Yes
  • No
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
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • COMTO
  • "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

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact