Assistant Project Engineer - South Seattle



Assistant Project Engineer - South Seattle

Salary

$87,564.00 - $112,296.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle - S. Seattle, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

22DOT-NWR-1W043

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

07/06/2022

Closing Date

8/3/2022 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 is currently seeking an Assistant Project Engineer in our South Seattle office. The Assistant PE will be responsible and accountable to assist the Project Engineer with the administration of assigned construction projects, effectively and efficiently implementing region and statewide procedures and processes to meet the objectives and performance measures of the Region Construction Program and the biennial commitments established. Our top candidate must be a leader with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills who is able to foster a spirit of collaboration and teamwork and be diligent about supporting and developing their staff to become future leaders of the department. Initiative, diplomacy, an aptitude for problem solving, and a passion for continuous improvement are highly prized by the agency and a must for an individual to thrive in this pivotal role.
 
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Project Engineer will:

  • Strategically plan the budget, schedule, and workforce necessary to deliver Capital Improvement and Preservation Program (CIPP) projects. Manage an office of professional and technical engineers, including summer interns, temporary employees, and engineering consultants.
  • Lead delivery of multiple transportation improvement and fish passage projects are completed according to current policies and standards, effective engineering techniques and good engineering judgment.
  • Ensure assigned project are managed in accordance with WSDOT policy and procedures to meet the desired scope, schedule, budget, and documentation while being delivered in an environmentally responsible manner.
  • Serve as a liaison to outside agencies, the media, and members of the public.
  • Report on status of projects to Regional and Statewide Executive Management teams.
  • Coordinate input and resolve conflicts across internal/external organizations and agencies to ensure project compliance and resolve issues as they arise.
  • Certify engineering design, with a Washington state professional engineering stamp, in the Project Engineer's absence.
  • Provide direction and make timely, effective decisions to deliver assigned design and construction projects successfully.
  • Other duties as assigned.
 
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
  • Washington Professional Engineer (PE) License in Civil Engineering or the ability to acquire a WA State PE license within six (6) months of employment. 
  • Knowledge of management skills and the ability to apply these principles.
  • A strong background in design and construction, and the ability to work with others to solve major design and construction changes.
  • This position requires a strong civil engineering background including an extensive knowledge of the following:
    • Highway design and plan, specification and estimate preparation
    • Highway construction and construction practices
    • Surveying and surveying practices
    • WSDOT highway engineering practices, technical procedures, and management processes
    • The principles of management
    • WSDOT's goals and objectives
    • Transportation issues and problems, transportation design
    • Environmental laws, regulations, and issues
    • Programming and budget procedures
    • Right of way acquisition processes
    • Limited access and access management laws and guidelines
    • Legislative processes
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written with the ability to evaluate, coordinate, and respond to customers and staff.
  • The ability to create and manage work schedules for multiple employees and tasks.
  • The ability to manage personnel; and have proven experience in developing effective working relationships with others at all levels.
  • The ability to simultaneously manage and monitor the budgets for multiple projects.
  • The availability to response 24 /7 to address emergencies and emergent issues.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
  • A Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or a related field.
  • Eight (8) years of experience in delivering design and construction projects.
  • WSDOT experience in procuring projects through the design build and design bid build processes.
  • Knowledge of FHWA processes and requirements related to delivering federally funded projects and ensure WSDOT meets federal stewardship obligations.
  • Knowledge and experience managing change.
 
Important Notes 
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.   
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County. 
  • This position requires a Professional Engineers License issued by the State of Washington. Incumbent will be expected to obtain a WA State PE license within six (6) months of appointment.
  • The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. However, the first review of applications will be conducted August 2, 2022. The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible.
  • 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 11 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; 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.
 
Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Robyn Lovely at LovelyR@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 22DOT-NWR-1W043 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
Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.
  • I have a Master's degree or higher.
  • I have a Bachelor's degree.
  • None of the above
02
If you indicated completion of an Bachelor's degree or higher, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, type N/A.
03
Are you currently licensed as a Professional Engineer in the State of Washington?
  • Yes
  • No
  • I am licensed in another state
04
If you have a PE License, in which State are you Licensed? Otherwise, type N/A.
05
Please select all of the following you have extensive knowledge of:
  • Highway design and plan, specification and estimate preparation
  • Highway construction and construction practices
  • Surveying and surveying practices
  • WSDOT highway engineering practices, technical procedures, and management processes
  • The principles of management
  • WSDOT's goals and objectives
  • Transportation issues and problems, transportation design
  • Environmental laws, regulations, and issues
  • Programming and budget procedures
  • Right of way acquisition processes
  • Limited access and access management laws and guidelines
  • Legislative processes
  • None of the above
06
Do you have the ability to response 24 /7 to address emergencies and emergent issues?
  • Yes
  • No
07
Please select the response the best describes your total years of experience in delivering design and construction projects.
  • I have over twelve (12) years of this experience.
  • I have 11 – 12 years of this experience.
  • I have 10 – 11 years of this experience.
  • I have 9 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 8 – 9 years of this experience.
  • I have less than eight (8) years of this experience.
08
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
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
  • 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

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

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