Job Details
Assistant State Construction Engineer (WMS3)
2026-01-15 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
Construction Engineering & Contract Administration
Advanced Skills with:
Important Notes
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:
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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-0W151e 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 (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 (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 , 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
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 the State of Washington?
02
If you indicated you currently have a PE license, please list your license number, otherwise enter N/A.
03
Construction Engineering & Contract Administration: Please select the response that best describes your experience with construction engineering, contract administration, and project delivery.
04
Please briefly describe your knowledge of AASHTO/ASTM standards, construction materials, and quality assurance practices. If you do not have this knowledge, please enter N/A.
05
Please select the response that best describes your experience with construction claims processes and documentation standards.
06
Risk, Policy & Compliance: Please select the response that best describes your experience with risk assessment and risk-based decision-making.
07
Please select the response that best describes your experience developing and implementing statewide policies or specifications.
08
Please select the response that best describes your experience with DBE, MSVWBE, EEO, and civil rights compliance.
09
Industry & Interagency Collaboration: Please select the response that best describes your experience working with construction industry organizations (e.g., AGC, WACA, WAPA).
10
Policy, Specification & Procedure Development: Please select the response that best describes your experience developing or revising statewide specifications, policies, or procedures.
11
Please briefly describe your experience negotiating complex contract changes or disputes. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
12
Leadership & Mentoring: Please briefly describe your experience coaching and mentoring construction or engineering staff. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
13
Compliance & Oversight: Please select the response that best describes your experience conducting oversight reviews, inspections, or audits.
14
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
15
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
Salary : $114,504.00 - $146,784.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 25DOT-HQ-0W151e
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 01/13/2026
Closing Date: 2/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
The Washington State Departmentof 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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is seeking a senior construction leader to provide statewide leadership and technical oversight for the administration of WSDOT construction projects. This position will direct and support multiple regions and Construction Project Engineers on complex construction, contract, and policy matters, including developing and updating department construction policies to reflect current technologies, practices, and procedures. The Assistant State Construction Engineer serves as a liaison between Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), regional offices, and the construction industry; represents the Department on agency-industry teams; facilitates interagency and industry coordination; and provides training and mentorship to regional staff in construction administration, project management, and engineering practices. Our top candidate will bring advanced leadership, collaboration, and communication skills; sound engineering judgment; and in-depth knowledge of construction administration.
What to Expect
The Construction Division is comprised of two units, the State Construction Office and the State Materials Laboratory. The State Construction Office is responsible for maintaining and evolving policies and procedures regarding construction contracts including the Standard Specifications, Construction Manual, and providing technical expertise for the construction and administration of the contracts to the Regions. The State Construction Office monitors and advises on legislative proposals that could impact the administration of WSDOT's contracts, and this office has proposed and passed legislation. This office also represents the department regarding contract administration to other state agencies, Local Agencies, industry and FHWA.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant State Construction Engineer will:
- Maintain communication with industry to assess specification effectiveness and implement new products, materials, and research.
- Develop new and revised specifications, policies, and procedures; and assist in the dissemination of these to all statewide offices.
- Provide direct monitoring and oversight of activities in assigned field offices and assigned regions.
- Approve/disapprove change orders for construction contracts that are beyond the authority of the regions.
- Provide troubleshooting services to region managers and project engineers.
- Ensure compliance with WSDOT/FHWA stewardship agreement.
- Assist in training and insuring compliance with Minority, Small, Veteran, and Women's Business Enterprise (MSVWBE)and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) programs.
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
Construction Engineering & Contract Administration
- Principles and practices of construction engineering, contract administration, and project delivery.
- AASHTO and ASTM standards, construction materials, and quality assurance practices.
- State and federal public contracting laws, including RCW, WAC, and federal regulations.
- Claims processes, and documentation standards.
- Construction practices, methods, andconstructability analysis.
- Alternate dispute resolution processes, claim prevention, and resolution methods.
- Risk assessment and risk-based decision-making principles.
- Policy development, specification writing, and implementation of statewide technical guidance.
- DBE, MSVWBE, EEO, and civil rights program compliance requirements.
- Knowledge of roles and functions of construction industry associations (AGC, WACA, WAPA, etc.).
- Knowledge of interagency coordination processes with FHWA, Attorney General's Office, OEO, and Local Programs.
- Experience developing and revising statewide specifications, policies, and procedures based on industry needs, research, and observing program performance.
- Demonstrated skills to facilitate dispute resolution between regions and contractors.
- Demonstrated skills to lead negotiations on high-stakes construction issues and contract changes.
- Experience and skill in writing clear, technically accurate specifications, policy documents, and formal correspondence.
- Experience delivering presentations and training to diverse audiences.
- Experience facilitating multi-party meetings involving internal stakeholders, FHWA, contractors, and industry groups.
- Skilled in providing coaching, mentoring, and technical guidance to regional construction personnel and peer managers.
- Skilled in leading collaborative teams and participating in agency/industry committees.
- Demonstrated skills in determining compliance with state and federal contracting requirements and documentation standards.
- Demonstrated skills in conducting oversight reviews, final inspections, and federal-aid audits.
- Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Takes action to meet the needs of others.
- Licensed as a Professional Engineer in the state of Washington or licensed as a PE in another state with the ability to obtain licensure in Washington State within six (6) months of hire.
- Ability to mentor and train staff in construction administration, project management, and engineering requirements.
- Ability to lead statewide initiatives and ensure uniform application of policy and standards.
- Ability to make independent decisions on complex engineering issues, specification interpretation, entitlement determinations, time extensions, and contract changes.
- Ability to conduct risk assessments and make financially and legally defensible recommendations.
Advanced Skills with:
- Federal funding participation rules and eligibility criteria.
- New and emerging construction technologies, materials, or methods.
- Legislative processes or rulemaking related to construction programs.
- Advanced skill in technical writing, including specifications and complex policy documents.
- Experience administering or overseeing Design-Build, GCCM, or other alternative delivery contracts.
- Experience leading statewide or agency-level policy development initiatives.
- Experience serving as a liaison with FHWA, Attorney General's Office, or federal oversight bodies.
- Experience conducting construction audits, project reviews, or federal compliance reviews.
- Prior leadership of industry committees, technical working groups, or multi-agency teams.
- Experience negotiating complex contract changes, value engineering proposals, or high-cost construction
- disputes.
- Experience managing or influencing large-scale construction programs exceeding $500M annually.
- Construction claims management
- Dispute resolution/mediation
- Risk management
- Specification writing
Important Notes
- 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- 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, please visit www.uscis.gov
- 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 telework options for eligible positions.
- Paid Leave - In addition to 12 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 for more information.
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. NOTE: This information may 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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-0W151e 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 (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 (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 , 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
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 the State of Washington?
- Yes
- No, I am licensed in another state
- No
02
If you indicated you currently have a PE license, please list your license number, otherwise enter N/A.
03
Construction Engineering & Contract Administration: Please select the response that best describes your experience with construction engineering, contract administration, and project delivery.
- Extensive experience independently managing complex construction contracts and delivery methods, including entitlement decisions, claims, and contract changes
- Experience administering construction contracts and supporting delivery decisions for moderately complex projects
- Limited experience supporting construction contract administration under supervision
- No experience
04
Please briefly describe your knowledge of AASHTO/ASTM standards, construction materials, and quality assurance practices. If you do not have this knowledge, please enter N/A.
05
Please select the response that best describes your experience with construction claims processes and documentation standards.
- Extensive experience leading claim evaluations, documentation, and resolution
- Experience supporting claims review and documentation
- Limited experience assisting with claims documentation
- No experience
06
Risk, Policy & Compliance: Please select the response that best describes your experience with risk assessment and risk-based decision-making.
- Extensive experience conducting formal risk assessments and making defensible recommendations
- Experience applying risk principles to project-level decisions
- Basic familiarity with risk concepts
- No experience
07
Please select the response that best describes your experience developing and implementing statewide policies or specifications.
- Led statewide policy/specification development and implementation efforts
- Participated significantly in policy/specification development
- Limited experience reviewing or providing input
- No experience
08
Please select the response that best describes your experience with DBE, MSVWBE, EEO, and civil rights compliance.
- Extensive experience ensuring compliance and resolving deficiencies
- Experience monitoring and supporting compliance activities
- Limited exposure to compliance requirements
- No experience
09
Industry & Interagency Collaboration: Please select the response that best describes your experience working with construction industry organizations (e.g., AGC, WACA, WAPA).
- Regularly represent an agency and collaborate with industry leadership
- Periodically engage with industry groups on projects or initiatives
- Limited exposure or attendance only
- No experience
10
Policy, Specification & Procedure Development: Please select the response that best describes your experience developing or revising statewide specifications, policies, or procedures.
- Led development based on research, performance data, and industry input
- Contributed substantively to revisions
- Limited experience reviewing drafts
- No experience
11
Please briefly describe your experience negotiating complex contract changes or disputes. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
12
Leadership & Mentoring: Please briefly describe your experience coaching and mentoring construction or engineering staff. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
13
Compliance & Oversight: Please select the response that best describes your experience conducting oversight reviews, inspections, or audits.
- Lead reviewer for construction oversight or federal-aid audits
- Participate as a team member in reviews or audits
- Limited exposure to oversight activities
- No experience
14
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- Direct Email Notification
- WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
- Career Fair
- Monster
- WorkSource
- AASHTO
- NACTO
- "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
- Radio advertisement
- WSDOT Employment Site
- Careers.wa.gov
- governmentjobs.com
- Other (specify below)
15
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question