Vessel Project Engineer - Washington State Ferries

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 world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation.

Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washington's 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.

WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking a Vessel Project Engineer to support the safe, reliable operation of the nation’s largest ferry system through the oversight of critical vessel preservation and repair projects. This position plays a key role in coordinating shipyard repair contracts, managing project scope, schedule, and cost, and helping minimize vessel downtime to maintain dependable service for the traveling public.

Working closely with internal teams and contractors, the Vessel Project Engineer helps ensure repair work is completed to high technical and safety standards while supporting efficient ferry operations. This role contributes directly to WSF’s mission by applying sound engineering judgment, collaboration, and continuous improvement to help keep vessels operating safely and reliably for the communities we serve.

As we navigate a once‑in‑a‑generation transformation to decarbonize our system — guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow, Navigate — and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People — there’s never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.

• Direct vessel repair and overhaul projects in contractor shipyards to support ferry preservation and reliability.
• Provide technical direction to WSF Inspectors and oversee contractor performance, schedules, and work quality.
• Negotiate and approve contract change orders, design revisions, and new work scope.
• Manage contract administration activities including invoicing, reporting, compliance documentation, logistics, and close‑out.
• Develop technical specifications and repair plans for vessel preservation and maintenance projects.
• Coordinate pre‑contract activities, design development, and stakeholder communication for scheduled maintenance availabilities.
• Provide engineering guidance to resolve vessel system deficiencies and warranty‑related issues.
• Serve as the primary liaison between WSF, contractors, and regulatory agencies to ensure inspection, compliance, and contract standards are met.
• 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.

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

• Construction Management and Contract Administration
  • Knowledge of construction contract administration principles, change order processes, and project controls applicable to marine repair and overhaul work. Demonstrated proficiency in managing contractor performance, evaluating progress against schedule and budget, and approving change orders within delegated authority.
  • Ability to actively manage cost, scope, and schedule across concurrent preservation projects to deliver assigned work within contract terms and operational windows.
• Marine Engineering and Vessel Systems
  • Knowledge of marine vessel systems including propulsion, auxiliary machinery, hull, electrical, and shipboard mechanical systems. Demonstrated proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings, technical specifications, and condition reports for marine vessels. Ability to assess vessel material…