Change Order Engineer (TE3

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!

WSDOT is seeking a Change Order Engineer to support the SR 520 Bridge Replacement and HOV Program in Seattle, WA. This position plays a key role in administering change orders for major design‑build construction contracts while ensuring contract modifications are technically sound, thoroughly documented, and aligned with agency policies and project goals. As a member of the Construction Business Team, you will collaborate with engineers, project managers, contractors, and subject matter experts to evaluate contract changes, develop cost estimates, review contractor submittals, and support contract compliance.

Your work directly contributes to the successful delivery of high‑profile transportation projects that improve safety, mobility, and quality of life throughout Washington.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Develop construction contract change orders by researching contract requirements, coordinating with technical experts, preparing change order documentation and justifications, developing independent engineer's estimates, and processing approvals through electronic management systems.
• Review proposed contract changes and provide recommendations during change management meetings to support timely and effective project decisions.
• Participate in Design‑Build Change Management meetings to discuss proposed changes, ask clarifying questions, and support contract administration activities.
• Review contractor schedule updates and other contract submittals to verify compliance with contract requirements.
• Review eligible third‑party invoices and provide payment recommendations.
• Evaluate internal cost and schedule reports, identify discrepancies, and coordinate corrections as needed.
• Assist with reviewing quarterly and monthly contract reports, reconcile comments, and verify compliance before contractor submittal.
• Provide day‑to‑day leadership, coaching, and performance management for one Transportation Engineer 2 while fostering a respectful, collaborative, and inclusive work environment.

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

• Engineering Knowledge and Application: Demonstrated ability to apply civil engineering principles and technical knowledge to transportation projects while evaluating issues and recommending practical engineering solutions.
• Leadership: Ability to supervise, coach, mentor, and support employee development while fostering accountability, collaboration, and respectful working relationships; including evaluating performance, identifying training needs, and resolving personnel issues.
• Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Experience reading, interpreting, analyzing, and producing contract plans, specifications, and cost estimates in accordance with project requirements and engineering standards, as well as complex construction plans, provisions, and standards.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills to communicate technical information clearly to a variety of stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and the public.
• Construction Change Management: Experience developing, evaluating, and administering change orders on design‑build construction projects.
• Technology Proficiency: Proficiency using Microsoft 365 applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook, and construction management software, including Construction Contract Information System (CCIS).
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service‑Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that…