Coatings & Steel Preservation Engineer (Vessel Project Engineer) - Washington State Ferries

Description

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.

The Opportunity

WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking a Coatings and Steel Program Manager to lead critical vessel preservation efforts that support the long-term safety, reliability, and performance of the Washington State Ferries fleet. This position serves as WSF’s technical expert for coating systems and steel preservation, overseeing complex maintenance and repair projects that help minimize vessel downtime and extend the service life of ferry assets. Working closely with shipyard partners, vessel crews, and agency stakeholders, this role plays a key part in maintaining dependable ferry service for the traveling public and the communities WSF serves. Through strong leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to WSF’s core values of Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate, this position helps advance operational excellence and stewardship across the fleet.

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.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Coatings & Steel Preservation Engineer will:

• Lead the team conducting annual ship condition surveys to assess coating systems and steel condition; document findings and prioritize preservation projects.
• Analyze corrosion and coating data to support repair planning, vessel preservation strategies, and capital planning efforts.
• Coordinate short- and long-term preservation work with Port Engineers, Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility, and Preservation Engineers during vessel layups.
• Maintain fleet-wide coating and steel condition records; prepare reports and project recommendations for management review.
• Oversee contractor coating and steel replacement work during scheduled Eagle Harbor vessel layups to ensure compliance with specifications, schedules, budgets, and regulatory standards.
• Supervise inspectors, manage contract administration, negotiate change orders, review submittals, and approve project payments and closeout documentation.
• Develop technical specifications, scopes of work, and cost estimates for commercial coating and steel replacement projects.
• Provide technical guidance and training to vessel crews and maintenance staff on coating maintenance, preservation practices, and industry best practices.

Qualifications

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

• Marine Project Management – Demonstrated ability to manage complex marine maintenance, repair, and overhaul projects from planning through completion. Experience developing project work scopes, schedules, and budgets; coordinating multiple contractors and work activities; resolving technical and schedule conflicts. Proven ability to evaluate project milestones and determine production metrics.
• Industrial Coating Systems Expertise – Thorough knowledge of industrial coating systems including surface preparation standards (SSPC/NACE/AMPP), coating application methods, quality control procedures, and failure analysis. Experience with marine coating specifications, inspection techniques, and acceptance criteria. Familiarity with coating system selection for different marine environments and substrates.
• Steel Preservation and Welding Knowledge – Knowledge of shipboard structural steel repair and replacement procedures, welding processes (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW), and applicable codes and standards (AWS D1.1, ABS Rules). Understanding of corrosion mechanisms, cathodic protection systems, and preventive maintenance strategies for marine steel structures. Ability to interpret welding procedure specifications and evaluate weld quality.
• Contract Administration and Washington State Contracting – Knowledge of public sector contracting rules and procedures, including Washington State procurement requirements. Demonstrated experience with contract administration including specification development, change order negotiation, invoice review, and contractor performance management. Ability to interpret and enforce contract terms and conditions.
• Vessel Surveying and Inspection – Experience conducting vessel condition surveys and inspections to assess coating and structural integrity. Ability to document findings through detailed written reports and photographic evidence. Knowledge of classification society requirements and USCG regulations related to vessel preservation.
• Technical Communication and Collaboration – Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical information clearly to diverse audiences including vessel crews, contractors, management, and regulatory agencies. Experience developing specifications, technical reports, and training materials. Ability to exercise sound and independent professional judgment in making decisions and providing advice.
• Service-Oriented – Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with vessel crews, contractors, inspectors, and other stakeholders to resolve issues and deliver projects that support fleet reliability. Experience adapting approaches to meet the unique needs of different teams and situations.
• Growth Mindset – Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth. Ability to stay current with evolving coating technologies, steel preservation methods, and regulatory requirements. Demonstrated commitment to knowledge transfer and crew development through training and mentorship

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• NACE or SSPC coating inspector certification (CIP Level 1, 2, or 3).
• Experience with vessel preservation programs.
• Valid USCG license as Chief Engineer (Limited-near Coastal) or Second Assistant Engineer Steam and/or Motor Vessel Unlimited.
• AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalent qualification.
• Experience working with OMWBE goals and small business contractor development.

Important Notes

• This position offers flexible/hybrid telework options and is eligible for remote work. Regular travel throughout the Puget Sound region is required, including visits to the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility, commercial shipyards, and WSF vessels. The position is expected to work onsite approximately 2–3 days per week at Eagle Harbor and various shipyard locations.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County
• 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 Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28of the Washington Administrative Code.
• 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 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.
• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees mayearn 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. 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.

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 www.uscis.gov

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-91017 in the subject line.