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 Naval Architect to support the design, preservation, and continuous improvement of Washington State Ferries' vessels, helping ensure safe, reliable, and efficient ferry service for the traveling public. This position provides professional engineering expertise for vessel modifications, regulatory compliance, and new vessel design while supporting the long-term reliability and performance of the nation's largest ferry system. Working collaboratively with engineering staff, regulatory agencies, and project partners, the Naval Architect develops innovative solutions that enhance fleet safety, operational readiness, and service to the communities we serve. This role also advances Washington State Ferries' core values of Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate while contributing to the agency's mission of providing safe, dependable transportation.
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 Naval Architect will:
- 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
- Plan, design, and execute naval architectural and structural engineering projects for WSF vessels and facilities.
- Prepare, review, sign, and seal engineering drawings, calculations, specifications, estimates, and technical reports.
- Analyze vessel performance and develop engineering solutions for structural modifications and improvements.
- Coordinate with engineering staff, operations, contractors, consultants, and regulatory agencies to support project delivery.
- Review designs, conduct ship checks, and ensure work complies with project specifications and regulatory requirements.
- Provide technical oversight and develop task statements and cost estimates for capital and maintenance projects.
- Review consultant work and evaluate structural installations and marine equipment.
- Mentor and train engineering staff and support the development of installation packages.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Marine Engineering & Naval Architecture Experience: Experience supporting vessel design, repair, modification, or construction projects within a shipyard, marine engineering, or naval architecture environment.
- Engineering Software Proficiency: Experience using engineering software and standard computer applications to support engineering design, analysis, documentation, and project delivery.
- Engineering Analysis: Demonstrated ability to apply engineering principles to evaluate vessel structures, hydrostatics, stability, and shipboard systems, and develop technically sound engineering recommendations.
- Technical Documentation: Skill in interpreting and preparing engineering drawings, technical specifications, calculations, reports, and other engineering design documentation.
- Technical Problem Solving: Ability to analyze complex engineering issues, apply sound engineering judgment, and develop effective solutions related to vessel systems, structures, and performance.
- Collaboration & Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with Preservation Project Engineers, Staff Chiefs, and multidisciplinary teams to support engineering projects and resolve technical issues.
- Technical Communication: Ability to communicate technical information clearly and effectively with engineers, vessel personnel, contractors, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders through both written and verbal communication.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Marine Regulatory Compliance: Experience applying U.S. Coast Guard regulations, Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVICs), or other marine industry standards applicable to passenger vessels.
- Public Sector Knowledge: Knowledge of public sector policies, procedures, contracting requirements, or regulatory processes relevant to engineering or capital projects.
- Marine Design Software: Experience using marine engineering and design software such as GHS, AutoCAD, Navisworks, Rhino3D, or comparable engineering applications.
Important Notes
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- 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-90154 in the subject line.
