Assistant Program Manager – Transportation Technical Engineer

Salary : $89,271.00 – $120,078.00 Annually

Location : Multiple Locations – Western Washington, WA

Job Type: Full Time – Permanent

Remote Employment: Remote Optional

Job Number: 23DOT-NWR-12469

Department: Dept. of Transportation

Division: Northwest Region

Opening Date: 05/17/2023

Closing Date: 6/7/2023 11:59 PM Pacific

Description

About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world’s longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world’s widest tunneling project.

The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Technical Engineer to serve as the Assistant Program Manager for the I-405/SR 167 Program in Bellevue, WA. There are telework options available for this position. With minimal supervision and reporting to the Program/Business Manager, the Assistant Program Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of program budget, monitoring and forecasting project expenditures and programming activities for the complex $4 billion funded Program. This position is critical in fostering a respectful and healthy work environment with focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Program Manager will:

  • Provide Program Management and Project Control & Reporting tasks for all I-405/SR 167 Program projects using strong understanding of these functions as they relate to preliminary engineering, right-of-way, and construction phases as well as regulations for expenditure of state, local, and federal funds.
  • Manage funding and expenditure oversight for the over $4 billion funded I-405/SR 167 Program, including any federally funded Emergency Relief projects in accordance with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) regulations.
  • Review, monitor, track, and analyze project expenditures and cost estimates in a variety of tools such as the Cognos Data Warehouse, Financial Information Retrieval System (FIRS), Estimates and Bids Analysis System (EBASE), and Contract Administration and Payment System (CAPS) used for monthly aging and cost updates entered in the Capital Program Management System (CPMS) to maintain and report on the program delivery plan.
  • Manage work order authorization (WOA) process in the Electronic Content Management (ECM) Portal by overseeing staff who monitor and verify that accurate accounting of funding authorizations and expenditures are processed in the Transportation Reporting and Accounting Information System (TRAINS).
  • Coordinate with Project Managers, Program Management and Cost, Control and Reporting staff to ensure accurate cost data development, report preparation, development of funding scenarios, expenditure forecasts, aging, and the identification and resolution of funding issues.
  • Assist the Program/Business Manager in administering all consultant-contracting and payment activities for the I-405/SR 167 Program through understanding of WSDOT’s consultant contracting procedures and processes.
  • Assist the Program/Business Manager in book-building and Legislative budget requests entered in the Transportation Executive Information System (TEIS).
  • This position closely coordinates with Regional Program Management and Consultant Liaison Offices, Headquarters (HQ) Capital Program Development and Management Division (CPDM), HQ Accounting and Financial Services (AFS), HQ Consultant Services Office (CSO), and co-located consultant team to accomplish required processes for smooth program delivery.

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

  • One (1) year of experience as a Transportation Engineer 4 or equivalent (Bridge Engineer 4 or Transportation Planning Specialist 4)

OR

  • Three (3) years of experience as a Transportation Engineer 3, Bridge Engineer 3, Transportation Planning Specialist 3

AND

  • Experience with program management or project delivery including budget management.
  • Possession of a valid Driver’s License.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in related field.
  • Knowledge of design-build principles.
  • Strong understanding of program management and project controls and reporting functions as they relate to preliminary engineering, right-of-way, and construction phases.
  • Experience in managing consultant contracts and processing contracts and invoice payments.
  • Understanding of WSDOT’s consultant contracting procedures and processes.
  • Strong analytical skills to gather and interpret data; skillfully compile and summarize large amounts of data and provide recommendation for reporting to managers and executives.
  • Excellent customer service orientation and effective communication skills.
  • Experience effectively and efficiently using a variety of computer software, mainframe, and internet tools to organize, track, schedule and prioritize work.
  • Have excellent spreadsheet skills and experience with agency specific computer programs, including accounting programs, data extraction programs, and databases specific to the position and others as assigned (TEIS, CPMS, TRAINS, EBASE, CAPS, PMRS, ECM Portal, FIRS, Cognos Data Warehouse, etc.)
  • Demonstrate the capability to use good judgment and proficiency in solving problems while making decisions in a timely and effective manner.
  • Effective management skills to direct and schedule the work of others.

Important Notes

  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position is eligible for remote work up to 100%, per supervisor approval.
  • In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 4% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2023.
  • 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit

Why WSDOT

  • Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 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.

Check out this video to learn more:

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.

Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at Please be sure to reference Assistant Program Manager #12469 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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022

01

Please select the response that best describes your highest level of education:

  • Master’s degree or higher
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Associate’s or Technical (2-year) degree
  • Some college, no degree
  • High School Diploma
  • None of the above

02

Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as a Transportation Engineer 4 or equivalent (Bridge Engineer 4 or Transportation Planning Specialist 4):

  • I have three (3) or more years of this experience
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience
  • I have 1 – 2 years of this experience
  • I have less than one (1) year of this experience
  • I do not have this experience

03

Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as a Transportation Engineer 3, Bridge Engineer 3, Transportation Planning Specialist 3:

  • I have five (5) or more years of this experience
  • I have 4 – 5 years of this experience
  • I have 3 – 4 years of this experience
  • I have less than three (3) years of this experience
  • I do not have this experience

04

Do you have experience with program management or project delivery including budget management?

  • Yes
  • No

05

Please briefly describe your experience with program management or project delivery including budget management. If you do not have this experience, please note ‘N/A’.

06

Do you have a valid drivers license?

  • Yes
  • No

07

Do you have experience in managing consultant contracts and processing contracts and invoice payments?

  • Yes
  • No

08

Please describe your experience compiling and summarizing large amounts of data for reporting purposes. If you do not have this experience, please note ‘N/A’.

09

Do you have experience supervising others?

  • Yes
  • No

10

Please describe your supervisory/leadership experience. If you do not have this experience, please note ‘N/A’.

11

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • “NOW HIRING” banner/sign
  • Radio advertisement
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)

12

If you selected ‘Other’ on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

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