Port Engineer - Maintenance - Washington State Ferries

About WSDOTThe 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 manages the world’s longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, 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 OpportunityWSF a division of WSDOT is currently seeking to fill a Port Engineer - Maintenance position. The Port Engineer is responsible for managing shoreside maintenance and supervising engine department crews to ensure the safe and efficient operation of assigned vessels. This position oversees vessel maintenance, repairs, lay-ups, and refits; administers preventive maintenance programs; and serves as the primary liaison with the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure compliance with all safety regulations. The Port Engineer provides leadership to licensed and unlicensed engineering staff, manages maintenance budgets and schedules, and responds to vessel and equipment casualties to support reliable ferry operations.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 ExpectAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Port Engineer- Maintenance will:Manage day-to-day engine room operations and maintenance for assigned vessels, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient compliance with USCG and regulatory standards.Supervise licensed and unlicensed engine department staff, provide repair direction, promote a safe and inclusive workplace, and coordinate with USCG on inspections and corrections.Oversee vessel repairs, including emergency response, vendor coordination, specifications for machinery repairs, and communication with management and Operations staff.Manage vessel maintenance procedures and schedules using CMMS; set priorities with vessel staff and recommend items for major refurbishment projects.Develop and manage labor and material budgets for assigned vessels, including payroll, travel expenses, lay-up budgets, and shipyard activities.Oversee staffing and personnel scheduling in accordance with Collective Bargaining Agreements, budget constraints, and regulatory requirements.Monitor and analyze fuel, oil, forensic, and USCG reports; ensure discrepancies are resolved and regulatory closures completed.Serve as part of the Port Engineer team, providing 24/7 on-call support on a rotational basis and covering for other Port Engineers as needed.The position is responsible for overnight fleet support for approximately two separate weeks every three months.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.QualificationsTo be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:Marine Engineering Licensure & ExperienceCurrent or prior USCG Chief Engineer’s license (or military equivalent).Sailing experience, to include experience in charge of an engine room.Valid Driver LicenseVessel Maintenance & Repair CompetenceExperience with diesel and diesel-electric vessels.Knowledge of vessel repair, maintenance, preservation, and project management.Regulatory & Safety ComplianceKnowledge of USCG, OSHA, WISHA, IMO, EPA, DOE, and related safety/environmental regulations.Ability to implement Safety Management System (SMS) policies and procedures.Emergency Response & Operational Decision-MakingDemonstrated ability to respond quickly and decisively in vessel or equipment emergencies.Budget & Project ManagementExperience developing and managing vessel budgets, capital expenditures, and procurement.Labor Relations & Personnel ManagementExperience supervising licensed/unlicensed staff, managing labor contracts, and addressing personnel issuesPlanning & Asset ManagementCompetence in life cycle cost analysis, vessel management planning, and use of munication & DocumentationProficiency in English (oral and written).Experience writing policies, procedures, and technical reports.Technical & Computer ProficiencyStrong computer skills; ability to use multiple engineering and administrative software applications.It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:Port Engineer ExperiencePrevious shoreside experience as a Port Engineer overseeing vessel maintenance and operations.Advanced EducationBachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering or related field.Important NotesIn 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 357-28 of 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 WSDOTWork-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. PlanFor 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 ApplyApplications 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 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 UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please reference 25DOT-WSF-M00P4 in the subject line. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-21