Transportation Planning Specialist 4 - Washington State Ferries
Job details
- Location
- Seattle, Washington
- Work type
- Hybrid
- Compensation
- $84,520 - $113,639/yr
- Posted
- 2 weeks ago
- Apply on
- governmentjobs.com
About this role
About the Department
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 Hazardous Materials Specialist to provide technical leadership in hazardous materials management and stormwater compliance throughout the shipyard and aboard vessels. This position helps protect employees, communities, and the environment while supporting safe, reliable ferry operations. Through proactive compliance strategies, collaborative problem solving, and continuous improvement, this role strengthens environmental accountability and supports compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Join a team committed to responsible stewardship and public service that keeps Washington’s communities connected.
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 Transportation Planning Specialist 4 will:
- Lead hazardous materials management and regulatory compliance across WSF vessels and facilities, primarily at Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility (EHMF).
- Oversee hazardous waste storage, profiling, transport, disposal, payments, inspections, and closeout documentation; complete Turbo Waste and regulatory reports.
- Authorize hazardous materials transportation requests and maintain compliance with Federal DOT PHMSA Special Permits.
- Analyze exposure samples, coordinate with Industrial Hygiene and Safety staff, and direct and verify exposure controls and corrective actions.
- Develop hazardous materials policies, procedures, and training; lead source reduction and cross-functional safety improvements.
- Manage EHMF environmental compliance, including waste, wastewater, site safety, shipyard permits, and corrective actions under DOE and EPA regulations.
- Update SWPPP and WQMP annually; conduct wet-weather inspections, stormwater and upland sampling, and conveyance and treatment inspections.
- Ensure compliance with the EHMF Superfund Site OMMP and coordinate maintenance and modernization with vendors, engineers, and consultants.
- 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
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Growth Mindset – Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented – Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
- Technical Expertise – Advanced knowledge of hazardous materials management and environmental compliance, including the ability to interpret and apply applicable EPA,
- Washington State Department of Ecology, OSHA, PHMSA, DOT, U.S. Coast Guard, and other regulatory requirements.
- Program Leadership – Demonstrated ability to independently lead complex hazardous materials and environmental compliance programs, including developing and implementing policies, procedures, technical guidance, training, and program improvements.
- Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management – Demonstrated ability to identify, evaluate, and manage complex environmental and regulatory risks and develop effective compliance, corrective, preventive, and mitigation strategies.
- Technical Analysis – Ability to analyze environmental monitoring data, sampling and exposure results, inspection findings, compliance trends, and operational practices to identify risks and develop technically sound recommendations.
- Independent Judgment & Problem Solving – Demonstrated ability to independently analyze complex environmental, regulatory, and operational issues, evaluate alternatives, and develop practical, risk-based solutions with limited guidance.
- Technical Leadership & Influence – Ability to provide technical leadership, consultation, and direction across a complex organization and influence operational practices and decisions through subject matter expertise without direct supervisory authority.
- Collaboration & Relationship Building – Ability to establish effective working relationships and coordinate multidisciplinary efforts with operations, engineering, maintenance, safety, industrial hygiene, environmental staff, contractors, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders.
- Communication – Ability to communicate complex technical and regulatory information clearly to technical and nontechnical audiences through consultation, reports, procedures, training, and presentations, and professionally represent WSF with regulatory agencies and external stakeholders.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Advanced professional knowledge in environmental compliance and hazardous materials management.
- Independent responsibility for complex environmental and regulatory programs.
- Experience leading agency or program-wide initiatives.
- Strong analytical and policy development skills.
- Technical expertise used to influence organizational decisions and improve statewide transportation operations.
- The ability to serve as a senior subject matter expert responsible for interpreting regulations, managing environmental risk, and developing long-term compliance strategies.
Important Notes
- This position is eligible for occasional telework, with an expectation of working in the office four days per week. Periodic travel to WSF terminals and vessels is required to support hazardous materials compliance, with frequency based on project schedules and business needs.
- 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 357-28 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 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 may earn 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 [email protected]. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-91021 in the subject line.Benefits
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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
Supplemental Questions
- I have served as a senior technical resource, resolving complex regulatory interpretations and establishing compliance guidance across programs or facilities.
- I have independently interpreted and applied regulatory requirements to complex hazardous materials or environmental compliance activities.
- I have applied established regulatory requirements, seeking guidance on complex interpretations.
- I have assisted with compliance activities under direct guidance.
- I have no experience interpreting or applying these regulations.
- I have independently led complex programs across multiple facilities or organizational units, establishing policies, procedures, training, and long-term improvements.
- I have independently led a compliance program, including developing and implementing procedures, guidance, training, and improvements.
- I have managed an assigned program component, with broader program decisions reviewed by a program lead.
- I have supported program activities under direction without responsibility for program management.
- I have no experience supporting or managing these programs.
- I have established program-wide risk management strategies and verified the effectiveness of corrective, preventive, and mitigation measures.
- I have independently evaluated complex risks and developed and implemented corrective, preventive, and mitigation measures.
- I have evaluated identified risks and recommended compliance measures for review and approval.
- I have assisted with identifying risks or implementing established compliance measures.
- I have no experience performing these activities.
- I have led integrated analyses of monitoring data, sampling and exposure results, inspection findings, and operational practices to guide program-wide decisions.
- I have independently analyzed multiple sources of environmental data and developed technically supported recommendations.
- I have analyzed assigned data using established methods and prepared findings for technical review.
- I have collected, entered, or organized environmental data for analysis by others.
- I have no experience working with environmental data.
- I have independently resolved issues affecting multiple programs or facilities, evaluating alternatives and establishing long-term, risk-based solutions.
- I have independently evaluated complex issues and implemented practical, risk-based solutions within my authority, with limited guidance.
- I have evaluated issues and recommended alternatives, with a supervisor or technical lead selecting the solution.
- I have addressed routine issues using established procedures and referred complex issues to others.
- I have no experience resolving these issues.
- I have served as a senior subject matter expert whose guidance informed agency-wide or program-wide policies, investments, or operational practices.
- I have independently provided technical direction that informed decisions or changed practices across departments or facilities.
- I have provided technical recommendations to a project or operational team for consideration.
- I have supplied technical information to support recommendations developed by others.
- I have no experience providing technical guidance or recommendations.
- I have led coordination across organizational units and external stakeholders, resolving competing requirements and securing agreement on responsibilities and actions.
- I have independently coordinated compliance work among internal disciplines and external stakeholders to complete shared objectives.
- I have coordinated assigned activities with other disciplines, referring unresolved issues to a project or program lead.
- I have participated in multidisciplinary activities under direction.
- I have no experience coordinating or participating in this work.
- I have led communication on complex compliance matters, developed guidance for technical and nontechnical audiences, and represented my organization with regulators or external stakeholders.
- I have independently explained complex requirements through reports, procedures, training, or presentations and responded to stakeholder questions.
- I have prepared technical communications and explained established requirements, with review or support on complex matters.
- I have assisted with preparing materials or sharing information developed by others.
- I have no experience communicating technical or regulatory information.
- Indeed
- Direct Email Notification
- WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
- Career Fair
- Monster
- WorkSource
- Handshake
- AASHTO
- NACTO
- COMTO
- APWA
- "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
- Radio advertisement
- WSDOT Employment Site
- Careers.wa.gov
- governmentjobs.com
- Other (specify below)
Required Question
Agency Information
EmployerState of WashingtonAddress View Job Posting for Agency InformationView Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504 Website http://www.careers.wa.gov