Ferries Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $88,754.00 - $119,422.00 Annually
Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-90229
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Washington State Ferries
Opening Date: 08/11/2026
Closing Date: 9/1/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
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 Marine Inspector Specialist to help ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of vessel preservation repair projects that keep Washington State Ferries operating at their best. In this role, you will serve as a key field representative during shipyard contracts, helping ensure contractor work meets established technical standards while supporting the long-term maintenance and integrity of the fleet. Working collaboratively with internal teams and external partners, you will contribute to continuous process improvements that strengthen fleet maintenance and operational excellence. By upholding WSF's core values of Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate, you will play an important role in delivering safe, dependable ferry service to the communities of Washington State.
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 Inspector Specialist Marine will:

• Inspect ferry vessel construction, preservation, structural, and piping work to verify compliance with contract requirements, technical specifications, approved drawings, and regulatory standards.
• Monitor contractor performance, document inspection activities, identify deficiencies, and verify corrective actions throughout project execution.
• Serve as a liaison between contractors and the Vessel Project Engineer to interpret contract requirements, resolve field issues, and provide technical clarification.
• Assist in developing and reviewing technical specifications, work requests, contract documents, and change orders.
• Evaluate structural, system, and material requirements, identify potential issues, and prepare project documentation, including reports and red-line markups.
• Review and approve contractor-furnished equipment, materials, drawings, and construction work for compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
• Support equipment commissioning, start-up activities, and factory acceptance testing to ensure successful project completion.
• 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:

• Marine Engineering and Vessel Systems - Knowledge of marine vessel systems including Structural steel, piping systems and preservation processes with the ability to learn more shipboard systems. Demonstrated proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings, technical specifications, and condition reports for marine vessels. Ability to assess vessel material condition, diagnose system deficiencies, and recommend repair approaches that align with operational requirements and industry standards.
• Quality Assurance and Inspection activities - Knowledge of marine quality assurance practices, inspection protocols, and acceptance standards for shipyard work. Demonstrated proficiency evaluating contractor-furnished material and workmanship, and processing condition deficiency reports. Ability to identify noncompliant work and require corrective action consistent with contract terms.
• Regulatory Compliance and Coordination - Knowledge of marine regulatory requirements applicable to vessel preservation work, including United States Coast Guard, Environmental Protection Agency, and state-level requirements. Demonstrated proficiency in coordinating with regulatory agencies during active shipyard work. Ability to interpret regulations, apply them to in-progress repair activity, and communicate compliance expectations to contractors and inspection staff.
• Service-Oriented - Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others. Proven success in fostering and developing constructive and collaborative organization-wide relationships, with the ability to lead through communication and trust-building, seeking and welcoming different perspectives toward shared outcomes. Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Growth Mindset - Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth. Demonstrated ability to self-reflect, identify personal and professional strengths and growth areas, and adapt to new challenges through innovative solutions.
• Safety and Field Operations - Demonstrated ability to safely perform work in active shipyard and vessel environments by maintaining situational awareness, following established safety practices, navigating challenging work areas, and performing the physical activities necessary to conduct inspections and support vessel maintenance operations. Shall have the ability to independently move and maintain balance and mobility on uneven surfaces, climbing ladders and stair towers, and accessing various areas of vessels including confined spaces, bilges, and heights up to 30 feet. Requires the ability to maintain awareness of surroundings and hazards in an active work environment.

• Required Credential - Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within six (6) months of hire.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Marine Engineering Credentialing - Demonstrated knowledge of marine vessel machinery operation and oversight at a level typically reflected by a United States Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer (Limited-Near Coastal), Second Assistant Engineer Steam, Second Assistant Engineer Motor Vessel Unlimited, or equivalent demonstrated experience overseeing marine vessel machinery systems.
• Owner's Representative Experience - Demonstrated proficiency serving as an owner's representative, regulatory inspector, or shipyard project supervisor responsible for repair, overhaul, or renovation of steam or motor vessels in a commercial or governmental shipyard.
• Ferry System Operations - Familiarity with ferry system maintenance environments, fleet preservation cycles, or comparable marine repair operations supporting a recurring service schedule.

Important Notes

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit

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 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.
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-90229 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 infor