Salary : $155,844.00 - $194,772.00 Annually
Location : King County - Seattle - Downtown Business, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 25DOT-HQ-0E216
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 09/02/2025
Closing Date: 9/23/ :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 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!
The Opportunity WSDOT is currently seeking an accomplished executive leader to serve as Assistant Secretary for Urban Mobility, Access, and Megaprograms (UMAM). This role provides strategic direction and oversight for some of Washington's most complex and high-profile transportation initiatives, including major tolling operations and megaprograms such as the SR 520 Program, I-405/SR 167 Corridor Program, Puget Sound Gateway Program, Cascadia High Speed Rail, and the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program. Reporting directly to the Deputy Secretary of Transportation, the Assistant Secretary ensures these programs are delivered with innovation, efficiency, and collaboration while addressing the evolving mobility needs of the Puget Sound region and the greater Portland-to-British Columbia corridor.
We are looking for a visionary and collaborative leader with deep expertise in transportation systems, large-scale program delivery, and policy development. The ideal candidate will bring strong executive leadership skills, a track record of building partnerships across jurisdictions and agencies, and the ability to navigate the intersection of transportation, technology, and community needs. This is an opportunity to shape the future of integrated, multimodal mobility across one of the nation's fastest-growing regions and ensure Washington's transportation system remains resilient, equitable, and forward-looking for decades to come.
What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Secretary - UMAM will:
- Determine the overall focus of projects and positions within UMAM's divisions and megaprograms.
- Lead, represent and correspond with Federal, State, and local elected/appointed officials, Indian Tribes, advisory groups, community groups, business organizations, business owners, property owners, and other citizens as necessary.
- Initiate new and/or interpret and direct policies to accomplish program elements with high levels of public and legislative interest, such as the future of managed lanes, high-speed rail, current and upcoming tolled facilities, and the I-5 system border-to-border.
- Collaborate and integrate regional planning and activities between UMAM and other WSDOT regions and divisions, as well as participate in regional and multijurisdictional committees to facilitate and drive for regional coordination and issue resolution (i.e., Puget Sound Regional Council).
- Serve as a contact for the Transportation Commission, the Governor's Office, legislative committees and staff, congressional members and staff, and other state agencies for issues of project and service delivery, as well as advising and consulting on engineering and operating procedure issues within the position's portfolio.
- Direct UMAM megaprogram and division program administrators and deputies to develop effective planning, contracting, design, and construction procedures as well as maintain and strengthen relationships with consultants and contractors within the programs.
- Work with state and local officials, public and business groups, and the media to explain and promote a tolling program; help develop statewide toll policies, directions, and recommendations for adoption by WSDOT executives, the Transportation Commission, and/or Legislature.
Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Executive Leadership & Organizational Management: Proven ability to lead large, complex organizations with a strong foundation of highly developed management, leadership skills, and strategic planning principles for customer-focused services. Skilled at translating vision into measurable goals while fostering accountability and integrity.
- Transportation Systems & Project Delivery: Expertise in multimodal transportation planning, system integration, and civil engineering practices. Demonstrated knowledge of alternative construction delivery methods and innovative solutions for complex infrastructure projects.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Intergovernmental Relations: Adept at collaborating with federal, state, local, and international partners on multi-jurisdictional initiatives. Skilled in communicating effectively with executives, legislators, the media, and the public on sensitive and high-profile issues.
- Policy, Law & Regulatory Compliance: Deep understanding of transportation-related laws and regulations - including environmental and highway design - at the local, state, and federal level. Ability to anticipate and navigate policy and legal frameworks impacting project delivery and long-term system operations.
- Financial Acumen: Strong grasp of transportation budgeting, funding mechanisms, and legislative processes at all levels of government. Skilled in resource planning, identifying funding solutions, and aligning financial strategies with organizational priorities.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Degree in engineering, transportation planning, business administration, public administration, or related field.
- Extensive experience dealing with media on challenging issues.
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting. Important Notes - This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- Frequent in-state and occasional out-of-state travel is required.
- 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
- 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 Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference
25DOT-HQ-0E216 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 .
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
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated
01
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience leading large, complex organizations, including translating vision into goals, strategic planning, and ensuring accountability in customer-focused services.
- I have over twenty (20) years of this experience.
- I have 15 - 20 years of this experience.
- I have 12 - 15 years of this experience.
- I have 10- 12 years of this experience.
- I have less than ten (10) years of this experience.
02
Please select the response that best describes your experience leading large, complex organizations, including translating vision into goals, strategic planning, and ensuring accountability in customer-focused services.
- I have not held management or leadership responsibilities.
- I have supervised a small team or unit and supported goal setting.
- I have managed a department or program and developed goals tied to customer outcomes.
- I have directed multiple departments or divisions and established accountability systems across teams.
- I have overseen a large, complex organization and translated vision into enterprise-wide goals and performance measures.
03
Please briefly describe how you gained experience leading large, complex organizations, including translating vision into goals, strategic planning, and ensuring accountability in customer-focused services. If you do not have this experience, please type N/A.
04
Please select the response that best describes your experience with multimodal transportation systems, infrastructure planning, and project delivery.
- I have no experience with transportation systems or project delivery.
- I have assisted on transportation projects or supported engineering staff.
- I have managed components of transportation projects, such as planning or design.
- I have led end-to-end delivery of multimodal projects, including use of alternative delivery methods.
- I have directed large-scale, complex transportation programs and implemented innovative project delivery solutions.
05
Please briefly describe how you gained experience with multimodal transportation systems, infrastructure planning, and project delivery. If you do not have this experience, please type N/A.
06
Please select the response that best describes your experience engaging with stakeholders, government partners, and the public.
- I have no experience engaging stakeholders or government partners.
- I have provided information to stakeholders under supervision.
- I have represented my organization in meetings with stakeholders or partner agencies.
- I have led negotiations or facilitated collaboration across multiple jurisdictions.
- I have served as the primary organizational representative to executives, legislators, media, and the public on high-profile issues.
07
Please briefly describe how you gained experience engaging with stakeholders, government partners, and the public. If you do not have this experience, please type N/A.
08
Please select the response that best describes your experience applying transportation-related laws, policies, and regulations.
- I have no experience with transportation-related laws or policies.
- I have applied established policies and followed regulatory procedures in assigned work.
- I have interpreted and advised on regulations affecting transportation projects.
- I have developed or influenced policy and ensured compliance on complex projects.
- I have directed organizational compliance strategies and anticipated regulatory impacts on long-term system operations.
09
Please briefly describe how you gained experience applying transportation-related laws, policies, and regulations. If you do not have this experience, please type N/A.
10
Please select the response that best describes your experience with transportation budgeting, funding mechanisms, and financial strategy.
- I have no experience with budgeting or funding processes.
- I have monitored budgets or tracked expenditures for projects.
- I have developed and managed project or program budgets.
- I have overseen budgets across multiple programs and identified funding solutions.
- I have directed large-scale transportation budgets, secured funding at multiple levels, and aligned financial strategies with organizational priorities.
11
Please briefly describe how you gained experience applying transportation-related laws, policies, and regulations. If you do not have this experience, please type N/A.
12
Do you have a degree in engineering, transportation planning, business administration, public administration, or related field.
13
Please list your degree and field of study, or type N/A.
14
Do you have experience dealing with media on challenging issues?
15
Frequent in-state and occasional out-of-state travel is a requirement of this role. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?
16
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
- COMTO
- APWA
- "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
- Radio advertisement
- WSDOT Employment Site
- Careers.wa.gov
- governmentjobs.com
- Other (specify below)
17
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
