Marine Mechanical Engineer - Washington State Ferries

Full Job 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!

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 Mechanical Engineer to support Vessel Engineering in maintaining and improving the reliability of the existing fleet while contributing to the design of future vessels.

This role plays a critical part in developing engineering plans, reports, and specifications that ensure vessel systems meet federal regulatory standards and operational requirements.

By supporting all onboard mechanical systems and coordinating with internal teams and regulatory agencies, this position helps ensure vessels operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with U.S.

Coast Guard regulations. The work directly contributes to dependable ferry service and WSF’s mission to provide safe, reliable transportation for the traveling public.

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 Marine Mechanical Engineer will:

• Plan, direct, and participate in design, construction, renovation, and modification of marine mechanical systems.
• Coordinate with vessel engineering staff on estimates and execution for system additions and new construction.
• Assume responsibility for designs; sign and seal drawings, specifications, and reports.
• Analyze and prepare documents to modify, improve, or replace mechanical systems and performance.
• Prepare technical memos, reports, and recommendations.
• Coordinate with staff, contractors, and regulators; review designs and identify deficiencies.
• Conduct ship checks and inspections to ensure compliance with specifications and regulations.
• Provide consultation, develop cost estimates, oversee consultant work, and train staff.
• 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:

• Service Orientation
• Demonstrates responsiveness to stakeholder needs and takes action to support team, project, and operational objectives.
• Continuous Learning and Adaptability
• Actively pursues professional development and demonstrates the ability to learn and apply new tools, technologies, and engineering practices.
• Marine Mechanical Engineering Experience
• Demonstrated experience in a shipyard or consulting Naval Architecture/Marine Engineering design environment working with shipboard mechanical systems.
• Professional Engineering Licensure
• Current Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in Mechanical Engineering, or ability to obtain Washington State licensure within six months of appointment.
• Engineering Analysis and Technical Problem Solving
• Ability to perform engineering calculations using first principles and develop technical solutions for modification, installation, or repair of shipboard systems.
• Technical Design and Documentation
• Experience preparing, reviewing, and validating engineering drawings, sketches, reports, and technical documentation.
• Technical Writing and Communication
• Ability to produce clear, concise, and well-structured technical correspondence and reports.
• Project Execution and Task Management
• Ability to execute complex assignments, follow direction, and meet project timelines and deliverables.
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Communication
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and coordinate effectively with team members, contractors, and fleet personnel.
• Marine Piping Systems Design
• Experience analyzing and designing piping systems used in marine applications.
• Digital and Computer Proficiency
• Working knowledge of computer systems and Windows-based applications used to support engineering work.
• Regulatory and Credential Compliance
• Ability to obtain and maintain Washington State PE licensure (if not already licensed) and a valid TWIC card within required timeframes.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Marine Operations Environment Experience
• Experience working in an operational marine or vessel environment supporting engineering or maintenance activities.
• Public Sector Regulatory Knowledge
• Familiarity with public sector processes, regulations, and compliance requirements impacting engineering projects.
• Specialized Engineering Software Proficiency
• Experience using industry-specific software (e.g., PipeFlo, Rhino3D, ShipConstructor) to support engineering design and analysis.

Important Notes

• 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 357-28of 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 renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-90265 in the subject line.