Real Estate Services Manager (WMS Band 3)

Salary : $103,632.00 - $132,936.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-OR-3W006
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Olympic Region
Opening Date: 06/16/2026
Closing Date: 6/29/2026 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!
The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking an experienced and strategic Real Estate Services Manager to lead the Olympic Region Real Estate Services (RES) Office in Lacey, WA. In this critical leadership role, you will oversee a multidisciplinary team of professionals and consultants responsible for delivering all right of way functions that support the successful development of transportation projects throughout the region. By guiding complex real estate, acquisition, relocation, property management, and project delivery activities, you will play a pivotal role in advancing projects from planning to construction while supporting WSDOT's mission to provide safe and reliable transportation for Washington's communities.
As the leader of the Olympic Region RES program, you will manage real estate assets within the agency's portfolio, including properties held for future transportation needs and those designated for disposal. Your expertise will help ensure timely right of way certification, allowing projects to move forward to construction, while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations that preserve the agency's eligibility for critical federal funding. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a high-impact program, influence regional transportation investments, and help shape the future of Washington's transportation system.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Real Estate Services Manager will:

• Provide leadership, management, and oversight to the Olympic Region Real Estate Services Office.
• Work directly with Project Development, Program Management, Maintenance and other agency organizations.
• Responsible for addressing personnel issues relating to proper staffing levels, leave and travel approval, and actions pertaining to corrective action.
• Recommend employee hiring selections and formal personnel actions to the appointing authority.
• Provide training opportunities and coach and mentor staff to ensure success.
• Direct supervisors in scheduling the operations of employees.
• Implement strategies to increase employee engagement through appreciation, recognition, and inclusion.
• Evaluate, monitor, set goals, and provide guidance and procedures for staff; provide clear and concise expectations
• Travel to field sites, private properties and other state facilities.
• Ensures proper application of all Collective Bargaining Agreements, and all federal and state labor laws.
• Ensure compliance with training and license requirements for employees. Implement performance management best practices.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

• Strategic Planning and Organizational Alignment: Demonstrated ability to support or lead strategic planning efforts, including setting priorities, establishing performance expectations, and aligning resources to organizational and program goals.
• Real Estate and Right-of-Way Program Management and Support: Demonstrated experience supporting or managing real estate, right-of-way, property acquisition, appraisal, relocation or property management programs, preferably within a public-sector or transportation environment.
• Real Estate Program Leadership in Capital and Transportation Projects: Experience leading or supporting real estate functions for capital environment, transportation, or infrastructure programs involving multiple stakeholders and regulatory requirements.
• Advanced Knowledge of Federal and State Real Estate Requirements: Advanced working knowledge of federal and state real estate requirements, including the Uniform Act, CFR, RCW, WAC, and FHWA real estate program standards, and demonstrated ability to apply these requirements in complex or non-routine situations.
• Regulatory Interpretation and Compliance in Real Estate Programs: Demonstrated ability to interpret, apply, and ensure compliance with applicable federal and state real estate laws, regulations, and policies including: Uniform Relocation Assistance, and Real Property Acquisition Polices Act(Uniform Act). Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Washington Administrative Code (WAC) FHWA real estate program standards. WSDOT right-of-way acquisition and property management policies.
• Right-of-Way and Property Acquisition Expertise: Advanced understanding of the agency's authority under eminent domain to obtain to complete property acquisitions to include right-of-way certification, appraisal review, acquisition processes, relocation requirements, property valuation, title research, and property management.
• Complex Program and Budget Management: Demonstrated ability to manage large, complex programs and budgets, including prioritizing work, allocating resources, and ensuring cost-effective and compliant delivery of program outcomes.
• Leadership, Coaching, and Workforce Development: Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, mentor, and develop a diverse workforce, foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, and support employee performance and accountability. Can build trust across functional groups to achieve results.
• Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, and Problem-Solving: Demonstrated skill in negotiation, conflict resolution, and problem-solving, including working with property owners, legal counsel, and regulatory partners.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• The ability to obtain and hold a notary in six (6) months from hire date.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Industry Experience: Demonstrated experience in real property appraising, property negotiations, public property management, or selling, leasing or buying real estate often obtained through professional experience or education.
• Consultant Contract Oversight and Quality Assurance: Experience overseeing consultant contracts, including scoping work, monitoring performance, ensuring quality assurance/quality control, and verifying regulatory compliance.
• Risk-Based Decision-Making and Judgment: Ability to make timely, defensible decisions involving significant financial, legal, and programmatic risk, balancing cost, schedule, compliance, and stakeholder considerations.
• Complex Communication and Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with staff, executive leadership, attorneys, elected officials, external agencies, consultants, and the public on complex and sensitive real estate matters. Ability to build trust through open communication, approachability, and integrative listening.
• Political Acumen and Professional Judgment: Experience navigating high-profile, politically sensitive, or complex stakeholder environments with professionalism and sound judgment.
• Policy and Program Development: Experience contributing to the development, implementation, or refinement of policies, procedures, or best practices to improve program effectiveness, compliance, and customer service.
• Adaptability and Strategic Issue Management: Ability to anticipate emerging issues, adapt to changing priorities, and implement practical solutions within regulatory and policy constraints. An understanding of highway design requirements and construction practices as impacted by right of way issues. An understanding of the principles of project and program management.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 3% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.
• 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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 a 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 of 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 recruiter listed.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Please be sure to reference Real Estate Services Managers #3W006 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 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

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
01


Which statement best describes your experience supporting or leading strategic planning efforts for an organization, division, or program?

• I have led organization-wide or multi-program strategic planning efforts, established priorities, aligned resources, and monitored performance outcomes.
• I have led strategic planning efforts for a program, office, or business unit and helped align resources to achieve organizational goals.
• I have participated in strategic planning efforts and contributed to goal setting and performance measures.
• I have limited exposure to strategic planning through project participation or training.
• I have no experience with strategic planning activities.

02


Please briefly describe your experience supporting or leading strategic planning efforts for an organization, division, or program. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
03


What is your experience establishing performance expectations and measuring organizational success?

• Extensive experience developing performance measures, evaluating outcomes, and implementing improvements across multiple programs.
• Experience developing and monitoring performance measures for a program or work unit.
• Experience tracking performance measures developed by others.
• Limited exposure through training or observation.
• No experience.

04


Which statement best describes your experience managing or supporting real estate or right-of-way programs?

• Extensive experience managing large-scale real estate, right-of-way, acquisition, relocation, appraisal, and property management programs.
• Significant experience managing one or more major real estate or right-of-way functions.
• Experience supporting real estate or right-of-way activities as part of a project or program team.
• Limited exposure through coursework, training, or occasional assignments.
• No experience.

05


Please briefly describe your experience managing or supporting real estate or right-of-way programs. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
06


In which environment have you gained the majority of your real estate or right-of-way experience?

• Public-sector transportation or infrastructure agency.
• Public-sector real estate or land management program.
• Private-sector transportation, utility, or infrastructure projects.
• General real estate services not related to transportation or infrastructure.
• No relevant experience.

07


Which statement best describes your experience leading or supporting real estate functions for capital, transportation, or infrastructure projects?

• I have led real estate and right-of-way activities for multiple large, complex capital or transportation projects.
• I have managed real estate functions for individual capital or infrastructure projects.
• I have supported project delivery activities related to acquisitions, relocations, or property management.
• I have limited exposure to capital project delivery processes.
• I have no experience supporting capital or transportation projects.

08


Please briefly describe your experience leading or supporting real estate functions for capital, transportation, or infrastructure projects. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
09


Which statement best describes your knowledge and application of federal and state real estate requirements (Uniform Act, CFR, RCW, WAC, FHWA standards)?

• Advanced knowledge with extensive experience interpreting and applying requirements in complex or non-routine situations.
• Strong working knowledge and regular application of requirements in project delivery activities.
• General knowledge with occasional application of requirements.
• Limited familiarity through training or education.
• No knowledge or experience.

10


What is your experience conducting compliance reviews, audits, or quality assurance activities related to real estate programs?

• Extensive experience leading compliance reviews and resolving findings.
• Experience conducting reviews and recommending corrective actions.
• Experience participating in reviews conducted by others.
• Limited exposure through training.
• No experience.

11


Please briefly describe your experience conducting compliance reviews, audits, or quality assurance activities related to real estate programs. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
12


What is your experience with eminent domain and condemnation processes?

• Extensive experience managing or overseeing condemnation actions and eminent domain processes.
• Experience supporting condemnation actions and working with legal counsel.
• Limited experience through project participation.
• Familiar with the process but have not directly participated.
• No experience.

13


Please briefly describe your experience with eminent domain and condemnation processes. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
14


What is your experience completing or overseeing right-of-way certification activities?

• Extensive experience certifying right-of-way for multiple transportation projects.
• Experience preparing or reviewing right-of-way certification documentation.
• Experience supporting certification activities.
• Limited familiarity with certification requirements.
• No experience.

15


Which statement best describes your experience managing complex programs and budgets?

• Extensive experience managing large, multi-million-dollar programs and budgets with multiple funding sources.
• Experience managing significant program budgets and resource allocations.
• Experience monitoring budgets and expenditures for projects or work units.
• Limited exposure to budget management activities.
• No experience.

16


Which statement best describes your leadership experience?

• Extensive experience leading managers, supervisors, and professional staff across multiple work units or programs.
• Experience supervising and developing professional staff and teams.
• Experience leading projects, teams, or workgroups without direct supervisory authority.
• Limited leadership experience through temporary assignments or acting roles.
• No leadership experience.

17


Which statement best describes your negotiation experience involving property owners, legal representatives, consultants, or regulatory agencies?

• Extensive experience leading high-stakes negotiations involving complex legal, financial, or regulatory issues.
• Significant experience independently negotiating agreements and resolving disputes.
• Experience participating in negotiations as a team member.
• Limited exposure through observation or training.
• No experience.

18


Do you have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?

• Yes
• No

19


How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

20


If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question