IT Vendor Management - Senior/Specialist

Salary : $94,620.00 - $127,248.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-04809
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 11/02/2026
Closing Date: 11/9/2026 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 technology vendor management professional to provide advanced technical and organizational leadership for the acquisition, governance, performance, risk, and lifecycle management of vendor-provided technology products and services supporting the agency's highest-priority business initiatives and legislative mandates. Located within the Enterprise Implementation Office, this position will lead strategic technology vendor management initiatives, oversee enterprise technology acquisitions and third-party services, provide guidance on technology procurement and contract management, and coordinate with business and technology teams, vendors, and stakeholders across WSDOT. The position will also lead efforts to modernize and streamline the agency's technology vendor management program, including centralized vendor management processes and tools, contract development, vendor selection and onboarding, performance management, escalations, and compliance with applicable laws and OCIO policies, standards, and guidelines.
What to Expect

The Enterprise Implementation (EI) Office aligns technology and technology resources with customer needs by delivering the agency's highest-priority and time-sensitive technology investments. Within the Technology Services Division (TSD), the Technology Vendor Management Team works collaboratively with technology subject matter experts, business units, contract managers, and external vendors to research, evaluate, procure, track, and manage technology products and services consistent with WSDOT's business strategy, architecture, procurement requirements, and financial policies. The centralized vendor management approach provides enterprise-wide consistency and supports WSDOT and partner agencies by streamlining technology procurement and lifecycle management, ensuring vendor deliverables and third-party services meet requirements, and supporting effective management of technology contracts and vendor relationships.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the IT Vendor Management - Senior/Specialist will:

• Provide strategic, tactical and operational planning for technology vendor management support services.
• Lead technology acquisition planning by evaluating vendor-provided products and services for alignment with agency strategic and tactical technology plans and enterprise requirements.
• Partner with technology owners, managers, staff, and business areas to define and prioritize acquisition requirements.
• Lead technology acquisition planning by evaluating vendor-provided products and services for alignment with agency strategic and tactical technology plans and enterprise requirements.
• Work directly with IT vendors (all levels and multi-discipline leads) to negotiate contracts and conduct day to day business for Enterprise IT business and contracting needs.
• Lead discussions w/vendors to resolve issues and handle agency escalations.
• Partner in the evaluation and negotiation of vendor contracts and acquisitions.
• Establish and maintain vendor contracts/acquisitions and assure their efficacy in meeting customer needs.
• Collaborate with business, technical, and procurement stakeholders to identify and evaluate potential vendors based on business needs, technical requirements, and service expectations.
• Establish methods and processes to develop and maintain efficient vendor engagement processes that support effective communication, productive relationships, and shared expectations
• Analyze inherent technology vendor risk and use due diligence to manage vendors.
• Develop and maintain vendor evaluation, management and oversight guidelines, standards, and support procedures per agency and state policies and regulations.

Qualifications

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

• IT Vendor Management: Demonstrated experience managing IT vendor relationships, vendor-delivered services, and technology integration across multiple IT disciplines. Knowledge and understanding of vendor risks to an organization and the ability to recognize, monitor, manage, and mitigate those risks.
• Technology Products and Services: Demonstrated experience evaluating vendor-provided technology products and services and conduct technical reviews with subject matter experts to support vendor selection, acquisition, and alignment with business and technical requirements.
• Technology Procurement: Demonstrated experience developing, evaluating, or responding to State requests for proposals, qualifications, quotes, or other procurement solicitations (RFXs).
• IT Contracts and Work Orders: Demonstrated ability to develop and administer IT professional services, work orders and contracts, including defining and establishing technical requirements, deliverables, performance expectations, and vendor responsibilities.
• Technology Requirements and Integration: Demonstrated experience analyzing complex technology requirements, evaluating vendor solutions, resolving system integration issues, and coordinating technical and operational solutions and remediation plans with vendors, contracting office, technical teams, and business stakeholders.
• Microsoft Operating Systems: Knowledge and understanding of Microsoft operating systems and their integration within enterprise technology environments. Extensive use of Microsoft productivity applications including SharePoint, Teams and ADO.
• Technology Asset Lifecycle Management: Demonstrated ability to follow technology asset procurement and lifecycle management processes for Enterprise technology acquisitions.
• Contract Management Certification: Completion of Contract Management 401 - Advanced Contract Management - High Risk Course, successful completion of the required course assessment within three (3) months of appointment.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

• Technology and Business Disciplines: Advanced knowledge and understanding spanning multiple technology and business disciplines, including technology systems, applications, infrastructure, and vendor technology lifecycles.
• Technology Vendor Solutions: Advanced knowledge and experience managing, implementing, deploying, maintaining and operating business systems, applications, and technology vendor solutions.
• Process and Policy Alignment: Experience defining and establishing strategic, enterprise level processes and procedures that benefit the organization by aligning multiple initiatives, resources, and priorities at the enterprise level.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• 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 applicableInformation on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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 ;/li>

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 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.

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. NOTE: This information may 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 ;br>
Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-04809 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


Please describe your most recent experience managing IT vendors, including the types of services or technology solutions and business disciplines supported. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.
02


IT Vendor Management: Please select the response that best describes your experience managing IT vendor relationships, vendor-delivered services, technology integration, and vendor risks.

• Advanced: Independently manage complex IT vendor relationships and vendor-delivered services across multiple technology disciplines; establish governance, monitor performance, identify and mitigate vendor risks, and coordinate integration among vendors, technical teams, and business stakeholders.
• Intermediate: Independently manage IT vendor relationships and vendor-delivered services, including monitoring performance, addressing vendor risks, and coordinating technology integration with technical teams and stakeholders.
• Basic: Support the management of IT vendor relationships or vendor-delivered services, including monitoring performance, identifying issues, or assisting with vendor risk management.
• Limited: Have limited exposure to IT vendor relationships, vendor-delivered services, or vendor risk management.
• None: No experience in this area.

03


Technology Products and Services: Please select the response that best describes your experience evaluating vendor-provided technology products and services and conducting technical reviews.

• Advanced: Independently lead evaluations of complex vendor technology products or services, coordinate technical reviews with subject matter experts, and make recommendations based on business, technical, security, operational, and other requirements.
• Intermediate: Independently evaluate vendor technology products or services and coordinate technical reviews with subject matter experts to assess alignment with business and technical requirements.
• Basic: Participate in evaluations or technical reviews of vendor-provided technology products or services under established processes or direction.
• Limited: Have limited exposure to evaluating vendor-provided technology products or services.
• None: No experience in this area.

04


Please describe your experience evaluating vendor-provided technology products or services. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
05


Technology Procurement: Please select the response that best describes your experience developing, evaluating, or responding to State requests for proposals, qualifications, quotes, or other procurement solicitations (RFXs).

• Advanced: Independently develop, evaluate, or respond to complex State RFXs, including developing requirements, evaluation criteria, solicitation documents, vendor responses, and recommendations.
• Intermediate: Independently develop, evaluate, or respond to State RFXs, including reviewing requirements, vendor responses, and evaluation materials.
• Basic: Participate in developing, evaluating, or responding to State RFXs under established processes or direction.
• Limited: Have limited exposure to State RFXs or similar procurement solicitations.
• None: No experience in this area.

06


Please describe your experience with State RFXs or similar procurement solicitations, including your role and the types of solicitations you have worked with. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
07


IT Contracts and Acquisitions: Please select the response that best describes your experience developing and administering IT professional services, acquisitions and contracts.

• Advanced: Independently develop and administer complex IT contracts or professional services acquisitions, including defining technical requirements, deliverables, performance expectations, vendor responsibilities, and contract management processes.
• Intermediate: Independently administer IT contracts or acquisitions and contribute to defining technical requirements, deliverables, performance expectations, and vendor responsibilities.
• Basic: Support the development or administration of IT contracts or acquisitions under established processes or direction.
• Limited: Have limited exposure to IT contracts or acquisitions.
• None: No experience in this area.

08


Please describe your experience developing and administering enterprise acquisitions and contracts, and professional IT services including the types of solicitations, vendor lifecycles and your role in each. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
09


Technology Requirements and Integration: Please select the response that best describes your experience analyzing complex technology requirements, evaluating vendor solutions, resolving integration issues, and coordinating technical solutions.

• Advanced: Independently analyze complex technology requirements, evaluate multiple vendor solutions, resolve complex system integration issues, and coordinate technical solutions among vendors, technical teams, and business stakeholders.
• Intermediate: Independently analyze technology requirements, evaluate vendor solutions, resolve integration issues, and coordinate solutions with vendors and technical or business teams.
• Basic: Participate in analyzing technology requirements, evaluating vendor solutions, or resolving integration issues with guidance or established processes.
• Limited: Have limited exposure to technology requirements analysis, vendor solutions, or system integration.
• None: No experience in this area.

10


Microsoft Operating Systems: Please select the response that best describes your knowledge and experience with Microsoft applications used in enterprise technology environments.

• Advanced: Extensive knowledge and hands-on experience administering, integrating, troubleshooting, and supporting Microsoft applications within complex enterprise technology environments.
• Intermediate: Strong knowledge and hands-on experience supporting and troubleshooting Microsoft applications within enterprise technology environments.
• Basic: Working knowledge of Microsoft applications and their integration within technology environments, with some hands-on experience.
• Limited: General familiarity with Microsoft operating systems with limited hands-on experience.
• None: No knowledge or experience in this area.

11


Please describe your experience with technology procurement and lifecycle management, including the types of vendor products and services you have managed. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
12


Technology Vendor Solutions: Please select the response that best describes your experience managing, implementing, and operating business systems, applications, and technology vendor solutions.

• Advanced: Work independently with developers to develop, configure, manage, implement, and operate complex business systems, applications, and technology vendor solutions, including reporting, vendor coordination, implementation planning, operational support, performance management, and issue resolution.
• Intermediate: Independently manage, implement, or operate business systems, applications, or technology vendor solutions, including coordinating with vendors and supporting implementation or operations.
• Basic: Support the implementation or operation of business systems, applications, or vendor technology solutions under established processes or direction.
• Limited: Have limited exposure to business systems, applications, or technology vendor solutions.
• None: No experience in this area.

13


Please describe your experience and role managing, implementing, technology vendor solutions, using vendor management applications and business systems. Please include the technologies and applications involved. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
14


Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.

• I have a master's degree or higher.
• I have a bachelor's degree.
• I have an associate's degree.
• I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• None of the above

15


If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.
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