Assistant Area Consultant Liaison Engineer (TE4)

Salary : $93,227.00 - $125,433.00 Annually
Location : King County - Shoreline, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-NWR-12769e
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Northwest Region
Opening Date: 11/12/2026
Closing Date: 11/30/2026 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 currently seeking a skilled Assistant Area Consultant Engineer (TE4) to join our team in Shoreline, WA. In this role, you will provide professional-level support to the Northwest Region Area Consultant Liaison Engineer (ACLE), helping ensure consultant contracts are successfully developed, awarded, and administered to support the delivery of vital transportation projects. You will play an important role in coordinating consultant procurement and selection, preparing and negotiating agreements, reviewing and editing contract documents, managing contract modifications, and overseeing agreement closeout in accordance with state and federal requirements. Working closely with project teams and WSDOT's Headquarters Contract Services Office, you will use your technical knowledge and independent judgment to keep projects and contract activities moving forward. You will also provide guidance to others and may step into a leadership or representative role for the Consultant Liaison Office in the ACLE's absence, helping maintain consistent, reliable services across the Northwest Region and supporting other regions when needed.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Area Consultant Engineer will:

• Support the Area Consultant Liaison Engineer (ACLE) in obtaining consultant services for the Northwest Region.
• Develop consultant requests for services, advertisements, and second-tier selections in accordance with state and federal regulations and WSDOT policies and procedures.
• Participate in and facilitate scope and fee negotiations for Architectural & Engineering (A&E) and Professional Services contracts.
• Prepare consultant agreements, supplements, task orders, and related documents for review and signature.
• Monitor consultant contract compliance with Office of Equity and Civil Rights (OECR), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Federal Small Business Enterprise (FSBE), and Minority, Small, Veteran, or Women Business Enterprise (MSVWBE) requirements and goals.
• Assist with providing guidance and training to regional staff and other Area Consultant Liaisons (ACLs) on consultant procurement processes and procedures.
• Prepare negotiation notes, Letters of Authorization, and other contractual documents as needed.
• Coordinate and prepare correspondence related to consultant agreement negotiations, compliance, and contract administration.

Qualifications

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

• Laws, Regulations, and Policy Compliance: Demonstrated knowledge and ability to interpret and apply applicable state, federal, and local laws, regulations, policies, and procedures to ensure contracts, procurements, agreements, and work products are compliant and legally defensible.
• Contract Development and Procurement: Demonstrated experience developing, reviewing, and administering contracts and procurement activities in accordance with established requirements. This includes understanding procurement methods, contract structures, terms, conditions, responsibilities, performance expectations, and risk allocation.
• Contract Negotiation and Risk Assessment: Demonstrated ability to participate in and facilitate contract negotiations, evaluate proposed agreement language, identify potential risks, and communicate the implications of contract terms to decision-makers while protecting agency interests and maintaining productive business relationships.
• Written and Verbal Communication: Demonstrated ability to communicate complex contractual, technical, and regulatory information clearly and effectively through written, verbal, and graphical formats. This includes preparing accurate and professional correspondence, reports, agreements, and other contract documents for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Customer Service and Relationship Building: Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external partners, including customers, colleagues, consultant firms, project teams, and subject matter experts, to resolve issues and support project objectives.
• Organization and Workload Management: Demonstrated ability to organize information, maintain accurate documentation, prioritize competing assignments, manage multiple deadlines, and adapt to changing work demands while maintaining accuracy, quality, and compliance.
• Technical Proficiency and Document Management: Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office applications, Adobe Acrobat, and electronic document management systems to develop, review, organize, track, and maintain accurate contract and project documentation.
• Training, Collaboration, and Knowledge Sharing: Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team, share technical knowledge, provide guidance and training to others, and offer constructive feedback to improve work quality and organizational effectiveness.
• Quality Assurance and Confidentiality: Demonstrated ability to review work products for accuracy, completeness, and compliance while exercising sound judgment and protecting sensitive and confidential information in accordance with applicable legal and ethical requirements.
• 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:

• Contract Pricing and Cost Analysis: Experience reviewing, analyzing, and interpreting engineering consultant contract pricing, cost proposals, and supporting documentation to evaluate proposed costs and fees.
• Government Contracting and Regulatory Knowledge: Knowledge of government contracting practices, including applicable Revised Code of Washington (RCW), Washington Administrative Code (WAC), state and federal regulations, and various contract types.
• WSDOT Consultant Contract Administration: Working knowledge of WSDOT's Consultant Services Manual, policies, procedures, and processes related to consultant procurement, contract development, negotiation, and agreement administration.
• Contract Administration Systems and Applications: Working knowledge of WSDOT applications used for contract and agreement administration, including TRAINS 4.0 and the Purchasing Specialist role, with an understanding of managing Delivery Orders (DO), Contracts (CT), and encumbrances.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. A flexible schedule, compressed work week, and/or telework will be considered at the incumbent's request, subject to supervisory approval.
• 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 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.

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.

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
Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference Assistant Area Consultant Engineer #12769 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 of the following best describes your experience interpreting and applying state, federal, or local laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to contracts, procurement, or agreement administration?

• I have extensive experience independently interpreting and applying complex laws, regulations, and policies to contract or procurement activities, including resolving compliance issues and ensuring legally defensible outcomes.
• I have independently applied applicable laws, regulations, and policies when developing, reviewing, or administering contracts and agreements.
• I have assisted with reviewing or applying laws, regulations, and policies to support contract or procurement activities.
• I have limited experience working with laws, regulations, or policies related to contracts or procurement.
• I have no experience in this area.

02


Please briefly describe your experience interpreting and applying state, federal, or local laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to contracts, procurement, or agreement administration. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
03


Which of the following best describes your experience developing, reviewing, or administering contracts and procurement activities?

• I have independently managed complex contract and procurement activities from initial development and solicitation through negotiation, execution, modification, and closeout.
• I have independently developed, reviewed, or administered contracts and procurement activities, including evaluating contract requirements, terms, conditions, and compliance.
• I have participated in contract development, procurement, or administration activities, including preparing or reviewing contract documents.
• I have assisted with contract or procurement documentation and administrative processes.
• I have no experience in this area.

04


Please briefly describe your experience developing, reviewing, or administering contracts and procurement activities. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
05


Which of the following best describes your experience participating in contract negotiations and evaluating contractual terms and risks?

• I have independently led or facilitated complex contract negotiations, evaluated proposed contract language, identified contractual risks, and communicated recommendations to decision-makers.
• I have actively participated in contract negotiations, evaluated contract terms and conditions, and identified potential risks or concerns.
• I have assisted with contract negotiations, reviewed proposed agreement language, or documented negotiation outcomes.
• I have limited exposure to contract negotiations or reviewing contractual terms.
• I have no experience in this area.

06


Please briefly describe your experience participating in contract negotiations and evaluating contractual terms and risks. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
07


Which of the following best describes your experience communicating complex contractual, technical, or regulatory information and preparing related written documentation?

• I regularly develop and present complex contractual, technical, or regulatory information through written, verbal, and graphical formats for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• I independently prepare and communicate detailed contract documents, agreements, reports, and correspondence requiring interpretation of complex information.
• I regularly prepare written correspondence, reports, or contract documentation and communicate related information to internal or external customers.
• I have assisted with preparing written documentation or communicating technical or contractual information.
• I have no experience in this area.

08


Which of the following best describes your experience using Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and electronic document management systems to prepare and maintain contract or project documentation?

• I have extensive experience using Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and electronic document management systems to develop, review, edit, track, organize, and maintain complex contract or project documentation.
• I regularly use Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and electronic document management systems to prepare, review, and maintain contract or project records.
• I regularly use Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat and have experience working with electronic document management systems.
• I have experience using some of these applications but limited experience with contract or project documentation.
• I have no experience in this area.

09


Which of the following best describes your experience reviewing, analyzing, or interpreting engineering consultant contract pricing, cost proposals, or supporting documentation?

• I have independently reviewed and analyzed complex engineering consultant cost proposals, including evaluating labor classifications, rates, hours, overhead, direct costs, and fee calculations.
• I have reviewed and evaluated consultant cost proposals or contract pricing to determine accuracy, reasonableness, and compliance with established requirements.
• I have assisted with reviewing consultant cost proposals, pricing documentation, or contract fee calculations.
• I have limited experience reviewing contract pricing or cost proposals.
• I have no experience in this area.

10


Please briefly describe your experience reviewing, analyzing, or interpreting engineering consultant contract pricing, cost proposals, or supporting documentation. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
11


Do you have experience performing Purchasing Specialist functions in TRAINS 4.0?

• Yes
• No

12


Do you have experience or working knowledge of WSDOT's Consultant Services Manual and its application to consultant procurement and contract administration?

• Yes - I have extensive experience independently applying the Consultant Services Manual to consultant procurement, contract development, negotiation, and agreement administration.
• Yes - I have working knowledge of the manual and have applied its requirements to consultant contracting activities.
• Yes - I have reviewed or referenced the manual but have limited experience applying its requirements.
• No - I do not have experience or working knowledge of the manual.

13


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)

14


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