Electrical Engineer 4 - Washington State Ferries

Salary : $100,459.00 - $135,122.00 Annually
Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-91016r.2
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Washington State Ferries
Opening Date: 10/19/2026
Closing Date: 11/2/2026 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!

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 an engineering professional with maritime experience to support the electrical systems that keep Washington's ferry fleet operating safely and reliably. Working under the direction of the Chief Naval Architect, this position contributes to vessel modifications, repairs, and new construction that sustain essential ferry service. Maritime experience is critical to developing designs that address vessel operating conditions and meet applicable marine regulatory and electrical standards. Join a team dedicated to strengthening fleet reliability and serving the communities that depend on Washington State Ferries.

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 Electrical Engineer 4 will:

• Apply maritime electrical engineering expertise to design ferry vessel modifications, repairs, and new construction.
• Prepare calculations, specifications, and drawings for vessel power, lighting, communications, and navigation systems, including short-circuit and power analyses.
• Verify vessel-specific compliance with USCG, ABS, IMO/SOLAS, IEEE, and NEC requirements.
• Lead electrical installation design and coordinate engineering support for complex vessel projects.
• Conduct ship checks, verify drawings and calculations, confirm As-Built conditions, and prepare regulatory and stakeholder reports.
• Develop technical and cost information and specifications for equipment, materials, and shipyard installations and removals.
• Review vendor, consultant, contractor, and design work for accuracy and compliance with calculations, specifications, and contract requirements.
• Troubleshoot vessel electrical and electronic systems; provide technical assistance and training to vessel engineering and Eagle Harbor 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-Oriented - Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Growth Mindset - Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
• Experience in shipyard or consulting Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering Design Office dealing with shipboard electrical systems.
• Registered as a Professional Engineer in electrical engineering in Washington State, or registration in another state with the ability to obtain Washington State licensure within six months of appointment.
• Ability to apply first-principles engineering methods to perform calculations and technical analyses in support of vessel systems and equipment.
• Ability to critically interpret and verify engineering drawings and technical specifications, and to develop accurate, well-structured reports and documentation in support of vessel equipment modification, correction, and installation.
• Ability to demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to follow complex technical direction and effectively coordinate with team members, contractors, and fleet personnel.
• Experience with the analysis and design of electrical & electronic systems used in marine applications.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Experience working in a marine environment. Knowledge of public sector rules and regulations.
• Experience learning and using specialty software such as SKM, Rhino3d, Ship Constructor, etc.
• Ability to understand and apply detailed instructions and scheduling requirements to plan and execute work, manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and perform assignments independently.

Important Notes

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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 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 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

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-91016r.2 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


Describe your experience working with shipboard electrical systems in a shipyard or consulting Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering Design Office. Identify the vessel types, electrical systems, projects, and engineering responsibilities involved.
02


Which statement describes your current Professional Engineer registration in electrical engineering?

• I hold a current Washington State Professional Engineer registration in electrical engineering.
• I hold a current Professional Engineer registration in electrical engineering in another state and can obtain Washington State licensure within six months of appointment.
• I hold a current Professional Engineer registration in electrical engineering in another state but am unsure whether I can obtain Washington State licensure within six months of appointment.
• I hold a current Professional Engineer registration in electrical engineering in another state but cannot obtain Washington State licensure within six months of appointment.
• I do not hold a current Professional Engineer registration in electrical engineering.

03


Which statement best describes your marine electrical and electronic systems experience? Select the highest level for which you meet all elements.

• Led analysis and design of shipboard electrical and electronic systems, reviewed others' engineering work, and resolved technical design issues.
• Independently performed analysis and design of shipboard electrical and electronic systems.
• Performed analysis and design of shipboard electrical and electronic systems with technical guidance and review.
• Assisted with marine electrical or electronic system calculations, drawings, or design tasks under direct supervision.
• Have not performed analysis or design work involving marine electrical or electronic systems.

04


Which statement best describes your experience applying first-principles engineering methods?

• Independently developed calculations and technical analyses for vessel systems or equipment and verified the methods, assumptions, and results of others.
• Independently selected and applied first-principles methods to calculate and analyze vessel system or equipment performance.
• Applied established engineering methods to vessel calculations and analyses with technical guidance.
• Completed first-principles calculations in coursework, training, or supervised assignments but have not applied them to vessel systems.
• Have not applied first-principles engineering methods.

05


Which statement best describes your experience with vessel engineering documentation?

• Independently verified drawings and specifications, resolved technical discrepancies, and reviewed reports or documentation prepared by others.
• Independently interpreted and verified drawings and specifications and prepared supporting technical reports or documentation.
• Reviewed drawings and specifications and prepared supporting documentation with technical guidance.
• Assisted with drawing reviews or documentation updates under direct supervision.
• Have not worked with vessel engineering drawings, specifications, or technical documentation.

06


Which statement best describes your experience communicating and coordinating maritime engineering work?

• Led technical coordination among engineering teams, contractors, and fleet personnel, clarified complex direction, and resolved technical communication issues.
• Independently followed complex technical direction and coordinated engineering information through written documents and verbal discussions with team members, contractors, or fleet personnel.
• Prepared technical communications and participated in coordination activities with guidance.
• Relayed technical information or followed task-specific instructions under direct supervision.
• Have not participated in technical engineering communication or coordination.

07


Which statement best describes your experience contributing to respect and equal opportunity in a work environment?

• Led implementation of work practices that supported respectful conduct and equal access to participation, information, or development opportunities.
• Independently identified and addressed barriers to respectful participation or equal opportunity through appropriate workplace actions.
• Contributed to team efforts or work practices supporting respectful participation and equal opportunity.
• Followed workplace expectations for respectful conduct and equal opportunity but have not participated in related improvement efforts.
• Have no work-related experience demonstrating this competency.

08


Which statement best describes your experience using specialty engineering software?

• Independently used specialty software for marine engineering assignments, verified outputs, and guided others in its use.
• Independently used specialty software to complete engineering assignments and check outputs.
• Used specialty software for assigned engineering tasks with occasional assistance.
• Completed introductory training or supervised practice but have not used specialty software independently.
• Have not used specialty engineering software.

09


Which statement best describes your knowledge of public sector rules and regulations?

• Interpreted and applied public sector rules and regulations to engineering assignments and advised others on their application.
• Independently applied public sector rules and regulations to assigned work.
• Applied public sector rules and regulations with guidance.
• Gained knowledge through education or training but have not applied it in work assignments.
• Have no related knowledge or applied experience.

10


Which statement best describes your experience planning and executing engineering assignments?

• Independently planned concurrent assignments, resolved competing priorities and scheduling conflicts, and adjusted work plans to meet deadlines.
• Independently planned and completed assignments using detailed instructions and scheduling requirements, seeking clarification when needed.
• Planned and completed assignments with periodic guidance on priorities or scheduling.
• Completed assigned tasks using schedules and priorities established by others, with regular direction.
• Have not planned or scheduled engineering assignments.

11


Are you currently employed by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)?

• Yes
• No

12


| 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)

13


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