Budget Manager

Salary : $94,260.00 - $114,540.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-0W091
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 08/20/2026
Closing Date: 9/3/2026 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 Budget Manager to support the financial integrity and stewardship of the agency through strategic budgeting and financial management. This position serves as a key resource for complex programs, providing advanced budget expertise that supports informed decision-making and ensures agency resources align with statewide priorities. Working closely with executive leadership, the Office of Financial Management, legislative staff, and other stakeholders, this role helps strengthen the agency's financial accountability and credibility. The successful candidate will also promote collaboration and knowledge sharing within the budget office through technical guidance, training, and mentoring. This position plays an important role in ensuring WSDOT can effectively manage public resources and continue delivering safe, reliable transportation services to the communities of Washington.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Budget Manager will:

• Serve as the Central Budget Office subject-matter expert for complex programs and budget issues.
• Interpret and apply state financial laws, policies, and practices to ensure budget compliance.
• Monitor spending, resolve budget variances, and recommend process or policy improvements.
• Develop and review decision packages, fiscal notes, allotments, financial reports, and budget documents.
• Implement budget strategies aligned with agency, OFM, Governor, and legislative priorities.
• Provide strategic budget guidance to leadership, programs, and external stakeholders.
• Provide budget training, mentoring, outreach, and technical assistance.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and audit-ready financial data and records.

Qualifications

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

• Budget Management and Processes: Demonstrating proficiency in developing, managing, and monitoring large, complex budgets; knowledge of state budget processes to develop, implement, and evaluate financial strategies, efficiencies, and savings that promote responsible resource management and measurable public benefit; ability to promote fiscal accountability and alignment with organizational goals.
• Analytical and Critical Thinking: Ability to apply advanced analytical, statistical, and problem-solving skills to objectively evaluate information, accurately interpret and apply complex laws and legal principles, rules, policies and procedures, identify issues, communicate contrary points of view and support sound decision-making to achieve department objectives.
• Professional and Ethical Conduct: Ability to perform duties thoroughly and properly, learn from mistakes, maintain professional relationships, maintain confidentiality when appropriate, and apply ethical application of knowledge, skills, and behavior to perform tasks at a high standard.
• Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others - proven success in fostering and developing constructive and collaborative organizational-wide relationships, with ability to lead through communication and trust building, seeking and welcoming different perspectives towards shared outcomes.
• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growing - Demonstrated ability to self-reflect, identify personal and professional strengths and growth areas and adapt to new challenges.
• Work independently with attention to detail - strong sense of meticulousness, demonstrating an ability to work independently, thoroughly review and analyze data, detect errors, and ensure all work is accurate, timely, and error-free
• Technology Proficiency: Advanced knowledge and proficiency using technology, financial systems, databases, spreadsheets to analyze data, identify trends, develop reports or dashboards, and present fiscal information. Ability to learn new systems, troubleshoot technology issues, and explain system outputs and requirements to others.
• Organizational and Project Management: Skills to effectively organize, prioritize and manage multiple concurrent assignments, balance competing priorities while delivering accurate, quality and timely work in a fast-paced environment.
• Stakeholder Collaboration and Relationship Management: Advanced skills in building and maintaining trust and constructive working relationships characterized by a high level of acceptance, cooperation, and mutual respect.
• Effective Communication: Advanced skills in effectively communicating complex fiscal information, legal principles and policies to advance our department mission and maintain trust and alignment with the highest levels of state government.

The following qualifications are also required:

• Schedule flexibility and/or additional hours may be required during peak work periods, such as budget development and allotment preparation and legislative session.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Experience working specifically in state government budgeting, for example in a central budget office, or similar.
• Demonstrated competence with statewide financial systems, such as the Agency Financial Reporting System (AFRS), Agency Budget System (ABS), Salary Projection System (SPS), and Fiscal Note System (FNS).
• Experience in communicating with staff of the Legislature and Office of Financial Management (OFM) or similar entities in other jurisdictions.
• Achieve excellent results with little need for oversight.

Important Notes

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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. 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 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-HQ-0W091 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 developing, managing, monitoring, and analyzing large or complex budgets. Include the scope of your responsibility, the types of budgets you managed, and your role in developing or implementing financial strategies, efficiencies, or savings.
02


Describe your experience with state government budgeting or a comparable public-sector budget process. Include your experience with budget development, allotments, fiscal notes, decision packages, legislative processes, or other related budget activities.
03


This position may require schedule flexibility and/or additional hours during peak work periods, including budget development, allotment preparation, and legislative session. Are you able and willing to meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No

04


Which option best describes your proficiency analyzing complex fiscal information and applying laws, rules, policies, and procedures to support financial decision-making?

• I independently analyze highly complex fiscal issues, interpret and apply laws, rules, policies, and procedures, evaluate alternatives, and provide strategic recommendations to executive-level decision-makers.
• I independently analyze complex fiscal information, identify issues and risks, interpret applicable requirements, and recommend appropriate solutions with minimal guidance.
• I analyze fiscal information, apply established requirements, identify routine issues, and develop recommendations with periodic guidance.
• I perform routine fiscal analysis and apply established procedures with regular guidance.
• I have limited experience analyzing fiscal information or applying financial laws, rules, policies, and procedures.

05


Which option best describes your proficiency using financial systems, databases, spreadsheets, and other technology to analyze and communicate fiscal information?

• I independently use advanced financial systems and analytical tools to evaluate complex data, identify trends, develop reports or dashboards, troubleshoot issues, and explain system outputs to others.
• I independently use financial systems, databases, and advanced spreadsheet functions to analyze data, identify trends, and develop fiscal reports with minimal guidance.
• I use financial systems, databases, and spreadsheets to perform routine analysis and reporting with periodic guidance.
• I use basic spreadsheet, database, or financial system functions and require guidance for more complex analysis.
• I have limited experience using financial systems, databases, or spreadsheets for fiscal analysis.

06


Which option best describes your ability to manage multiple concurrent assignments and competing priorities?

• I independently manage multiple complex, high-priority assignments, anticipate changing needs, adjust priorities, and consistently deliver accurate and timely results with little oversight.
• I independently manage multiple assignments and competing deadlines, adjusting priorities as needed with minimal oversight.
• I manage multiple routine assignments and deadlines with periodic guidance when priorities conflict.
• I organize assigned work but require regular guidance to manage competing priorities or deadlines.
• I have limited experience independently managing multiple assignments or competing priorities.

07


Which option best describes your proficiency building and maintaining constructive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders?

• I independently build and maintain trusted relationships with executive leaders, government partners, and diverse stakeholders; navigate differing perspectives and lead collaborative efforts toward shared outcomes.
• I independently develop productive relationships across programs or organizations, address differing perspectives, and facilitate collaborative solutions with minimal guidance.
• I maintain effective working relationships and collaborate with stakeholders to accomplish shared objectives with periodic guidance.
• I participate in collaborative work and maintain professional relationships with regular guidance.
• I have limited experience developing or maintaining stakeholder relationships.

08


Which option best describes your proficiency communicating complex fiscal information, policies, or requirements to varied audiences?

• I independently communicate highly complex or sensitive fiscal information to executives, legislative or government partners, and other stakeholders, adapting the message to support informed decision-making and maintain trust.
• I independently explain complex fiscal information and policies to leadership and diverse stakeholders and effectively respond to questions or differing perspectives.
• I communicate routine fiscal information to technical and non-technical audiences and provide clarification with periodic guidance.
• I communicate basic fiscal or financial information but require guidance for complex or sensitive topics.
• I have limited experience communicating fiscal information to varied audiences.

09


Which option best describes your ability to independently produce accurate, complete, and confidential financial work?

• I independently manage complex or sensitive financial work, thoroughly validate information, identify and resolve discrepancies, protect confidential information, and consistently deliver accurate, audit-ready work with little oversight.
• I independently review and validate financial information, identify and correct errors, maintain confidentiality, and deliver accurate work with minimal oversight.
• I complete and review financial work for accuracy and follow established confidentiality and quality standards with periodic guidance.
• I complete routine financial work but require regular review to identify errors or ensure compliance with established standards.
• I have limited experience independently reviewing financial information for accuracy, completeness, or confidentiality.

10


Which option best describes your experience with Washington State financial systems and state-level budget partners?

• I have independently used multiple statewide financial systems such as AFRS, ABS, SPS, and/or FNS and have directly communicated with OFM and/or legislative staff regarding complex budget or fiscal matters.
• I have independently used one or more statewide financial systems and have experience communicating with OFM, legislative staff, or comparable government entities.
• I have experience using government financial systems and working with internal or external partners on public-sector budget matters.
• I have experience with comparable financial systems or public-sector budgeting but limited exposure to Washington State systems or state-level partners.
• I have no direct experience with statewide financial systems, OFM, legislative staff, or comparable public-sector entities.

11


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)

12


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