Bridge Engineer 6 (In-Training) – Washington State Ferries

Bridge Engineer 6 (In-Training) - Washington State Ferries

About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence. The agency plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods. WSDOT maintains over 18,000 lane miles of state highway, 4,100 bridges, the world’s longest floating bridge, an award‑winning Active Transportation Plan, a record for the widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation. The Washington State Ferry (WSF) system links communities on both sides of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands, operating more than 400 sailings daily on 10 routes and transporting nearly 17 million passengers a year.

Opportunity

WSF seeks a Bridge Engineer 6 (In‑Training) to evaluate, design, and ensure the integrity of terminal structures, including bridges and buildings, within the Terminal Engineering Structural Section. This role plays a critical part in maintaining the safety, reliability, and longevity of terminal infrastructure to support ferry service.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead structural engineer on complex WSF projects.
• Design and develop fixed and movable bridges, trestles, berthing structures (e.g., dolphins and wingwalls), pedestrian facilities, and buildings.
• Conduct detailed structural analyses including seismic vulnerability assessments.
• Develop and maintain design analysis documents, hand calculations, and spreadsheet‑based worksheets.
• Prepare detailed structural design drawings using CADD software and coordinate with the CADD team.
• Collaborate with terminal project team members to integrate structural designs into broader project plans, address design issues, coordinate schedules, and participate in peer reviews.
• Provide technical leadership and oversight in one or more specialized structural safety programs, including Load Rating, Commercial Overweight Truck Movement, Bridge Scour, and Seismic & Tsunami Retrofit.
• Develop, maintain, and manage the official WSF bridge and structure load restriction list.
• Prepare comprehensive cost estimates for structural components and overall project delivery, supporting budgeting and funding processes.

Qualifications

Educational or Equivalent Professional Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering OR 10+ years of progressive structural engineering responsibility under a licensed engineer. Washington State PE (Civil) for BE4; Washington State SE (Structural) for BE6. Valid WA driver’s license.

Progressive Structural Design Experience: Minimum 12 months at each step (BE4 ? BE5 ? BE6) with increasing responsibility in marine/bridge structural design, including pile/drilled shaft supported structures and full PS&E package preparation.

Plans, Specifications & Estimates (PS&E): Ability to independently produce complete structural PS&E packages for bridges, trestles, or marine structures.

Structural Analysis & Load Modeling: Proficiency with finite element analysis, live load, seismic, and foundation design per AASHTO LRFD, ASCE/SEI 7, and IBC.

Codes & Standards Application: Knowledge and use of WSDOT Bridge Design Manual, WSF Terminal Design Manual, Standard Specifications, Special Provisions, and related structural codes.

CADD & Engineering Software: Competence in CADD (e.g., MicroStation) and structural design software for modeling and detailing.

Construction Support & Field Experience: Experience reviewing submittals, providing design support during construction, and resolving field issues for bridges/marine structures.

Project Planning & Delivery: Ability to scope, schedule, and manage structural design deliverables; coordinate with multi‑disciplinary teams.

Technical Leadership & Mentorship: Demonstrated ability to guide and mentor less experienced engineers in structural design principles and project execution.

Communication & Documentation: Clear written and verbal communication; ability to document design decisions, prepare reports, and collaborate with contractors and internal stakeholders.

Valid Driver’s License: Holds current & valid Washington State driver’s license for field visits.

Application Instructions

• Upload a Resume outlining experience in reverse chronological order.
• Submit a Cover Letter explaining qualifications and why you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Provide an example of Structural Calculations and/or Structural Drawings developed by you.
• Enter contact details for at least three references who can attest to your technical skills and job‑related competencies.

Equal‑Opportunity Employer

WSDOT is an equal‑opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity, are encouraged to apply.

For inquiries: contact Renee Mason, renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Reference: 25DOT‑WSF‑91004mr.1 in the subject line.

Salary: USD 72000 - 108000 per year