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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, 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 the WSDOT, is currently seeking a motivated engineering intern to support the Terminal Engineering Project Management and Civil Engineering program. This paid internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience contributing to critical ferry terminal infrastructure projects that support safe, reliable transportation for the traveling public. Working alongside experienced engineers and project managers, the intern will assist in advancing project delivery while gaining exposure to real-world public sector engineering practices. This role plays an important part in supporting efficient operations by providing technical assistance that enables project teams to focus on high-priority engineering work. It also reflects WSF’s commitment to workforce development by mentoring the next generation of transportation professionals.

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 Transportation Engineer Intern will:

• Assist with plan review, quantity take-offs, and preparation of drawings, reports, and project documentation.
• Review as-built records and historical documentation to support project scoping and design verification.
• Organize and maintain project files in accordance with agency standards.
• Support project scheduling, milestone tracking, and cost tracking using project management tools.
• Prepare status reports, meeting materials, and track action items with follow-up communications.
• Participate in site visits and assist with site investigations at ferry terminals and construction locations.
• Document field conditions and compile data into reports or summary memoranda.
• Utilize design, scheduling, and agency systems to support project tracking and documentation standards.
• 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:

• Foundational Engineering Knowledge
  Demonstrates foundational knowledge in electrical, mechanical, or civil engineering principles through relevant academic coursework or training.
• Equity & Inclusion in the Workplace
  Demonstrates experience contributing to a respectful, inclusive work environment and collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Technical Plan & Specification Interpretation
  Ability to read, interpret, and apply contract plans, drawings, and technical specifications to support project work.
• Project Scheduling & Coordination
  Demonstrates understanding of project scheduling concepts, including tracking milestones and supporting schedule updates.
• Time Management & Organization
  Effectively manages assignments, prioritizes tasks, and meets deadlines based on established timelines and instructions.
• Teamwork & Collaboration
  Works effectively both independently and as part of a team to achieve shared goals in a professional setting.
• Adaptability & Flexibility
  Adjusts to changing priorities, project needs, and work environments while maintaining productivity.
• Analytical Thinking & Problem Solving
  I apply critical thinking to identify issues and develop solutions within established policies and procedures.
• Attention to Detail & Quality Assurance
  Reviews documents and deliverables for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with standards.
• Written Communication
  Prepares clear, professional reports, correspondence, and project-related documentation.
• Continuous Learning & Growth Mindset
  Demonstrates initiative in learning new skills, tools, and processes to support professional development.
• Service Orientation
  Takes initiative to support team needs and contribute to effective project and customer service outcomes.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Site Civil Design & Construction Knowledge
  Demonstrates knowledge of site civil design, construction management, or project scheduling principles through coursework or applied experience.
• Engineering Software Proficiency
  Experience using engineering and project management tools such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, MS Project, or similar software.
• Applied Engineering Experience
  Demonstrates practical experience through internships or engineering-related work supporting project delivery or technical tasks.

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 Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28of 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 www.uscis.gov

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 State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

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 www.uscis.gov

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-90946im in the subject line.