Transportation Planning Specialist 3 – Public Transportation Division

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!

The Opportunity
WSDOT’s Public Transportation Division (PTD) is seeking to fill a Transportation Planning Specialist 3 (TPS3) vacancy located in Olympia, WA. This position is responsible for conducting financial site visits and interacting directly with the different subrecipients across the state. Compliance with federal and state requirements is an important element for which this position is responsible for, this includes review of complex projects and financial records and policies related to procurement, civil rights, and others. This position works to ensure that reports are submitted timely to FTA and all reporting requirements are met. The TPS3 will perform project programming activities for authorization of funds and development of spending plans across PTD, lead contracting activities for preparation, review, negotiation, approval, amendment, termination, and close out of all operating, capital equipment, and construction standard contract templates (boilerplates) and agreements with PTD. This position plays a key role in delivering public transportation projects and is responsible for reporting the status of programming and authorization aspects of operating, capital equipment, and construction projects.

What to Expect
This position works extensively with representatives of transit agencies, local government, tribal nations, state-government agencies, special-purpose districts, and private nonprofits; and must develop and maintain strong working relationships with customers and stakeholders.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Planning Specialist 3 will:

• Serve as the point of contact for subrecipients providing financial and technical assistance, and leading efforts to stay compliant.
• Ensure that obligated/appropriated funds are programmed in the Grants Management System (GMS) and reflected in contracts and amendments as applicable for each project.
• Program projects/ awards in the Grants Management System (GMS) and ensure that all related information and documentation is stored as appropriate within the system.
• Serve as an expert on contracting related activities through different stages of the process including initial preparation, review, negotiation, and execution; and resolve issues that arise during the contracts process.
• Review federal master agreement and summary of changes annually and document changes in circulars and laws.
• Develop full documentation of findings and work with subrecipients to address deficiencies and oversee federal grant-related required audit reports.
• Serve as an expert on programming and financial activities and processes such as authorization of expenditures, available balances, payroll, grant awards, allotment variances, and others throughout PTD.
• Oversee federal grant-related required audit reports.
• Coordinate with PTD staff and provide necessary information when discussing planning and system performance with subrecipients.

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

• Transportation Planning Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge of public transportation, including planning, financial, programming of projects, inventory procurement management, compliance, and oversight efforts. Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate transportation programs, or policies.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrated capacity to analyze complex transportation issues, identify root causes, evaluate alternatives, and recommend data-driven solutions to support planning and policy decisions.
• Compliance and Technical Competence: Ability to interpret data relevant to Public Transportation, conduct site visits, and provide technical assistance to grantees. Perform an oversight role to ensure compliance and achieve operational efficiency.
• Policy and Program Evaluation: Experience in evaluating Public Transportation policies, programs, or projects for effectiveness, efficiency, and alignment with strategic goals or regulatory frameworks. Experience in understanding state and federal regulations and requirements when reviewing and reporting on the different public transportation grant programs.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration: Skilled in working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including the public, government agencies, and private sector partners, to gather input and build consensus around transportation initiatives.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage or contribute to transportation-related projects or programs. Ability to develop contracts and amendments, run reports, and provide updated status on contracts and agreements.
• Economic and Business Understanding: Economic principles and business processes as they relate to transportation planning, funding, and investment decision-making.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Public transportation: General knowledge of public transportation performance, governance, policy, funding, planning, transit operations, special needs transportation, transportation demand management, transportation planning, legislative relations, local government relations, and system-wide multimodal transportation analysis.
• Analysis and interpretation: Interprets complex technical information and communicates verbally and in writing in a simple and easy-to-understand manner to diverse audiences. Provides analysis of techniques and selection of the most appropriate solution, taking into account goals, potential payback, resource requirements, and possible drawbacks. Evaluates and assesses issues, interprets laws and regulations, and communicates findings verbally and in writing to others.
• Accountability: Meets commitments, works independently, accepts accountability, handles change, sets personal standards, stays focused under pressure, and meets attendance/punctuality requirements. Works independently with little supervision.
• Customer service: Addresses customer questions and complaints, communicates with customers, handles service problems politely and efficiently, is always available for customers, follows procedures to solve customer problems, understands company products and services, maintains pleasant and professional image. Provides updated status on procurement and works with DES to maintain a summary of purchase orders placed by customers using the statewide procurement contracts.
• Teamwork: Meets all team deadlines and responsibilities, listens to others and values opinions, helps team leader to meet goals, welcomes newcomers, and promotes a team atmosphere. Fosters and maintains excellent working relationships, even in times of stress and conflict. Works closely with peers on interdisciplinary teams and jointly meet deliverables. Works toward consensus and influences peers and colleagues with or without direct authority. Leads and/or participates in teams to generate and implement workable and useful solutions to difficult problems.
• Communication: Communicates well both verbally and in writing, creates accurate and punctual reports, delivers presentations, shares information and ideas with others, and has good listening skills. Can apply negotiation and conflict- resolution skills. Communicates effectively with interdisciplinary teams as a subject matter expert and shares accurate and pertinent information in a timely manner. Communicates complex policy, project, and technical information effectively using verbal, written, and visual communication skills. Adapts communication style to various audiences.
• Organizational skills: Operates within the organization's formal and informal structures, builds allies and relationships across departments, uses allies to build consensus and create results, is appropriately diplomatic, understands others' roles and perspectives, and supports projects and ideas across the organization. Builds positive working relationships with federal, state, and local agencies; policymakers and advocacy groups; consultants and contractors; colleagues; and others.
• Computer skills: Skilled in the use of computers, adapts to new technology, keeps abreast of changes, learns new programs quickly, and uses computers to improve productivity. Advanced skills in Microsoft Office products to create documents, reports, spreadsheets, organization charts, and presentations.
• Extensive knowledge of public transportation to support planning, financial, procurement, compliance and oversight efforts.

*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• Occasional in-state travel may be necessary to attend and/or support meetings and conferences.
• 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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 mayearn 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 Daisha.Jordan@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-05234 in the subject line.

Salary

• $71,472 - $96,144/year

Benefits

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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 07-21-2025