Accounting & Financial Services Director (WMS4)

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 is currently seeking an Accounting & Financial Services (AFS) Director who will play a pivotal role in providing statewide financial services to both internal and external customers of WSDOT. As the expert resource for accounting leadership and direction, the AFS Division supports the WSDOT mission by delivering critical statewide accounting services. This includes the development and implementation of statewide policy, management of financial systems and data repositories, financial reporting, and interactions with state and federal regulators. The AFS Division also provides comprehensive accounting services such as payroll, vendor/contractor payments, grant management, project management, and financial statement preparation. The selected candidate will be responsible for setting the direction and policy for all financial transactions and internal controls, ensuring agency accountability and public trust. They will oversee various functional areas, including cash receipting, payroll, vendor payments, construction contract administration, procurement, and materials management. This role involves leading an organization with seven different sections and over 85 staff members, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of financial services while complying with statutory, regulatory, and state/federal policies. The Accounting & Financial Services Director will also evaluate and implement systems and processes to support departmental financial activities and provide accurate information for data-driven decision-making in support of WSDOT program delivery.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the AFS Director will:

• Lead and manage an organization with over 85 financial, procurement, materials management, and IT professionals within seven teams in AFS.
• Develop and implement complex agency-wide financial policies to strengthen financial accountability.
• Lead and direct enterprise-wide accounting and internal controls across regions and divisions.
• Develop, implement and monitor agency financial systems for reporting transactions and financial status to various stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with state/federal laws, accounting principles, and regulations.
• Represent the agency on statewide committees and engage with national accounting standards boards.
• Prepare financial statements for toll facilities and oversee agency-wide payroll, procurement, and materials management activities.
• Report on financial operations and the agency's financial position to the Office of Financial Management (OFM) and the public.
• Consult with management and staff on financial topics, approve waiver requests, and serve as the Internal Control Officer.

Qualifications

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

• Leadership and Strategic Oversight: Experience in setting financial policy direction, evaluating process improvements, and ensuring alignment with strategic organizational objectives. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex accounting functions, including staff supervision, operational planning, and resource management. Skilled in fostering collaborative, result-driven teams within fast-paced or regulated environments.
• Government and Organizational Financial Management: In-depth knowledge of governmental or complex business financial structures, including fund accounting, budgeting, and compliance requirements. Proven ability to manage accounting operations in a regulatory environment with multiple funding sources, appropriations, or program-specific requirements. Experience ensuring compliance with federal, state, and agency-specific financial policies and regulations.
• Risk Mitigation: Experience in developing internal control policies and assessing their effectiveness through audit findings or performance reviews. Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and monitor robust internal control systems to safeguard assets, ensure data accuracy, and support audit readiness. Skilled in identifying financial risks and developing mitigation strategies to ensure compliance, transparency, and accountability.
• Accounting and Financial Reporting Expertise: Extensive financial and governmental accounting and asset management experience. Demonstrated proficiency in applying advanced accounting principles and practices to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting. Ability to prepare, analyze, and interpret complex financial statements in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
• Financial Systems Implementation and Administration: Proficiency in leading or contributing to the design, development, and administration of enterprise financial systems and workflows.Ability to analyze business needs and translate them into system functionalities or enhancements that support operational efficiency.Skilled in collaborating with IT and program staff to align financial systems with agency goals and compliance requirements.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Licensed Certified Public Accountant OR master’s degree (i.e., Master of Business Administration or Accounting).
• Experience working for a financial organization supporting a federal/state/local transportation agency.
• Experience with:
  • Washington State financial systems (i.e., TRAINS, AFRS, Workday)
  • WSDOT funding sources and federal grant management requirements
  • Procurement and/or contract management
  • Materials management

Important Notes

• The salary range listed includes the 3% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2025.
• 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 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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, 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• 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. NOTE: This information may 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.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-0W058 in the subject line.

Salary

• $132,660 - $170,076/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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022