Contracts Specialist 1 | State Construction Office

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 has an opportunity for a skilled and detail-oriented Contracts Specialist to join our Contract Ad & Award Office in Olympia, WA. As part of the State Construction Office, this position will play a vital role in supporting the procurement and administration of state and federally funded Highway Construction, Ferry Terminal, and facility projects statewide. This position is one of five positions in the Contract Ad & Award Office that will provide first level statewide support regarding the advertising and awards of up to 250 contracts annually. A strong candidate will bring exceptional organizational skills, sound judgment, and a comprehensive understanding of contracting processes.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Contracts Specialist will:

• Develop bid lettings in computer system; create contract documents, proposals, update the eligible bidder list; verify wet or electronic signatures and review and download bids.
• Create and proof proposals, addenda, bid opening documents, bid status reports, letters, bid tabulations and other documents and reports; determine the need for and prepare contract documents, prepare correspondence concerning contract advertising.
• Provide transportation construction project procurement support Headquarters, Region personnel and contractors.
• Create and maintain reports, web pages, web resources and documents to provide advertisement and award status of projects.
• Represent the department to the public, answer written and telephone questions from the public, contracting community, and WSDOT staff regarding contract procurement policy.
• Refer contractor questions to WSDOT Project Engineers and review and post responses on the web; write, review, and edit letters and electronic message on behalf of the State Construction Engineer regarding bid acceptance or rejection awards, and other procurement related matters.
• Conduct WSDOT’s weekly public bid opening and read bids aloud and determine apparent low, second and third bidders; conduct a bid check by reviewing bid prices, extensions, and amounts for mathematical accuracy.
• Create, maintain and archive paper and electronic files.

Qualifications

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

• Public Works Contracting Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of public works contracting principles, practices, and procedures, including contract advertisement, competitive bidding, bid evaluation, and award processes. Ability to interpret and apply state and federal regulations governing public procurement and construction contracts. Familiarity with contract terms, specifications, and legal requirements to support accurate and compliant contract administration.
• Communication and Public Engagement: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively engage with diverse internal and external stakeholders, including contractors, project teams, and agency leadership. Ability to present information clearly and confidently in public meetings, project briefings, and collaborative settings. Skilled in writing and reviewing correspondence, reports, and documentation with clarity, accuracy, and professionalism.
• Analytical and Critical Thinking: Ability to evaluate and validate contract proposals, plans, and specifications to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance. Skilled in analyzing data from various sources (e.g., bid documents, department databases) to inform decisions and identify trends or inconsistencies. Proficient in assessing risks and identifying issues within contract documentation, bid submissions, or procurement procedures.
• Time Management and Organizational Skills: Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple competing tasks within tight deadlines and under minimal supervision. Skilled in organizing workload to ensure timely completion of contract milestones such as advertisement, bid opening, and award. Adaptable and capable of managing frequent changes in priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to contribute to and support an inclusive, respectful team environment by sharing ideas, accepting feedback, and collaborating on shared goals. Demonstrated commitment to clear communication, mutual support, and continuous improvement within a collaborative team setting. Skilled in following supervisory direction and aligning individual work with broader office priorities.
• Confidentiality and Professionalism: Proven ability to maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive bid information, financial data, and proprietary documents. Demonstrates a high level of integrity, professionalism, and discretion in the handling of all contract-related matters. An understanding of and ability to uphold ethical standards in procurement and public service.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Knowledge of WSDOT plans, specifications, and contract administration procedures.
• Knowledge of state and federal competitive bid statutes, administrative codes and regulations for public works contracts, and state procurement regulations and rules.
• Knowledge of WSDOT’s contract advertisement and award procedures.
• Knowledge of WSDOT's prequalification process.
• Ability to learn and operate accounting systems and enterprise reporting applications.
• Knowledge of website development.

Important Notes

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options; mandatory in-person attendance at the Ad & Award office once per week or as needed will be required to accomplish specific task assignments.
• The salary range listed includes the 3% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2025.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• 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.
• 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.
• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees 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 of 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-05151 in the subject line.

Salary

• $50,592 - $67,992/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