• Job Description

  Req#: 5308323
  Salary : $42,972.00 - $93,804.00 Annually
  Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-01868
  Department: Dept. of Transportation
  Division: Headquarters
  Opening Date: 04/14/2026
  Closing Date: 4/29/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
  
  Description
  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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
  The Opportunity
  
  WSDOT is seeking a self-motivated Audit Professional to work in the Internal Audit Office in Olympia, WA. The Internal Audit staff gains extensive exposure to diverse aspects of WSDOT's business. These audit assignments include increasing levels of responsibility and presentations to senior management, making Internal Audit an excellent place to work for high-potential employees. The Audit Specialist position is responsible for performing risk-based audits of Department activity and advisory services to management. This position brings an independent and objective approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control, internal governance processes and adherence to laws, rules and regulations. This is an excellent opportunity both to grow as an audit professional and to make a valuable contribution to WSDOT and the public. If you prove to be one of the successful candidates, you will be a part of a supportive team rewarded by their efforts to make a difference. Ideal candidates for this position have a strong work ethic and are dedicated to continuous learning and professional growth as audit professionals.
  What to Expect
  
  Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Audit Specialist will:
  
  
  • Design risk-based audit plans and advisory engagement plans, focusing on high-priority areas for assurance and consulting engagements.
  • Develop audit work programs that define the scope, objectives, and procedures.
  • Conduct audit and advisory engagements by obtaining and interpreting complex information and ensure conformance with Global Internal Audit Standards.
  • Consult with senior management on audits, compliance, and appropriate criteria.
  • Review financial and administrative records, systems, and internal controls to assess compliance.
  • Conduct interviews and discussions with auditees to gather insights for audits.
  • Prepare legible and logical working papers, correspondence and draft and final audit reports, ensuring clear communication of findings and actionable recommendations.
  • Lead entrance and exit conferences, communicating audit objectives and findings effectively.
  • Mentor and guide other Audit Specialists.
  • Advise and review workpapers and audit drafts for accuracy and completeness.
  • Travel independently to fieldwork sites to conduct on-site audit work.
  
  Qualifications
  
  This is an Audit Specialist - DOT 4 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.
  To be considered for this opportunity at the highest level, the following competencies are required:
  
  Advanced Risk-Based Audit Planning and Engagement Leadership
  
  
  • Experience designing, planning, and leading complex risk-based assurance and consulting engagements that evaluate governance, risk management, internal controls, and program performance.
  • Skills to develop engagement scopes, objectives, and methodologies; conduct risk assessments and preliminary surveys; and ensure adherence to professional auditing standards throughout the engagement lifecycle.
  
  
  Advanced Internal Control and Governance Evaluation
  
  
  • Skills to evaluate organizational governance structures, internal control systems, and risk management processes to determine adequacy, effectiveness, and compliance with applicable requirements.
  • Skills to identify control deficiencies, systemic risks, and operational vulnerabilities and provide actionable recommendations for improvement.
  
  
  Advanced Financial and Operational Analysis
  
  
  • Skills to analyze complex financial, administrative, and operational information to assess compliance, accountability, efficiency, and effectiveness.
  • Skills to review financial records, business processes, and information systems; identifies trends, risks, and anomalies; and apply analytical tools and audit technologies to support conclusions.
  
  
  Audit Reporting and Technical Documentation
  
  
  • Experience preparing clear, logical, and standards-compliant audit workpapers, correspondence, and reports.
  • Experience developing well-supported findings and recommendations; ensuring documentation meets professional auditing standards; and communicating technical information in an accessible and defensible manner.
  
  
  Advanced Executive Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement
  
  
  • Ability to provide expert consultation and guidance to executive leadership, management, and staff on audit results, internal controls, governance practices, and compliance requirements.
  • Skills to lead entrance and exit conferences; facilitate discussions; and maintain collaborative professional relationships with stakeholders.
  
  
  Advanced Audit Leadership and Technical Mentorship
  
  
  • Skills to serve as a technical lead or Auditor-in-Charge on complex engagements.
  • Sills to provide mentoring, coaching, and technical guidance to audit staff; reviews workpapers and reports; and ensures consistency, quality, and adherence to professional standards and established audit methodologies.
  
  
  Advanced Professional Auditing Standards Application
  
  
  • Experience applying Global Internal Audit Standards and applicable federal, state, and agency requirements throughout audit and advisory work.
  • Skills to maintain independence, objectivity, and professional judgment while ensuring audit integrity and methodological consistency.
  
  
  Advanced Ethics and Regulatory Interpretation
  
  
  • Experience researching, interpreting, and applying applicable ethics laws and regulatory requirements.
  • Skills to provide clear guidance to management and staff; develop written communications regarding ethics inquiries; and coordinate with oversight bodies and stakeholders on complex compliance issues.
  
  
  Training and Knowledge Transfer
  
  
  • Skills to design, develop, and deliver technical training and professional development activities.
  • Skills to create instructional materials; support onboarding and staff development; evaluate training effectiveness; and promote continuous learning within the audit function.
  
  
  Advanced Professional Judgment and Independent Decision-Making
  
  
  • Experience exercising sound professional judgment in evaluating risk, interpreting standards, and forming audit conclusions.
  • Experience making independent determinations on complex issues; manages sensitive or high-risk assignments; and maintains objectivity and confidentiality.
  
  
  Advanced Communication and Facilitation
  
  
  • Skills to communicate complex and technical information clearly in written and verbal formats.
  • Skills to conduct interviews, facilitate meetings and presentations, and prepare professional communications tailored to diverse audiences.
  
  
  Advanced Work Management
  
  
  • Experience managing multiple complex engagements simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining quality standards.
  • Ability to adjust priorities based on emerging risks or management requests and maintain productivity in varied work environments.
  
  
  Growth Mindset and Service-Oriented
  
  
  • Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth and takes action to meet the needs of others.
  
  The following qualifications are also required:
  
  
  • A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
  • Ability to travel and transport necessary equipment efficiently, including to remote locations.
  
  It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
  
  
  • Government Auditing and Public Sector Compliance: Ability to apply knowledge of government auditing practices, public sector accounting principles, and federal and state regulatory frameworks when evaluating programs, grants, and public agency operations.
  • Team Coordination and Informal Leadership: Skills to support coordination of audit team activities, promote collaboration, and assist with onboarding and development of new staff while contributing to a positive and productive team environment.
  • Advanced Audit Evidence and Documentation Techniques: Skills to utilize structured and defensible methods for collecting, validating, and documenting audit evidence. Ability to apply data analysis techniques and maintain organized electronic documentation systems that support audit conclusions.
  
  Important Notes
  
  
  • This is an Audit Specialist - DOT 4 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. The base salaries for each level are:
    • Audit Specialist - DOT 4: $69,744 - $93,804
    • Audit Specialist - DOT 3: $61,644 - $82,872
    • Audit Specialist - DOT 2: $51,840 - $69,744
    • Audit Specialist - DOT 1: $42,972 - $57,252
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • Travel is an expectation of the position and may be required on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis. Travel to all areas of Washington State, and at times, out of state, remain in the vicinity of audit or conference location for up to five consecutive days or longer.
  • 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in 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 for more information.
  
  Check out this video to learn more:
  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 . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-01868 in the subject line.
  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 (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 (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 , 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
  
  Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  Leave Without Pay
  
  Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
  
  Updated 01-07-2026
  01
  
  Please briefly describe your most recent audit and compliance role and responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
  02
  
  Have you served as Auditor-in-Charge or engagement lead on audits?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  03
  
  Advanced Risk-Based Audit Planning and Engagement Leadership: Please select the response that best describes your experience leading risk-based audit or consulting engagements.
  • Leads complex, high-risk engagements end-to-end, including risk assessment, scope development, methodology design, execution, and reporting across multiple programs.
  • Independently leads audits or engagements of moderate complexity, including planning and execution.
  • Participates in audit planning and execution under direction.
  • No experience.
  
  04
  
  Advanced Internal Control and Governance Evaluation: Please select the response that best describes your experience evaluating internal controls and governance processes.
  • Evaluates complex governance structures and control environments, identifying systemic risks and recommending improvements.
  • Assesses internal controls and identifies gaps within audits.
  • Assists in control testing and documentation.
  • No experience.
  
  05
  
  Advanced Financial and Operational Analysis: Please select the response that best describes your experience analyzing financial and operational data.
  • Performs complex analysis across systems and datasets to identify trends, anomalies, and risks impacting programs.
  • Conducts financial and operational analysis to support audit findings.
  • Reviews data with guidance.
  • No experience.
  
  06
  
  Please select the response that best describes your use of audit analytics or data tools.
  • Applies advanced data analytics and audit technologies to support conclusions and improve audit quality.
  • Uses standard tools (e.g., spreadsheets, queries) for analysis.
  • Limited use of data tools.
  • No experience.
  
  07
  
  Audit Reporting and Technical Documentation: Please select the response that best describes your experience preparing audit reports and workpapers.
  • Develops comprehensive, standards-compliant reports and documentation that clearly support findings and withstand scrutiny.
  • Prepares audit reports and workpapers with limited revisions required.
  • Assists in drafting reports and documentation.
  • No experience.
  
  08
  
  Have you prepared audit documentation in accordance with professional auditing standards?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  09
  
  Please select the response that best describes your experience facilitating meetings such as entrance and exit conferences.
  • Leads complex or sensitive meetings with senior stakeholders and drives alignment on outcomes.
  • Facilitates standard audit meetings.
  • Participates in meetings with limited facilitation role.
  • No experience.
  
  10
  
  Advanced Audit Leadership and Technical Mentorship: Please select the response that best describes your experience mentoring or leading audit staff.
  • Provides ongoing mentorship, technical review, and quality assurance across multiple staff or engagements.
  • Provides guidance and review for assigned staff or team members.
  • Occasionally supports peers.
  • No experience.
  
  11
  
  Advanced Professional Auditing Standards Application: Please select the response that best describes your experience applying professional auditing standards.
  • Applies Global Internal Audit Standards (or equivalent) across all phases of audits and ensures team compliance.
  • Applies auditing standards in assigned work.
  • Familiar with standards but applies with guidance.
  • No experience.
  
  12
  
  Advanced Ethics and Regulatory Interpretation: Please select the response that best describes your experience interpreting ethics laws and regulatory requirements.
  • Provides authoritative interpretation and guidance on complex ethics and regulatory issues.
  • Applies and interprets regulations within audits.
  • Assists with research and interpretation.
  • No experience.
  
  13
  
  Have you provided written guidance or responses to ethics or compliance inquiries?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  14
  
  Please select the response that best describes your experience with government auditing and public sector compliance.
  • Applies government auditing practices and public sector regulations across complex programs and audits.
  • Has experience with public sector audits or compliance.
  • Limited exposure.
  • No experience.
  
  15
  
  Please select the response that best describes your experience coordinating audit team activities.
  • Regularly coordinates team efforts, supports onboarding, and promotes collaboration.
  • Assists with team coordination.
  • Participates as a team member.
  • No experience.
  
  16
  
  Please select the response that best describes your experience with audit evidence and documentation techniques.
  • Applies advanced, structured methods for collecting, validating, and documenting evidence, including data analysis.
  • Uses established methods to document audit work.
  • Assists with documentation.
  • No experience.
  
  17
  
  Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  18
  
  Are you able to travel and transport necessary equipment, including to remote locations?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  19
  
  How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • COMTO
  • APWA
  • "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
  • Radio advertisement
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
  
  20
  
  If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
  Required Question

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