• Job Description

  Req#: 5357024
  Salary : $82,857.00 - $111,409.00 Annually
  Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-90891n
  Department: Dept. of Transportation
  Division: Washington State Ferries
  Opening Date: 05/27/2026
  Closing Date: 6/10/2026 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!
  
  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 WSDOT, is currently seeking an Environmental Permitting and Approvals Specialist (EPAS) to support environmentally responsible project delivery across the Washington State Ferries system, with a primary focus on the Ferry System Electrification Program. This position plays a critical role in helping WSF advance safe, reliable, and sustainable ferry operations by leading environmental permitting and regulatory coordination efforts for complex infrastructure and maintenance projects. Working closely with project teams, regulatory agencies, tribes, and community partners, the EPAS helps ensure projects move forward in compliance with environmental requirements while supporting WSF's long-term operational and sustainability goals. This role directly contributes to WSF's mission of providing dependable public transportation service while protecting Washington's natural resources and strengthening the future of the state ferry system.
  
  As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system - guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow, and 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 Environmental Permitting and Approvals Specialist will:
  
  • Lead environmental permitting and approvals for Ferry System Electrification Program projects, including charging infrastructure, electrical upgrades, and terminal modifications.
  • Manage NEPA/SEPA environmental reviews and permitting efforts from project scoping through design and maintenance while ensuring regulatory compliance.
  • Prepare permit applications, technical documentation, and regulatory correspondence; negotiate permit conditions and secure approvals.
  • Review project plans and specifications for compliance with environmental commitments and permit requirements; resolve identified issues with project teams.
  • Identify and address complex environmental compliance issues, including reporting, documentation, and coordination with regulators and project teams.
  • Coordinate with agencies, tribes, stakeholders, consultants, and environmental staff to support project delivery and regulatory compliance.
  • Manage and review consultant and staff work products to ensure quality, consistency, and adherence to project timelines and regulatory standards.
  • Develop environmental guidance and procedures, support continuous improvement initiatives, and represent WSF in external meetings and interagency coordination.
  • 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:
  
  • Environmental Permitting Leadership - Demonstrated ability to independently lead environmental permitting and approvals efforts for transportation, infrastructure, or marine construction projects. This includes managing the full permitting lifecycle - from scoping through design and into maintenance - and delivering required permits and approvals on schedule. Candidates should be able to describe specific permitting projects they led, the agencies involved, and the outcomes achieved.
  • Regulatory Knowledge - Federal, State, and Local - Working knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental laws, regulations, and permitting processes applicable to development and operation of transportation facilities in marine waters. Demonstrated familiarity with key federal permits and approvals including NEPA, ESA, CWA Section 401, CWA Section 404, Rivers and Harbors Section 10, and CZMA; key state permits and approvals including SMA, SEPA, HPA, and DNR Aquatic Lands Use Authorization; and key local permits including shoreline permits and exemptions, noise variances, critical areas ordinance permits, and floodplain development permits.
  • Marine and Ecological Knowledge - Foundational understanding of marine ecology relevant to environmental permitting in Puget Sound contexts, including knowledge of eelgrass, marine mammals, endangered fish species, sediment impacts, and mitigation approaches. Understanding of marine construction, terminal operations, and marine facility operations sufficient to identify and address environmental compliance issues.
  • Multi-Agency Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement - Demonstrated ability to work effectively with multi-disciplinary project delivery teams, regulatory agencies including USACE, NOAA, USFWS, WDFW, Ecology, and DNR, tribal staff, and community stakeholders. Able to build and maintain productive regulatory relationships, navigate multi-agency coordination processes, and represent the agency credibly in external meetings and at public hearings.
  • Communication and Technical Writing - Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and effectively in writing, verbally, and through presentations to a variety of audiences including the public, regulatory agency managers and staff, WSF/WSDOT managers and staff, and project engineers. Able to prepare technically sound permit applications, biological assessments, environmental compliance documentation, and correspondence that meets regulatory standards.
  • Independent Judgment and Problem-Solving - Demonstrated ability to independently determine environmental compliance status, identify and evaluate solutions to complex environmental problems, and exercise sound judgment in high-stakes, time-sensitive project environments. Able to distinguish issues that can be resolved independently from those requiring supervisory input or management approval.
  • Growth Mindset - Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
  • Service-Oriented - Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
  • Special Knowledge and Skills:
    • Working knowledge of NEPA and SEPA processes and document preparation, including HEAL Act (Environmental Justice), Section 4(f)/6(f) of the U.S. DOT Act, and Section 106 of the NHPA.
    • Working knowledge of hazardous materials identification, documentation, and reporting.
    • Ability to travel between work sites throughout the greater Puget Sound region.
    • Ability to safely conduct fieldwork in all seasons and in irregular terrain or on vessels and floating structures.
  
  It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
  
  • Experience involving environmental permitting for electrification, energy infrastructure, or utility-related projects, particularly in a marine or waterfront context.
  • Experience working independently to deliver NEPA and SEPA environmental documentation, and permit application packages, and ensuring compliance with commitments through design and into maintenance.
  • Experience coordinating environmental compliance across multi-agency regulatory frameworks, particularly in Puget Sound or similar marine environments.
  • Experience supporting projects via design-bid-build and/or design-build contracting methods.
  • Experience implementing Chapter 47.85 RCW, Transportation Project Delivery and Review.
  • Familiarity with WSF operations, terminal facilities, or ferry electrification programs.
  
  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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
  • This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last 12 months.
  • 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
  
  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 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 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 Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-90891n 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
  
  Which best describes your experience independently leading environmental permitting and approvals efforts for transportation, infrastructure, marine, or utility-related projects?
  • Independently led multiple complex permitting efforts from project scoping through construction/maintenance, coordinating agencies and securing required approvals on schedule.
  • Independently led permitting efforts for projects involving multiple permits and regulatory agencies with limited supervisory guidance.
  • Assisted with environmental permitting activities, including permit preparation, coordination, or compliance tracking for transportation or infrastructure projects.
  • Limited exposure to environmental permitting processes through project support or coursework.
  • No relevant experience.
  
  02
  
  Please describe a transportation, marine, waterfront, or infrastructure project where you were responsible for environmental permitting or regulatory coordination. Include the permits/approvals involved, agencies coordinated with, and the project outcome.
  03
  
  Which best describes your working knowledge of environmental laws, regulations, and permitting processes applicable to marine or transportation projects?
  • Extensive working knowledge and regular application of federal, state, and local permitting requirements including NEPA, ESA, CWA Sections 401/404, Section 10, CZMA, SEPA, SMA, HPA, and local shoreline permits.
  • Working knowledge and regular application of several federal, state, or local environmental permitting processes for infrastructure or transportation projects.
  • Moderate knowledge of environmental permitting regulations with occasional project application.
  • Limited exposure to environmental permitting laws or regulatory coordination.
  • No relevant experience.
  
  04
  
  Please describe your experience preparing or managing NEPA and/or SEPA environmental documentation. Include the types of documents prepared, project types, your role, and the agencies involved.
  05
  
  Which best describes your experience applying marine ecology or environmental compliance knowledge to marine, waterfront, or transportation projects?
  • Extensive experience evaluating and addressing marine environmental impacts involving species protection, eelgrass, sediment impacts, mitigation, or marine facility operations.
  • Significant experience supporting environmental compliance or permitting activities in marine or waterfront environments.
  • Moderate experience or education related to marine ecology, environmental science, or marine operations.
  • Limited exposure to marine environmental topics through coursework or project participation.
  • No relevant experience.
  
  06
  
  Which best describes your experience coordinating with regulatory agencies, tribes, stakeholders, and multidisciplinary project teams?
  • Independently led complex coordination efforts involving multiple agencies, tribes, stakeholders, and project teams on high-profile or time-sensitive projects.
  • Regularly coordinated with agencies, stakeholders, or project teams to support permitting or environmental compliance activities.
  • Participated in meetings or coordination efforts with project teams or external stakeholders.
  • Limited exposure to multi-agency or stakeholder coordination.
  • No relevant experience.
  
  07
  
  Which best describes your experience preparing environmental documentation, permit applications, technical reports, or regulatory correspondence?
  • Independently prepared complex environmental documentation and permit application packages that were submitted to regulatory agencies with minimal revisions required.
  • Regularly prepared technical environmental documentation, reports, or correspondence for project or regulatory purposes.
  • Assisted with preparation or review of technical reports or environmental documentation.
  • Limited experience preparing technical or regulatory documentation.
  • No relevant experience.
  
  08
  
  Which best describes your experience independently resolving complex environmental compliance or permitting issues?
  • Independently identified, evaluated, and resolved complex environmental compliance issues affecting project scope, schedule, or permitting outcomes.
  • Regularly resolved environmental or regulatory issues with occasional supervisory guidance.
  • Assisted with identifying or resolving environmental compliance issues as part of a project team.
  • Limited experience addressing environmental compliance or permitting issues.
  • No relevant experience.
  
  09
  
  Which best describes your experience supporting environmental permitting for electrification, energy infrastructure, or utility-related projects?
  • Extensive experience leading environmental permitting efforts for electrification, utility, or energy infrastructure projects in marine or transportation environments.
  • Significant experience supporting utility, energy, or infrastructure permitting projects.
  • Moderate experience working on projects involving electrical, utility, or infrastructure improvements.
  • Limited exposure to electrification or utility-related projects.
  • No relevant experience.
  
  10
  
  Are you able to travel throughout the greater Puget Sound region and safely conduct fieldwork in all seasons, including work on vessels, floating structures, or irregular terrain?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  11
  
  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)
  
  12
  
  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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