• Job Description

  Req#: 5451237
  Salary : $93,227.00 - $125,433.00 Annually
  Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-91020r
  Department: Dept. of Transportation
  Division: Washington State Ferries
  Opening Date: 08/17/2026
  Closing Date: 8/31/2026 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 a Federal Funding & Grants Specialist to lead the strategic planning, analysis, and coordination of federal funding and grant programs that support WSF's capital and operating priorities. As WSF's primary subject matter expert on federal and state grant programs, this position provides strategic guidance to executive leadership and represents WSF's funding interests with federal agencies, state partners, and regional planning organizations. This role helps maximize funding opportunities, strengthen grant management practices, and ensure alignment with applicable requirements and WSF priorities. The position's work is critical to securing and effectively managing resources that support safe, reliable ferry service and the communities that depend on Washington's marine transportation system.
  
  As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system - guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow 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 Federal Funding & Grants Specialist will:
  
  • Serve as WSF's subject matter expert on federal and state grant programs, policies, regulations, and funding requirements.
  • Develop and maintain grant policies, procedures, and practices to ensure compliance with federal requirements.
  • Lead federal funding strategy, forecasting, planning, and evaluation of grant opportunities.
  • Coordinate federal funding activities with grantor agencies, WSDOT, regional partners, and internal WSF programs.
  • Lead competitive grant application development, project eligibility reviews, funding recommendations, and grantor responses.
  • Provide federal funding expertise for WSF capital, operating, long-range, and regional transportation planning.
  • Review grant documentation, reporting, and compliance materials and provide technical guidance across WSF.
  • Monitor and communicate federal policy changes, funding opportunities, deadlines, and compliance requirements.
  • 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:
  
  • Federal Grants Knowledge & Expertise
    • Demonstrated knowledge of federal transportation grant programs, laws, regulations, and funding distribution processes, including FTA, FHWA, DHS, FEMA, and MARAD programs.
    • Knowledge of federal grant planning, application, budgeting, programming, and administration throughout the full grant life cycle.
    • Knowledge of federal electronic grant management systems, including TrAMS and Grants.gov.
  • Strategic Planning & Analysis
    • Ability to lead strategic planning for the use of federal funds; develop and maintain federal revenue forecasts; and reconcile available federal funds against programmed uses across capital and operating programs.
    • Skill in researching, evaluating, and recommending federal funding opportunities to executive management.
  • Policy Development & Advisory Services
    • Ability to develop, maintain, and analyze grant policies, procedures, and practices.
    • Skill in performing management analysis to identify efficiency improvements in grant administration.
    • Ability to prepare clear, accurate analysis and briefing materials for executive management, OFM, and legislative staff.
  • Lead Work Collaboration
    • Ability to provide lead work collaboration and technical guidance across WSF on federal funding and grant matters based on subject matter expertise.
    • Skill in coordinating work activities across WSF to ensure alignment with federal requirements and program deadlines.
    • Ability to review work products for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with federal requirements.
    • Ability to serve as WSF's primary liaison with federal grantor agencies, MPOs, RTPOs, and regional planning bodies.
    • Skill in organizing, facilitating, and representing WSF in interagency meetings and regional planning forums.
  • Communication
    • Ability to communicate complex grant and funding information with precision and clarity, both verbally and in writing, to audiences ranging from federal agency staff to WSF executives and legislators.
    • Ability to prepare and deliver analyses, briefing materials, and position papers that translate complex federal requirements into clear, actionable guidance for diverse audiences.
    • Ability to represent WSF's federal funding interests credibly and professionally in interagency meetings, legislative settings, and federal agency engagements.
    • Skill in communicating federal policy changes, program updates, and compliance requirements clearly and in a timely manner to internal staff and stakeholders.
  • Professional Experience in Grant Development & Administration
    • Demonstrated advanced knowledge in federal grant development and administration, including a thorough understanding of federal eligibility criteria, federal transportation grant programs, and capital and operating transportation project requirements.
    • Demonstrated experience managing multiple grant programs simultaneously across different federal agencies and funding sources.
    • Demonstrated experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
  • Growth Mindset
    • Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth; seeks feedback, applies lessons from experience, and pursues professional development relevant to procurement and maritime operations.
  • Service-Oriented
    • Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others; proactively supports internal customers and external partners to ensure procurement needs are addressed accurately and on time.
  
  It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
  
  • Federal Transportation Programs
    • Knowledge of federal public transportation grant programs and applicable circulars including FTA 5307, 5309, 5310, 5311, and 5339.
    • Familiarity with IIJA/BIL funding programs and federal transportation authorization and appropriation acts.
  • Regional Planning & Programming
    • Experience representing an agency on MPO or RTPO committees, including the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC).
    • Knowledge of TIP and STIP requirements for federally funded projects and regional transportation planning processes.
  • WSF & Marine Transportation
    • Working knowledge of Washington State ferry system operations, capital programs, and marine transportation.
    • Familiarity with WSF's operating and capital budget structure and program delivery processes.
  • State Budget & Program Management
    • Knowledge of state budgeting and program management policies, procedures, and practices, including biennial budget development, allotment preparation, and legislative program requirements.
  • Grant Policy & Guidelines Development
    • Experience developing and maintaining grant policies, procedures, and administrative guidelines at a division or agency level.
    • Familiarity with OMB, USDOT, and FTA circulars governing grant program management.
  • Research & Investigative Skills
    • Strong research and analytical skills especially related to federal regulations, grant eligibility determinations, and competitive grant strategy development.
  • Computer & Systems Proficiency
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
    • Demonstrated experience with federal electronic grant management systems including TrAMS and Grants.gov.
    • Ability to learn and work with new financial and technical systems; adapts quickly to system upgrades and newly implemented platforms.
  
  Important Notes
  
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options: This position is eligible for teleworking and offers a flexible work arrangement that may include remote work, in-office work, and in-person meetings based on business needs. Employees must be able to report onsite when requested for meetings, collaboration, or operational needs. Regular in-person attendance is expected at a minimum quarterly, with additional onsite presence as needed. Travel may also be required based on position responsibilities.
  • 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.
  • 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-91020r 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 option best describes your knowledge of federal transportation grant programs, regulations, and funding processes?
  • I independently manage and interpret complex federal transportation grant programs and requirements across multiple agencies such as FTA, FHWA, DHS, FEMA, or MARAD.
  • I regularly work with federal transportation grant programs and apply grant regulations and funding requirements in my work.
  • I have experience supporting federal grant activities with some familiarity with transportation grant requirements.
  • I have limited exposure to federal grant programs or regulations.
  • I do not have experience with federal transportation grant programs.
  
  02
  
  Which option best describes your experience analyzing and planning the use of federal funds?
  • I independently lead strategic planning, forecasting, and funding analysis for multiple capital or operating programs using federal funds.
  • I regularly analyze funding opportunities, reconcile funding sources, and support program planning activities.
  • I have experience assisting with budget or funding analysis activities.
  • I have limited experience with financial or funding analysis.
  • I do not have experience with federal funding analysis or planning.
  
  03
  
  Which option best describes your experience developing and administering federal grant applications and programs?
  • I independently develop, manage, and administer complex federal grant programs throughout the full grant life cycle.
  • I regularly coordinate grant applications, reporting, compliance, or grant administration activities.
  • I have assisted with grant-related activities under guidance from others.
  • I have limited exposure to grant development or administration.
  • I do not have experience with grant development or administration.
  
  04
  
  Please describe your experience working with federal transportation grant programs, including the agencies, grant programs, or funding sources you have supported. Include your role and the types of grant activities you performed.
  05
  
  Which option best describes your ability to develop policies, procedures, or recommendations related to grant or program administration?
  • I independently develop and evaluate policies, procedures, and operational recommendations and provide advisory support to executive leadership or external stakeholders.
  • I regularly contribute to policy development, process improvement, or management analysis activities.
  • I have occasional experience reviewing or updating procedures or guidance documents.
  • I have limited experience with policy or process improvement work.
  • I do not have experience developing policies or procedures.
  
  06
  
  Which option best describes your experience coordinating work activities and providing technical guidance to others?
  • I regularly lead or coordinate cross-functional work activities and provide technical guidance based on subject matter expertise.
  • I frequently collaborate with others to coordinate projects, priorities, or compliance activities.
  • I have some experience supporting collaborative team or project efforts.
  • I have limited experience coordinating work activities with others.
  • I do not have experience providing coordination or technical guidance.
  
  07
  
  Which option best describes your ability to communicate complex information to varied audiences?
  • I regularly prepare and present complex analyses, recommendations, or briefing materials to executive leadership, external agencies, or public stakeholders.
  • I frequently communicate technical or regulatory information in written and verbal formats to professional audiences.
  • I have experience communicating routine information to internal or external stakeholders.
  • I have limited experience presenting or explaining technical information.
  • I do not have experience communicating complex or technical information.
  
  08
  
  Which option best describes your experience coordinating with regional planning organizations, federal agencies, or external stakeholders?
  • I regularly represent an agency or organization in regional planning forums, interagency committees, or federal coordination meetings.
  • I frequently coordinate with external agencies or stakeholders regarding funding, planning, or compliance activities.
  • I have occasional experience participating in external coordination meetings or activities.
  • I have limited experience working with external agencies or stakeholders.
  • I do not have experience coordinating with external organizations.
  
  09
  
  Which option best describes your experience using grant management or business software systems?
  • I regularly use federal grant management systems such as TRAMS, Grants.gov, or similar systems in addition to advanced Microsoft Office applications.
  • I frequently use grant management systems or business software applications to support program or financial activities.
  • I have limited experience using grant or financial management software systems.
  • I have basic computer proficiency but little experience with grant-related systems.
  • I do not have experience using grant management software systems.
  
  10
  
  Please describe your experience managing multiple priorities or grant activities simultaneously while working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to meet deadlines and compliance requirements.
  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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