Construction Administration Manager (WMS3)
State of WashingtonDescription
About WSDOTThe 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’s State Construction Office is currently seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking leader to fill the Construction Administration Manager vacancy. The State Construction Office plays a critical role in establishing statewide specifications, policies, and guidance for the administration of construction contracts, ensuring consistency and stewardship of federal funding across WSDOT projects. The Construction Administration Manager will serve as a key technical expert and leader, overseeing the eConstruction Program, Documentation Engineering, Specifications, and Construction Training functions. This position will also act as a primary liaison with internal and external partners, aligning WSDOT construction policy with the needs of cross-functional teams including the Bridge and Structures Office, Office of Equity and Civil Rights, and the Federal Highway Administration. A strong candidate will demonstrate technical proficiency in contract administration, collaborative communication skills, and the ability to guide teams and resolve complex construction issues effectively.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Construction Administration Manager will:
- Manage the budget and operation of the State Construction Office.
- Provide technical expertise to the Regions, Meqa Programs and the Assistant State Construction Engineers regarding contract administration procedures.
- Monitor performance of contract administration processes; provide reports and assessments to gauge their effectiveness and make necessary changes to specifications, manuals, and guidance documents.
- Coordinate with the Office of Equity and Civil Rights regarding policy changes and implementation of federal and state programs.
- Oversee compliance with Federal Training and State Apprenticeship requirements.
- Propose, review, and develop research and new technologies, and drive implementation on WSDOT projects.
- Oversee FHWA Stewardship Agreement compliance and reporting to ensure continued eligibility for federal funds on federal projects.
- Provide leadership and guidance for the State Construction Office training program.
- Lead the review and analysis of proposed legislation on behalf of the Construction Division.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Contract Administration Expertise: Demonstrated ability to interpret, apply, and guide others in the use of construction contract documents, administration policies, procedures, and documentation standards to ensure compliance with WSDOT, state, and federal requirements.
- Construction Policy Leadership: Experience leading teams to develop, implement, and maintain construction policies, specifications, and statewide procedures that support consistency, quality, and efficiency.
- Technical and Regulatory Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of construction methods, materials, and documentation practices; state and federal public contracting laws; audit and compliance principles; and environmental and cultural resource requirements related to construction.
- Analytical and Decision-Making Skills: Skilled in assessing complex contract administration issues, determining acceptable risk levels, and making informed, defensible decisions that align with organizational goals and regulatory obligations.
- Conflict Resolution and Negotiation: Ability to facilitate the resolution of disputes and disagreements between internal and external stakeholders through effective communication, collaboration, and alternative dispute resolution techniques.
- Leadership and Team Development: Demonstrated capability to lead and inspire diverse teams, provide coaching and mentoring, foster an inclusive work environment, and promote alignment with WSDOT’s values and strategic priorities.
- Communication and Presentation Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to convey technical information clearly, prepare comprehensive guidance documents, and deliver effective presentations and training sessions.
- Relationship Building and Collaboration: Proficiency in building and maintaining productive relationships with internal offices, external agencies, and industry partners to coordinate efforts and ensure shared understanding of construction policies and practices.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Field and Documentation Engineering Expertise: Experience serving as a region documentation engineer, field engineer, or office engineer with demonstrated proficiency in applying construction documentation standards, verifying compliance, and supporting effective project delivery.
- Construction and Contract Administration Knowledge: Strong foundation in engineering, construction management, or contract administration principles, with the ability to integrate technical knowledge into practical solutions that improve construction processes and policy implementation obtained from extensive experience and/or education.
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
- 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.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit, please visit www.uscis.gov
Why WSDOT
- Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
- 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-0W690 in the subject line.