Job Details

Salary : $92,016.00 - $118,008.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-0W709
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 01/22/2026
Closing Date: 2/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a motivated Policy and Project Manager to join the Office of Innovative Partnerships (OIP), where innovation and collaboration drive the future of Washington's transportation system. OIP engages the private sector through public-private partnerships (P3s) to advance transportation projects, programs, and policies, while managing state and federal investments that support alternative fuel infrastructure statewide. This management position will lead the development and implementation of policies governing WSDOT's Public-Private Partnership program and play a key role in launching the Department's new P3 program authorized by the 2025 Legislature. Following program implementation, the position will oversee complex, high-profile projects that bring together public and private partners to deliver transportation infrastructure, including structuring agreements, conducting feasibility analyses, managing risk, ensuring regulatory compliance, and overseeing project execution in the public interest.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Innovative Partnership Policy and Project Manager will:

• Lead the development of the department's P3 pipeline of projects, rules, guidelines that set the policies and procedures for screening, selection, procurement, implementation and monitoring of projects.
• Lead the development of feasibility studies, economic and social impact assessments, and develop the project's business case.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between government agencies and private sector partners, facilitating communication and coordination to advance shared goals.
• Engage with stakeholders, including governments, private investors, and the public, and address concerns to ensure project success and maintain public support.
• Develop materials to support the development of P3 projects for the department, and community stakeholders as part of oversight and community engagement activities.
• Develop and lead the implementation of communication strategies that further the Departments P3 mission, including the creation of content to the program website, newsletter, social media, materials used at public meetings, and facilitating positive interactions with press, community groups, and the public.
• Develop and manage a fair and transparent procurement process and manage the project contract.
• Manage the bid process, qualify bidders, and assist in overseeing the transaction phase up to financial close. Assist in the planning and execution of internal and external meetings/events.
• Lead the development, structuring, and delivery of projects, integrating various components and managing resources across different departments.
• Monitor projects, report on fiscal obligations, and implement risk management strategies throughout the project lifecycle.
• Evaluate the private partner's performance and report findings, which include administering payments, handling changes or disputes, ensure contractual obligations are met, and identify lessons learned for future projects.
• Establish processes and procedures for managing and monitoring the full project lifecycle, from initial concept to completion, ensuring all objectives and deliverables are achieved on time and within scope.

Qualifications

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

• Data Analysis & Evidence-Based Decision Making: Demonstrated ability to collect, analyze, interpret, and synthesize complex data to inform policy, program, or organizational decisions and recommendations.
• Legal & Institutional Framework Application: Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply relevant legal, regulatory, or institutional frameworks to ensure compliance, sound governance, and informed decision-making.
• Technical Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrated proficiency in communicating complex or technical concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences using written, verbal, and visual communication methods.
• Progressive Responsibility & Impact: Demonstrated career progression with increasing levels of responsibility and measurable impact on programs, projects, policies, or organizational outcomes.
• Public Policy Development & Implementation: Demonstrated expertise in public policy analysis, development, and implementation, including translating policy objectives into actionable strategies and outcomes.
• Project, Program & Portfolio Management: Demonstrated ability to manage projects, programs, or portfolios from initiation through delivery, including scope, schedule, risk, and performance oversight.
• Project Management Methodologies & Tools: Demonstrated experience applying appropriate project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) and tools to support effective planning, execution, and delivery.
• Analytical & Problem-Solving Capability: Demonstrated strong analytical and critical-thinking skills to identify issues, evaluate options, and develop practical, data-informed solutions.
• Communication, Negotiation & Relationship Management: Demonstrated ability to build relationships, negotiate effectively, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to achieve shared objectives.
• Strategic Thinking & Organizational Alignment: Demonstrated ability to think strategically and align public-private partnership (P3) initiatives with broader organizational goals, legislative intent, and public value.
• Leadership & Team Management: Demonstrated leadership capability, including guiding teams, setting priorities, managing performance, and fostering accountability and collaboration.
• Financial & Budget Management: Demonstrated understanding of financial management and budgeting principles, including planning, monitoring expenditures, and ensuring fiscal responsibility.
• Complex Workload & Priority Management: Demonstrated ability to manage complex, high-impact initiatives while balancing competing priorities, timelines, and stakeholder expectations.
• Adaptability & Change Navigation: Demonstrated ability to adapt to change, navigate uncertainty, and respond effectively in dynamic or evolving policy and project environments.
• 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:

• P3 Legal & Regulatory Application: Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks governing Public-Private Partnerships.
• Private Sector Strategy & Integration: Proven experience designing strategies to accelerate private sector participation and integrating private investment into public operations.
• Cross-Sector Coordination: Ability to align and collaborate with government agencies, private investors, and financial institutions while balancing competing objectives.
• Infrastructure & Project Finance Expertise: Knowledge of infrastructure sectors, project finance, and experience with P3 development or implementation.
• Financial & Economic Analysis: Proficiency in financial modeling and economic evaluation for complex infrastructure projects.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills for managing complex projects and diverse stakeholders.
• Contract & Project Management: Ability to oversee contracts and multi-year projects, ensuring compliance, quality, accountability, and successful delivery.
• Consensus Building & Problem Resolution: Demonstrated ability to build consensus, manage relationships, and resolve challenges arising from public-private collaboration.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.
• 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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 of 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at . Please be sure to reference Innovative Partnership Policy and Project Manager #0W709 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 statement best describes your experience using complex data to guide decisions?

• I independently collect, analyze, and synthesize complex datasets to develop actionable recommendations and inform organizational policy or strategy.
• I analyze and interpret data with guidance and contribute to decision-making processes.
• I have supported data collection or analysis but have limited experience applying findings to decision-making.
• I do not have experience in this area.

02

Which statement best reflects your experience interpreting legal, regulatory, or institutional frameworks?

• I routinely interpret and apply complex legal or institutional frameworks to ensure compliance and guide decision-making independently.
• I apply frameworks under guidance or supervision to support compliance and decision-making.
• I have limited exposure to legal or institutional frameworks in professional settings.
• I do not have experience in this area.

03

Which statement best describes your ability to communicate technical or complex concepts to diverse audiences?

• I regularly communicate complex ideas clearly to diverse stakeholders using written, verbal, and visual formats, influencing decisions or outcomes.
• I communicate technical information to colleagues or stakeholders with occasional guidance.
• I have limited experience presenting technical or complex information.
• I do not have experience in this area.

04

Which statement best reflects your experience in public policy?

• I independently analyze, develop, and implement policy, translating objectives into actionable strategies with measurable results.
• I assist in policy development or implementation under supervision.
• I have limited exposure to public policy work.
• I do not have experience in this area.

05

Which statement best describes your experience managing projects or programs?

• I manage complex projects, programs, or portfolios independently, including scope, schedule, risk, and performance oversight.
• I manage projects or programs with guidance and oversight.
• I support project management tasks but do not have full management responsibility.
• I do not have experience in this area.

06

Please briefly describe your experience managing projects or programs. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
07

Which statement best describes your experience with project management methodologies?

• I independently apply methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) and tools to plan, execute, and deliver projects.
• I apply methodologies and tools with guidance to support project planning and execution.
• I have limited exposure to project management methodologies or tools.
• I do not have experience in this area.

08

Which statement best reflects your experience aligning initiatives with organizational strategy?

• I independently connect projects or programs to strategic goals and organizational priorities, ensuring alignment with policy or public value.
• I assist in aligning initiatives with organizational goals under guidance.
• I have limited exposure to strategic planning or organizational alignment.
• I do not have experience in this area.

09

Please briefly describe your experience aligning initiatives with organizational strategy. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
10

Which statement best describes your leadership experience?

• I lead teams, set priorities, manage performance, and foster accountability and collaboration independently.
• I provide guidance or supervision to teams with oversight.
• I contribute to team management but have limited leadership responsibility.
• I do not have experience in this area.

11

Which statement best reflects your experience managing financial resources?

• I independently plan, monitor, and manage budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with policies.
• I assist with financial management under supervision.
• I have limited exposure to budget or financial management.
• I do not have experience in this area.

12

Please select the certifications you have (select all that apply):

• PMP
• PgMP
• PfMP
• Other certifications in project, program, or portfolio management
• None of the above

13

Do you have experience with international projects?

• Yes
• No

14

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)

15

If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question