Accounting Assistant 3 - Washington State Ferries

Accounting Assistant 3 - Washington State Ferries

Salary

$61,860.00 - $89,052.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-WSF-A0306

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Washington State Ferries

Opening Date

09/23/2026

Closing Date

9/30/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

The first consideration and/or preference is with current Washington State Ferries OPEIU members

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 worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washingtons 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 detail-oriented accounting professional to support accurate financial reporting and timely vendor payments and employee reimbursements. Working within the expenditures group, this position helps safeguard public resources by ensuring financial transactions meet applicable regulations, policies, and contractual obligations. The role provides reliable accounting information that supports management decisions and financial accountability. Your work will contribute to the financial foundation that keeps ferry operations safe, reliable, and responsive to the communities we serve.

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 Accounting Assistant 3 will:

• Prepare and verify accounting documents, including GAX, PRC, and journal vouchers; resolve discrepancies before approval.
• Perform 3-part matching, verify tax status, and enter documentation and payment transactions into TRAINS.
• Audit transactions for accuracy, completeness, timeliness, and policy compliance; submit supporting documentation for approval.
• Maintain accounting records, spreadsheets, and invoice files.
• Review and approve PCMS transactions at the assigned level; verify coding, calculations, discounts, and sales tax before Accountant authorization.
• Resolve invoice, purchase order, and PCMS discrepancies with WSF staff and vendors.
• Manage the team inbox, respond to fiscal inquiries, and provide accounting policy and procedure guidance.
• Sort and scan mail and prepare correspondence, reports, forms, and documents.
• 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:

• Growth Mindset - Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented - Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Fostering Respect and Equal Opportunity - Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
• Customer Service & Communication - Clearly and professionally communicate, both verbally and in writing, with diverse internal and external customers; actively listen to understand needs and respond appropriately.
• Teamwork & Collaboration - Work cooperatively and respectfully with colleagues to meet shared goals, contributing to a positive and productive team environment.
• Knowledge of GAAP - ability to understand and apply Federal and State regulations to business functions
• Financial Analysis & Reconciliation - Ability to analyze and enter financial data, identify discrepancies, enter adjustments and ensure accurate reporting. Research applicable state laws, rules, policies and procedures related to area of responsibility.
• Technical Proficiency - Use Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, Teams) at a basic level to create, edit, and share documents, spreadsheets, and communications.
• Problem solving & Critical Thinking - Identifies financial issues and implements corrective solutions.
• Independence & Initiative - Work with minimal supervision, taking responsibility for completing tasks and proactively identifying opportunities to improve processes.
• Detail oriented and organized - Ensures fiscal accuracy, follows policies, and maintains financial integrity, ability to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent deadlines.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• System Proficiency - Demonstrate proficiency in WSDOT financial and administrative platforms, including TRAINS, PCMS, ILinx and other agency systems, to accurately process transactions and access information.
• Public Sector Accounting Skills - Use knowledge of public sector accounting standards and procedures to review transactions, resolve discrepancies, and ensure compliance

Important Notes

• The first consideration and/or preference is with current Washington State Ferries OPEIU members
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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.
• 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

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 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 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 renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-A0306 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. Thats 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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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

Parental Leave

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

Describe your knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and your experience applying federal and state requirements to financial work. Provide an example identifying the accounting principle or requirement, how you researched or verified it, and how you applied it. If your knowledge comes from coursework or training, describe that preparation.

02

Describe an example of reviewing or entering financial data and identifying a discrepancy. Explain how you investigated the cause, researched applicable rules or procedures, made or recommended an adjustment, and verified the result. Identify which steps you completed independently and which required assistance.

03

Which option best describes your experience listening to customer needs and responding verbally and in writing to internal or external customers?

• I independently resolve complex inquiries, explain requirements, and coordinate follow-up to address customer needs.
• I independently handle routine inquiries and resolve concerns, seeking guidance on complex situations.
• I respond to routine inquiries using established guidance and refer matters outside my responsibility.
• I have assisted with customer inquiries or practiced these skills through training, with guidance.
• I have no experience or training in responding to customer inquiries.

04

Which option best describes your experience contributing to shared goals while supporting respectful treatment and equal opportunities for others to participate?

• I have coordinated shared work, addressed barriers to participation, and helped colleagues resolve disagreements respectfully.
• I regularly collaborate on shared tasks, seek others' input, and adjust my approach to support respectful participation.
• I participate in team assignments, share information, and treat colleagues respectfully while completing my responsibilities.
• I have limited team experience and have practiced respectful collaboration with guidance.
• I have no experience or training in collaborative work.

05

Which option best describes your experience learning and applying new skills or procedures?

• I regularly identify learning needs, seek feedback or training, apply what I learn, and evaluate the results.
• I seek feedback or training and apply new skills or procedures to improve my work.
• I complete assigned training and apply what I learn to my responsibilities.
• I have participated in training but need guidance to apply the skills or procedures.
• I have not yet participated in relevant training or applied new skills or procedures.

06

Which option best describes your ability to use Excel, Outlook, and Teams? Select the highest level you can perform across all three applications.

• I independently use Excel formulas, sorting, and filtering; manage Outlook email and calendars; and coordinate Teams meetings and file collaboration.
• I independently create and edit basic Excel spreadsheets, manage Outlook email and appointments, and use Teams messaging, meetings, and file sharing.
• I perform these basic Excel, Outlook, and Teams tasks with occasional assistance.
• I have used some of these applications but need step-by-step guidance to complete basic tasks across all three.
• I have no experience using these applications.

07

Which option best describes your experience maintaining accurate financial work while managing frequent deadlines?

• I independently prioritize competing financial assignments, verify accuracy and policy compliance, and adjust workloads to meet changing deadlines.
• I independently organize recurring financial assignments, check supporting records, and meet established deadlines.
• I complete assigned financial tasks and accuracy checks using established procedures, with occasional guidance on priorities.
• I have assisted with financial tasks or completed related training, with close guidance on accuracy and deadlines.
• I have no experience or training in managing financial tasks and deadlines.

08

Which option best describes your direct experience using TRAINS, PCMS, ILinx, or other WSDOT financial and administrative systems?

• I independently use one or more of these systems for complex processing and help others resolve system or transaction issues.
• I independently use one or more of these systems to complete routine transactions or document processing and retrieve information.
• I use one or more of these systems for routine tasks with occasional assistance.
• I have completed training or had limited exposure to these systems and require step-by-step guidance.
• I have not used these systems.

09

Which option best describes your experience applying public sector accounting standards and procedures?

• I independently research and apply public sector accounting requirements to review complex transactions, resolve discrepancies, and verify compliance.
• I independently apply established public sector accounting procedures to review routine transactions and resolve discrepancies.
• I assist with public sector transaction reviews and discrepancy resolution under guidance.
• I have coursework or training in public sector accounting but no practical experience applying it.
• I have no experience or training in public sector accounting.

10

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)

11

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

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov