Assistant Director of Payroll and Financial System Operations (WMS3)

Assistant Director of Payroll and Financial System Operations (WMS3)

Salary

$114,504.00 - $146,784.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-HQ-0W698

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

06/03/2026

Closing Date

6/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

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!

The Opportunity

WSDOT's Accounting & Financial Services Division (AFS) is seeking an experienced and collaborative leader to serve as the Assistant Director of Payroll and Financial System Operations in Lacey, Washington. In this critical leadership role, you will help guide statewide payroll operations and large-scale financial system modernization efforts that support WSDOT's mission of delivering safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation solutions for Washington communities. Reporting to the Deputy Director of Accounting & Financial Services, this position provides strategic direction and expert oversight for payroll operations, financial systems implementation, maintenance and operations, regulatory compliance, and agency-wide financial reporting. A strong candidate will bring demonstrated expertise in complex financial systems, project and change management, governmental accounting principles, cross-functional leadership, and operational problem-solving, along with the ability to communicate effectively, build strong partnerships, and lead teams through high-impact organizational transformation.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Director of Payroll and Financial System Operations will:

• Lead and manage the Financial & Systems Consulting Services and Payroll teams, including performance management, training, and development of accounting and information technology professionals.
• Ensure WSDOT employees are paid accurately, timely, and in compliance with all applicable regulations and collective bargaining agreements.
• Serve as a key advisor to the AFS Director and Deputy Director on financial system implementation, modernization, stabilization and maintenance operation efforts.
• Act as a liaison between AFS leadership and project teams to support implementation activities, including team resourcing, customer support, reconciliations, issue resolution, and operational readiness.
• Address critical system failures and complex financial system issues during maintenance and operations to ensure compliance, operational continuity, and resolution of risks impacting financial reporting and internal controls.
• Develop, administer, and modify statewide accounting and financial policies to ensure alignment with agency business needs, system design, GAAP standards, and federal and state regulations.
• Lead system analysis, testing, implementation, and training activities related to complex financial regulations, policies, and statewide financial system modernization initiatives.
• Collaborate with AFS leadership, project teams, and agency stakeholders to identify business needs, coordinate statewide training, prioritize system enhancements, and support successful implementation and long-term maintenance of financial systems.

Qualifications

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

Technical and Professional Expertise

• Demonstrated ability to apply advanced principles of business administration, accounting, or information technology to solve complex financial or operational challenges.
• Proven expertise in navigating and supporting complex financial systems, including system development, configuration, testing, implementation, and troubleshooting.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate teams through all phases of financial system implementation, with increasing responsibility across multiple projects or workstreams.
• Ability to manage technical projects using formal project management methodologies, tools, and practices, ensuring deliverables meet scope, timeline, and quality standards.
• Ability to conduct sophisticated data and system analysis to identify issues, interpret results, and recommend effective solutions.

Leadership and Management

• Skill in leading cross-functional teams through change, with the ability to motivate, coordinate, and guide team members to achieve project and organizational goals.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Ability to work independently, make informed decisions, and exercise sound judgment with minimal supervision.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate technical information for non-technical audiences and prepare clear, concise documentation.
• Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively with customers, stakeholders, and team members through written, verbal, and in-person interactions.
• Demonstrated ability to provide high-quality customer service, including the ability to understand customer needs, offer guidance, and maintain positive working relationships through on-site and remote support.

Behavioral and Workplace Skills

• Ability to perform effectively under pressure, managing competing priorities and adapting to rapidly changing requirements.
• Strong organizational skills, including attention to detail, time management, and the ability to track and coordinate multiple work activities.
• Demonstrated commitment to teamwork and collaboration, contributing to a positive, productive, and inclusive work environment.

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 demonstrate:

• Project Management Framework Expertise: Advanced knowledge of project management and framework.
• Collective Bargaining Agreements Knowledge: Advanced knowledge of WSDOT collective bargaining agreements.
• Financial Systems Implementation Experience: Advanced experience implementing financial systems.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• 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.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• 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. 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 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 Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-0W698 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

Please select the response that best describes your experience navigating and supporting complex financial systems, including system development, configuration, testing, implementation, and troubleshooting.

• I have independently navigated and supported complex financial systems across full implementation lifecycles, including configuration, testing, implementation, and troubleshooting.
• I have regularly navigated and supported financial systems and contributed to implementation, configuration, testing, or troubleshooting activities.
• I have supported financial systems under guidance in one or more lifecycle areas.
• I have limited experience navigating or supporting financial systems.
• I do not have this experience.

02

Please briefly describe your experience navigating and supporting complex financial systems. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

03

Please select the response that best describes your experience managing technical projects using formal project management methodologies, tools, and practices, ensuring deliverables meet scope, timeline, and quality standards.

• I have independently managed complex technical projects using formal methodologies, tools, and practices, ensuring scope, schedule, and quality standards were met.
• I have managed or coordinated major project components using formal project management practices with minimal guidance.
• I have supported project management activities such as tracking deliverables, schedules, or scope under direction.
• I have limited experience with formal project management methodologies.
• I do not have this experience.

04

Please briefly describe your experience managing technical projects using formal project management methodologies, tools, and practices. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

05

Please briefly describe experience leading technical professionals through activities such as system administration, bugs and enhancements, report development, release management and triage process. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

06

Please briefly describe your experience and knowledge of the following: TRAINS 4.0 System, DOTtime System, Extract Transform Load (ETL) Development and Financial Report Development. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

07

Please select the response that best describes your knowledge of project management frameworks.

• I have advanced knowledge and application of project management frameworks.
• I have working knowledge and application of project management frameworks.
• I have basic familiarity with project management frameworks.
• I have limited exposure to project management frameworks.
• I do not have this experience.

08

Please select the response that best describes your knowledge of collective bargaining agreements.

• I have advanced knowledge and application of collective bargaining agreements.
• I have working knowledge of collective bargaining agreements.
• I have basic familiarity with collective bargaining agreements.
• I have limited exposure to collective bargaining agreements.
• I do not have this experience.

09

Please select the response that best describes your experience implementing financial systems.

• I have independently supported or contributed to financial system implementation in complex environments.
• I have contributed to financial system implementation activities with minimal guidance.
• I have supported financial system implementation under direction.
• I have limited experience with financial system implementation.
• I do not have this experience.

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