Cascadia Director of Operations (WMS Band 4)

Cascadia Director of Operations (WMS Band 4)

Salary

$141,750.00 - $173,376.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle - Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-0W660

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

10/26/2026

Closing Date

11/9/2026 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 worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a forward-thinking leader to serve as the Cascadia Director of Operations in the Seattle area. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of transportation in the Pacific Northwest by advancing two major initiatives: Cascadia High-Speed Rail and the Interstate 5 (I-5) Program. Together, these efforts aim to improve how people and goods move throughout the region, strengthen connections between communities, and maximize the performance of our transportation system for generations to come.

As the Director of Operations, you will help guide the planning and development of these complex, long-term initiatives, overseeing efforts that span transportation studies, funding strategies, environmental reviews, design, construction, and future operations. The I-5 Program covers the corridor from the Canadian border to the Oregon border, while Cascadia High-Speed Rail envisions connecting Portland, Oregon, with Vancouver, British Columbia. This work involves collaboration with regional, state, and international partners, including the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, Oregon Department of Transportation, and Metro in the Portland region. You will also help consider how emerging air mobility options may interact with the region's broader transportation network. This leadership role is essential to advancing WSDOT's legislative commitments and federal grant obligations while helping lay the groundwork for an integrated, multimodal transportation system that better serves the Pacific Northwest.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Director of Operations will:

• Oversee business and finance management, project controls, reporting and schedule assessment, strategic planning, risk assessment, agreements (such as consultant agreements), document controls, public disclosure requests, tolling, legal support, office and facility management as well as right-of way management.
• Provide strategic advice, identify issues and barriers to success, and suggest solutions, as well as frame issues for decision making in cooperation with the Program Administrator and ensure implementation of decisions.
• Provide executive level oversight and support for program and financial management plans, legal issues, special disclosure requests and special projects.
• Provide strategic planning and decision making; developing comprehensive risk and mitigation strategies; developing clear goals and performance objectives; creating tools, trainings, and processes which effectively manage and monitor results and reward behaviors leading to improved performance, quality, and delivery.
• Work closely with Headquarters (HQ) divisions including CDPM and Budget Office and other Region offices, transit agencies and other jurisdictions, and UMAM divisions to build the partnerships needed to successfully deliver the Cascadia Program.

Qualifications

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

• Complex Issue Resolution: Demonstrated experience proactively identifying, analyzing and resolving highly complex, high-risk, and politically sensitive policy, engineering, interagency, and public-facing issues with significant organizational or public impact.
• Public Sector Finance and Governance: Demonstrated working knowledge of public-sector finance, budgeting, programming, and project delivery processes, as well as legislative and governmental decision-making frameworks.
• Leadership in Decision-Making: Demonstrated ability to navigate situations that affect policy direction, funding, public trust, safety, or operational outcomes with sound judgement. Ability to make both strategic and tactical decisions and adapt quickly to new information.
• Integrated Problem Solving: Demonstrated experience solving complex engineering or programmatic problems where solutions require integration of technical, regulatory, financial, and stakeholder considerations. Demonstrated experience performing high level negotiations and partnering with various entities with differing and complex objectives such as contractors, consultants, agencies, and local communities.
• Policy Formulation and Organizational Execution: Demonstrated experience developing, interpreting, and implementing policy, governance frameworks, and strategic plans, translating them into measurable objectives and accountable execution across complex organizations.
• 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:

• Executive Communication and Representation: Demonstrated executive-level communication effectiveness, including shaping and delivering complex technical, financial, and policy messages to elected officials, executive leadership, stakeholders, and media in high-visibility environments.
• High-Level Negotiation and External Influence: Demonstrated success leading high-stakes negotiations and influencing outcomes among competing governmental, tribal, jurisdictional, and private-sector interests to achieve strategic WSDOT objectives.
• Adaptive Executive Leadership: Application of sophisticated management skills, ensuring high quality and efficient performance of professional WSDOT and consultant staff. Demonstrated capacity to assess emerging information, risk, and political context and recalibrate strategic direction, priorities, or delivery approaches to protect program outcomes and public confidence.
• Change Leadership and Organizational Performance: Demonstrated leadership in driving continuous improvement, innovation, and organizational change across large, multidisciplinary teams while maintaining collaboration, accountability, and delivery discipline.
• Public Trust, Transparency, and Stewardship: Demonstrated success establishing and maintaining public trust through transparent governance, ethical decision-making, and responsible stewardship of public resources in politically sensitive environments.
• Executive Talent Development: Demonstrated effectiveness leading, coaching, and empowering senior managers and professional staff to sustain high performance, accountability, and leadership succession. Coach, motivate, train, and empower employees.
• Transportation/Civil Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated professional-level knowledge of transportation and civil engineering principles, land use, and practices and standards that include transportation laws and regulations.
• Education and Professional Expertise: Advanced knowledge or expertise in a relevant field acquired through an advanced degree or an equivalent combination of education, training, and professional experience.
• Complex Transportation Program Management: Demonstrated ability to manage or lead large-scale transportation programs involving significant geographic reach, financial resources, multiple technical disciplines, and diverse stakeholders with competing priorities.
• Transportation and Engineering Program Leadership: Demonstrated experience leading or managing transportation, engineering, infrastructure, or other complex programs, including coordinating technical teams, overseeing program delivery, and aligning project activities with organizational objectives.
• Senior-Level Organizational Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead large teams and complex organizational functions, establish strategic direction, guide managers and multidisciplinary teams, allocate resources, and maintain accountability for program performance and outcomes.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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 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 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 a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

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 at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference Cascadia Director of Operations #0W660 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

Which of the following best describes your experience identifying, analyzing, and resolving complex, high-risk, or politically sensitive issues?

• I have led the resolution of highly complex, high-risk, or politically sensitive issues involving multiple agencies, competing interests, or significant public, organizational, financial, or policy impacts.
• I have independently analyzed and resolved complex issues involving multiple stakeholders, competing priorities, or significant operational, policy, or public impacts.
• I have contributed to analyzing and resolving complex issues under the direction of senior leadership or a project/program lead.
• I have experience resolving routine operational or program-related issues but have limited experience with complex or high-risk matters.
• I have no experience identifying, analyzing, or resolving these types of issues.

02

Please briefly describe your experience identifying, analyzing, and resolving complex, high-risk, or politically sensitive issues. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

03

Which of the following best describes your experience applying public-sector finance, budgeting, programming, project delivery, and governmental decision-making processes?

• I have led or directed financial planning, budgeting, funding strategies, or program delivery for major public-sector initiatives, including navigating legislative requirements, governmental approvals, and funding decisions.
• I have managed or coordinated public-sector budgets, funding programs, project programming, or delivery processes while applying relevant legislative, regulatory, or governmental requirements.
• I have analyzed, monitored, or contributed to public-sector budgeting, funding, programming, or project delivery activities and have applied related governmental requirements.
• I have general knowledge of public-sector finance, budgeting, or governmental decision-making processes but limited direct experience applying them.
• I have no experience or working knowledge in these areas.

04

Please briefly describe your experience applying public-sector finance, budgeting, programming, project delivery, and governmental decision-making processes. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

05

Which of the following best describes your experience making strategic and operational decisions involving significant policy, funding, public trust, safety, or program delivery implications?

• I have led high-level strategic and operational decision-making for complex programs or organizations, balancing significant risks, competing priorities, and public or organizational impacts while adapting to changing information.
• I have independently made complex program, project, or operational decisions involving significant risks, competing priorities, or impacts to funding, safety, policy, or service delivery.
• I have recommended solutions and provided decision-making guidance to leadership on complex issues, including evaluating risks, alternatives, and potential impacts.
• I have made routine operational or project-level decisions within established policies and procedures.
• I have no experience making or supporting these types of decisions.

06

Please briefly describe your experience making strategic and operational decisions. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

07

Which of the following best describes your experience developing solutions to complex engineering or programmatic challenges that require coordination across technical, regulatory, financial, and stakeholder interests?

• I have led complex, high-level negotiations and developed integrated solutions for major programs or projects involving multiple agencies, contractors, consultants, or communities with competing or conflicting objectives.
• I have independently developed and negotiated solutions to complex engineering or programmatic challenges requiring coordination across multiple disciplines, regulatory requirements, financial considerations, and stakeholder interests.
• I have coordinated with multiple agencies, contractors, consultants, technical teams, or community stakeholders to evaluate alternatives and contribute to resolving complex project or program challenges.
• I have helped resolve technical or programmatic issues within a single discipline or team, with limited experience coordinating across multiple organizations or competing interests.
• I have no experience solving complex engineering or programmatic problems involving multiple disciplines or stakeholders.

08

Please briefly describe your experience developing solutions to complex engineering or programmatic challenges that require coordination across technical, regulatory, financial, and stakeholder interests. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

09

Which of the following best describes your experience developing, interpreting, and implementing policies, governance frameworks, or strategic plans across an organization or complex program?

• I have led the development and implementation of policies, governance frameworks, or strategic plans across a complex organization or major program, establishing measurable objectives, accountability structures, and performance measures.
• I have developed or substantially revised policies, governance frameworks, or strategic plans and overseen their implementation across multiple teams, divisions, agencies, or program areas.
• I have interpreted and implemented established policies, governance frameworks, or strategic plans and translated organizational objectives into work plans, deliverables, or performance measures.
• I have contributed to policy development, strategic planning, or implementation activities under the direction of leadership.
• I have no experience developing, interpreting, or implementing policies, governance frameworks, or strategic plans.

10

Please indicate your highest level of completed education:

• High school diploma or GED
• Associate degree
• Bachelor's degree
• Master's degree or higher
• None of the above

11

Please list the highest level of education and field of study you have completed, as well as any other academic and/or professional development course you have completed.

12

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)

13

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