Deputy Secretary for Highway and Multimodal Delivery

Deputy Secretary for Highway and Multimodal Delivery

Salary

$204,511.00 - $215,088.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Exempt

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-HQ-0E055

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

05/27/2026

Closing Date

6/17/2026 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 seeking a mission-driven leader to serve as Deputy Secretary and principal operating and delivery officer for the state's multimodal and highway transportation system. As a key member of the Secretary's executive leadership team, this role provides agency-wide leadership in developing and implementing strategies, policies, and performance objectives that guide the planning, delivery, and operation of transportation programs across a large, complex organization. The Deputy Secretary leads executive managers in executing WSDOT's strategic plan, advancing the agency's vision, mission, and values, and ensuring the transportation system is safe, reliable, and maintained in a state of good repair despite funding constraints.

In partnership with executive leadership, this role oversees near-term operations while shaping a long-term vision that supports sustainable funding, infrastructure preservation, system modernization, and the integration of innovative technologies. The Deputy Secretary also ensures alignment with legislative and strategic goals, including advancing equity, economic development, and efficient, environmentally responsible transportation solutions, while promoting Lean practices to enhance organizational effectiveness. We are looking for a passionate, action-oriented leader with an innovative approach to operational management to fill this critical role.

What to Expect

The Deputy Secretary serves as one of the senior-most executive roles after the Secretary for an agency of approximately 7,800 employees statewide. In conjunction with the Secretary, Assistant Secretaries and Directors, the incumbent is directly responsible for developing and implementing agency-wide strategies and policies that govern all non-marine aspects of the states transportation system.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Deputy Secretary for Highway and Multimodal Delivery will:

• Provide programmatic leadership and input for all strategic plan implementation processes.
• Increase the focus of the organization on the use of transportation demand management, strategies and operational improvements that incorporate smart technology to maximize the operational efficiency and safety of the system.
• Identify opportunities for WSDOT to leverage organizational strengths across agency programs to take advantage of new opportunities and/or to address organizational challenges.
• Sponsor and champion workforce development and training programs to support staff development throughout the agency.
• Lead, coach, develop, and retain WSDOTs high-performance senior management team with an emphasis on developing capacity in strategic analysis planning and program budgeting.
• Prepare and submit, in partnership with the Principal Financial Officer, an annual operational budget and capital delivery plan update.
• Foster a culture that promotes safety, employee satisfaction, and customer service.
• Work to identify both internal and external opportunity gaps and bridge those gaps to reduce disparities.
• Serve as a key external representative of WSDOT, building and maintaining strong partnerships with governmental entities, tribal governments, regional and local agencies and partner organizations to advance shared transportation goals.

Qualifications

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

• Executive Leadership & Organizational Management: Ability to lead a complex, multi-program organization by setting strategic direction, directing leaders and managers, building high-performing teams, and implementing effective and innovative operational approaches.
• Strategic Agility & Innovation: Demonstrated the ability to identify emerging opportunities, adapt programs to changing conditions, and implement innovative solutions within complex and evolving organizational environments.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Development: Ability to serve as an effective spokesperson and build, sustain, and strengthen partnerships across governmental, tribal, non-profit, private sector, and community organizations to advance shared transportation and public-interest goals.
• Transportation Systems & Infrastructure Knowledge: Working knowledge of multimodal transportation systems, capital project delivery, maintenance and preservation practices, and the intersection of transportation with land use, community, and economic development.
• Financial & Fiscal Management: Ability to oversee complex program budgets and apply sound fiscal management practices, including budget development, resource allocation, and financial accountability across a multi-functional organization.
• Data-Driven Decision Making & Performance Management: Ability to use data and performance metrics to inform priorities, communicate objectives, establish performance measures, and evaluate outcomes to drive continuous improvement.
• Executive Communication & Influence: Ability to communicate clearly, persuasively, and effectively with diverse audiences, including elected officials, community members, and agency staff, through written, verbal, and facilitated communication.
• Equity & Inclusive Leadership: Commitment to advancing equitable outcomes by engaging diverse partners, centering underrepresented voices, and reducing barriers to participation through inclusive leadership practices.
• Process Improvement & Operational Excellence: Knowledge of and ability to apply process improvement principles, including performance management, efficiency strategies, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Human Resource & Labor Relations Leadership: Knowledge of contemporary human resource practices, including workforce planning, performance management, and labor relations, with the ability to support and lead labor-management processes.
• Adaptive Leadership & Change Management: Demonstrated ability to lead through change by adapting strategies, guiding organizational transformation, and implementing solutions in complex and dynamic environments.
• Growth Mindset &Service-Oriented: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth. Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Advanced Transportation Systems Expertise: Senior-level experience with and advanced knowledge of state or regional transportation systems, including highways, transit, active transportation, and freight, as well as the associated policy, regulatory, and funding frameworks.
• Capital Program Delivery & Oversight: Experience overseeing or contributing to the delivery of large, complex capital programs (e.g., mega programs, corridor programs, or system-wide investments), including risk management, stakeholder coordination and regulatory compliance.
• Executive Policy Advising: Experience advising elected officials or senior executives on complex, high-visibility policy, infrastructure or community issues, including navigating politically sensitive environments.
• Emergency Management & Incident Response Leadership: Experience leading organizational response to emergencies, system disruptions or high-profile incidents, including coordination with multiple agencies and public communication.
• Emerging Transportation Technologies & Innovation: Familiarity with emerging transportation technologies and innovations (e.g., intelligent transportation systems, electrification, data platforms or automation) and their application to system performance and user experience.
• Advanced Analytical & Policy Expertise: Background in transportation planning, engineering, public administration, economics or a related field, or equivalent advanced analytical experience supporting infrastructure or public systems decision-making.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• The official duty station for this position may be determined based on candidate preference and overall business needs.
• 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 individual's lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and describes your track record of effectively leading a direct service organization with a complex array of programs.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter atRachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-0E055 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 briefly describe your experience leading organizations or programs, including your role in setting direction and developing teams. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

02

Executive Leadership & Organizational Management: Which statement best describes your experience leading complex, multi-program organizations?

• Lead large, complex organizations with multiple layers of management, setting strategy and driving enterprise-wide performance
• Lead multi-functional teams or divisions, including oversight of managers and strategic initiatives
• Supervise teams or programs with some responsibility for direction and outcomes
• Have limited or no experience leading complex organizations

03

Transportation Systems & Infrastructure Knowledge: Which statement best describes your knowledge of transportation systems and infrastructure?

• Advanced working knowledge across multimodal systems and infrastructure planning and delivery
• Solid working knowledge of transportation systems and related practices
• Basic familiarity with transportation or infrastructure concepts
• Limited or no knowledge of transportation systems

04

Financial & Fiscal Management: Which statement best describes your experience managing budgets and financial resources?

• Oversee large, complex budgets and ensure fiscal accountability across multiple programs or functions
• Manage program-level budgets and resource allocation with accountability for outcomes
• Assist with budget tracking and financial processes
• Have limited experience with financial management

05

Please describe your experience managing budgets, funding, or financial accountability, including the size and scope of the operating budgets you have overseen. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

06

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence: Which statement best describes your experience with process improvement?

• Lead organization-wide process improvement initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement
• Regularly apply process improvement methods to enhance efficiency and performance
• Participate in process improvement efforts as a team member
• Have limited experience with process improvement

07

Human Resource & Labor Relations Leadership: Which statement best describes your experience with HR and labor relations?

• Lead workforce planning, performance management, and labor relations, including negotiations or labor-management processes
• Regularly manage staff performance and support HR processes
• Assist with HR-related tasks under guidance
• Have limited experience with HR or labor relations

08

Advanced Transportation Systems Expertise: Which statement best describes your expertise in transportation systems?

• Demonstrate advanced, senior-level expertise in multimodal transportation systems and related frameworks
• Possess strong working knowledge of transportation systems and policies
• Have general familiarity with transportation systems
• Have limited or no experience in transportation systems

09

Capital Program Delivery & Oversight: Which statement best describes your experience with capital program delivery?

• Lead or oversee large, complex capital programs, including risk, compliance, and stakeholder coordination
• Manage or contribute significantly to capital program delivery
• Support capital program activities in a limited capacity
• Have limited or no experience with capital programs

10

Emergency Management & Incident Response Leadership: Which statement best describes your experience with emergency or incident response?

• Lead coordinated responses to major incidents or emergencies involving multiple agencies
• Regularly participate in or manage response efforts
• Support emergency response activities as needed
• Have limited or no experience with emergency response

11

Please select the following areas in which you have extensive experience. Check all that apply:

• Capital delivery
• Maintenance and preservation
• Multimodal
• Transportation systems
• Land use issues
• Community and economic development
• None of the above

12

Please briefly describe how you gained extensive experience in the areas you selected above. If you do not have experience in any of the listed areas, please enter N/A.

13

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)

14

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