DescriptionAbout WSDOTThe 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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!The OpportunityWSDOT Public Transportation Division (PTD) is seeking someone with a passion for equity, inclusion, and access to public transportation for all citizens across the state to fill a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 position in Olympia, WA. The PTD develops and delivers distinctive programs, high-quality services, and innovative approaches that support an integrated, multimodal, and sustainable transportation system exceeding customers' and partners' expectations. This position supports these objectives by performing outreach, process development, planning and programming of the different projects funded under the public transportation grant programs. This position serves as a primary point of contact for staff and grantees statewide on the development, and prioritization of the Grants Management System (GMS) needs, and brings over $500 million in operating and capital projects into GMS. Also, the position is the primary contact for questions related to obligation of federal apportionments for each grant program and has a primary role in programming and authorization of Federal Transit Administration's funds for the various public transportation grant programs. The position has decision-making authority when identifying system and programming needs. The position will lead policy making and enforcement with system users. In this role, the incumbent will be responsible for developing processes that increase efficiency and advance user compliance.What to ExpectAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Programming and Grants Planner will:
Serve as the first point of contact on issues related to enhancements, workflows, policies, training, planning and implementation of new ideas and initiatives within the GMS.
Make decisions and define the best path to better serve the public transportation providers and address their needs.
Lead communication efforts with internal and external stakeholders, reach out to grantees statewide and ask for their feedback and input.
Serve as the first point of contact for internal staff, other divisions within WSDOT, and external stakeholders on issues related to enhancements, workflows, policies, training, planning, and implementation of new ideas and initiatives within the GMS.
Work with the different teams within PTD to integrate and reconcile ideas, projects, and processes leading the efforts of drafting new procedures and providing technical assistance/ guidance to the grantees.
Lead communications, programming, and obligation of new federal apportionments in the Federal Transit Award Management System (TrAMS). Ensure timely submittal of federal applications and reports.
Serve as the decision maker and lead on the prioritization and execution of the different programming needs of operating and capital projects in GMS and the programming of federal grants in the federal system.
Ensure compliance with federal and state policies when programming projects and implementing new grant programs.
Lead policy making and enforcement aspects related to system use and users' regular/ongoing interaction with the system.
Serve as the division's technical expert when programming grants and projects within GMS during the different phases of grants/projects development and delivery.
QualificationsTo be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
Transportation and Planning Knowledge: Understanding and experience with transportation systems, environmental and land use planning, engineering, public administration, or related fields relevant to transportation planning and project delivery.
Public Transportation: Familiarity and experience with the public transportation industry and its programs, policies, and practices.
Grants Management: Proficiency in managing grants, including analyzing, evaluating, and resolving issues and problems.
Analysis and Problem Solving: Ability to evaluate complex issues, identify solutions, and provide sound recommendations.
Communication and Collaboration: Demonstrated strong skills in verbal, written, and visual communication, including the ability to simplify complex information, adapt messages to diverse audiences, and use negotiation and conflict resolution techniques.
Respect and Equity: Demonstrated ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Public Transportation Expertise: Experience with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and agency policies related to public transportation, including governance, funding, planning, transit operations, special needs transportation, transportation demand management, legislative relations, and multimodal system analysis.
Grant Processes and Compliance: Familiarity with state and federal public transportation grant processes, requirements, and regulations.
Strategic Planning and Leadership: Ability to think strategically, lead projects and planning efforts, oversee system enhancements, and manage new initiatives.
Analysis and Problem Solving: Advanced skills in analyzing complex issues, interpreting technical information, evaluating alternatives, and applying solutions that balance goals, resources, and risks.
Accountability and Professionalism: Ability to work independently, meet commitments, adapt to change, manage competing priorities under pressure, and maintain high standards of reliability and professionalism.
Customer Service: Skill in addressing customer questions and concerns, resolving issues efficiently, and maintaining a professional and approachable presence.
Interpersonal Relationship Development: Ability to navigate organizational structures, build relationships across agencies and stakeholders, and influence outcomes through collaboration and diplomacy.
Technology Proficiency: Advanced computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Visio, and other tools to develop reports, presentations, and data visualizations. Experience overseeing and maintaining grant management systems.
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.Important Notes
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per 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
. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code. * WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit, please visitWhy 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 earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to
for more information.Check out this video to learn more:How to ApplyApplications 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. 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 UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-04964 in the subject line.
