Maintenance and Operations Assistant Superintendent (WMS2)

State of Washington

Mount Vernon (WA)

Hybrid

USD 100,000 - 150,000

Full time

2 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Flexible/hybrid remote work options

Competitive benefits package

Paid holidays and vacation leave

Job summary

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a Maintenance and Operations Assistant Superintendent to lead Area 2 maintenance operations across Skagit, Island, Snohomish, and eastern Whatcom counties. You will oversee planning, budgeting, policy implementation, staff development, and operational performance to keep highways safe and efficient.

The role requires strategic leadership, coordination with partners, and the ability to respond to emergencies and severe weather.

Qualifications

Maintenance and Operations Knowledge: knowledge of highway maintenance operations, including roadway, right-of-way, incident response, signage, and rest area maintenance.
Leadership and Supervision: Demonstrated ability to supervise employees and coordinate daily maintenance operations.
Policy, Regulatory, and Personnel Knowledge: Working knowledge of policies, procedures, personnel practices, and applicable labor agreements.
Operational Planning and Coordination: Experience coordinating multiple maintenance activities, prioritizing competing work demands, and supporting implementation of operational plans.
Resource and Budget Administration: Experience monitoring and administering assigned budgets and effectively coordinating personnel, equipment, materials, and other resources to accomplish operational objectives.
Emergency Response and Operational Support: Ability to coordinate emergency response activities, including snow and ice operations, and make sound operational decisions in rapidly changing conditions.
Communication and Working Relationships: Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, and establish productive working relationships with employees, customers, partner agencies, and other stakeholders.
Technology and Operational Systems: Experience using maintenance management systems, communication tools, and other technology to support field operations, documentation, and decision-making.
Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, direction, and oversight of Area 2 maintenance operations, ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective maintenance and preservation of the state highway system.
Plan and coordinate emergency preparedness and response for incidents such as severe weather, natural disasters, collisions, and roadway closures while partnering with emergency management agencies and the Washington State Patrol.
Plan and manage long- and short-term programs, budgets, capital investments, fleet needs, and funding requests, including an assigned portion of a $14.57 million biennial budget.
Oversee environmental compliance, office operations, and administrative functions, ensuring adherence to agency policies, financial controls, and environmental stewardship requirements.
Develop, solicit bids for, award, and administer contracts for region maintenance and preservation projects, asphalt and aggregate procurement, equipment rentals and miscellaneous goods and services.
Collaborate with internal teams, contractors, local jurisdictions, partner agencies, and the public to coordinate maintenance activities, support highway construction projects, and represent WSDOT’s maintenance interests.
Monitor operational performance, expenditures, safety metrics, and public concerns, and implement improvements that enhance maintenance effectiveness, employee safety, and customer service.
Supervise and develop staff by coaching, mentoring, and training employees while promoting a safe and inclusive workplace.

Skills

Highway maintenance operations

Leadership and supervision

Policy and regulatory knowledge

Operational planning and coordination

Budget administration

Emergency response capabilities

Communication skills

Team development

Tools

Maintenance management software

Job 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!

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 is currently seeking a Maintenance and Operations Assistant Superintendent to lead the operation, maintenance, repair, and preservation of critical highway infrastructure throughout Area 2 of Northwest Region. Area 2 serves Skagit, Island, Snohomish and eastern Whatcom counties and is situated in a critical transportation corridor. This position provides strategic leadership for maintenance programs, overseeing planning, budgeting, policy implementation, staff development, and operational performance to ensure the efficient movement of people and commerce. The role also coordinates responses to emergencies, severe weather, natural disasters, and construction impacts while administering key programs such as pavement management, environmental compliance, vegetation management, and snow and ice control. As a leader, this position fosters a respectful, inclusive workplace that reflects WSDOT’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while supporting the agency’s mission to improve communities and economic vitality.

What To Expect

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

Lead the planning, direction, and oversight of Area 2 maintenance operations, ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective maintenance and preservation of the state highway system.
Plan and coordinate emergency preparedness and response for incidents such as severe weather, natural disasters, collisions, and roadway closures while partnering with emergency management agencies and the Washington State Patrol.
Plan and manage long- and short-term programs, budgets, capital investments, fleet needs, and funding requests, including an assigned portion of a $14.57 million biennial budget.
Oversee environmental compliance, office operations, and administrative functions, ensuring adherence to agency policies, financial controls, and environmental stewardship requirements.
Develop, solicit bids for, award, and administer contracts for region maintenance and preservation projects, asphalt and aggregate procurement, equipment rentals and miscellaneous goods and services.
Collaborate with internal teams, contractors, local jurisdictions, partner agencies, and the public to coordinate maintenance activities, support highway construction projects, and represent WSDOT’s maintenance interests.
Monitor operational performance, expenditures, safety metrics, and public concerns, and implement improvements that enhance maintenance effectiveness, employee safety, and customer service.
Supervise and develop staff by coaching, mentoring, and training employees while promoting a safe and inclusive workplace.

Qualifications

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

Maintenance and Operations Knowledge: Knowledge of highway maintenance operations, including roadway, right-of-way, incident response, signage, and rest area maintenance. Working knowledge of engineering and construction principles sufficient to support maintenance and operational activities.
Leadership and Supervision: Demonstrated ability to supervise employees and coordinate daily maintenance operations.
Policy, Regulatory, and Personnel Knowledge: Working knowledge of policies, procedures, personnel practices, and applicable labor agreements.
Operational Planning and Coordination: Experience coordinating multiple maintenance activities, prioritizing competing work demands, and supporting implementation of operational plans and maintenance programs.
Resource and Budget Administration: Experience monitoring and administering assigned budgets and effectively coordinating personnel, equipment, materials, and other resources to accomplish operational objectives.
Emergency Response and Operational Support: Ability to coordinate emergency response activities, including snow and ice operations, and make sound operational decisions in rapidly changing conditions.
Communication and Working Relationships: Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, and establish productive working relationships with employees, customers, partner agencies, and other stakeholders.
Technology and Operational Systems: Experience using maintenance management systems, communication tools, and other technology to support field operations, documentation, and decision-making.
Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The Following Qualifications Are Also Required

A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
Completion of National Incident Management System (NIMS) ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 certifications.
Ability to respond to non-scheduled emergencies, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Available for call and consultation at all hours outside of normal work schedule.
Ability to travel locally to perform field visits/inspections and occasionally travel regionally and statewide to attend meetings/ conferences or participate in training.
Ability to traverse rough, uneven, or steep terrain, assess confined spaces, and work at heights above 25 feet over land or water when conducting field visits/inspections.

It Is Preferred That Qualified Candidates Also Demonstrate

Agency-Specific Experience: Experience applying WSDOT maintenance practices, policies, and procedures in an operational environment.
Regulatory and Environmental Knowledge: Experience applying federal, state, and local regulations, including environmental requirements, to transportation maintenance activities.
Budget Administration Experience: Experience assisting with the development, monitoring, or administration of maintenance or operational budgets.
Emergency Management Experience: Experience coordinating emergency response activities and supporting incident management, including snow and ice operations.
Project and Contract Coordination: Experience coordinating maintenance contracts, operational projects, or interagency work efforts.
Licensure: A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A without air brake restrictions with “N” endorsement.

Important Notes

This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
This position directs and manages four Highway Maintenance Supervisors, one Highway Maintenance 4, one Fiscal Specialist Supervisor, and 51 FTEs.
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. 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.

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at olivia.dietrich@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT‑NWR‑1W082e 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. That's 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 non‑overtime 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‑rated 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 non‑overtime 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‑rated 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

Please select the response that best describes your experience with highway maintenance operations.

Advanced – I have managed comprehensive highway maintenance programs, including roadway preservation, incident response, signage, right-of-way, and operational planning across a maintenance area or region.
Intermediate – I have planned, coordinated, or supervised maintenance activities involving roadways, right-of-way, traffic control devices, incident response, or related infrastructure.
Basic – I have assisted with highway maintenance activities or operations.
Limited or no experience

Please describe your experience with highway maintenance operations. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

Please select the response that best describes your experience planning and coordinating maintenance operations.

Advanced – I have developed and implemented short- and long-term operational plans, prioritizing competing organizational objectives, and directed complex maintenance programs.
Intermediate – I have planned and prioritized multiple maintenance activities while balancing staffing, equipment, and operational needs.
Basic – I have assisted with scheduling work assignments or coordinating routine maintenance activities.
Limited or no experience

Please describe your experience with planning and coordinating maintenance operations. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

Please select the response that best describes your experience administering budgets and operational resources.

Advanced – I have developed, administered, and monitored complex operating budgets and made strategic decisions regarding staffing, equipment, materials, and other resources.
Intermediate – I have managed a program or work unit budget and coordinated personnel, equipment, and materials to accomplish operational goals.
Basic – I have monitored expenditures or tracked resource usage.
Limited or no experience

Please describe your experience with administering budgets and operational resources. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

Please select the response that best describes your experience coordinating emergency response operations.

Advanced – I have directed emergency response operations, made critical operational decisions under rapidly changing conditions, and coordinated with law enforcement, emergency management, and partner agencies.
Intermediate – I have coordinated field response activities during emergencies, including severe weather, roadway incidents, or other operational events.
Basic – I have participated in emergency response or snow and ice operations as a member of a response team.
Limited or no experience

Please select the response that best describes your experience using maintenance management systems and operational technology.

Advanced – I use maintenance management systems and operational technology to analyze performance, allocate resources, monitor program effectiveness, and support operational decision-making.
Intermediate – I regularly use maintenance management systems, work management software, or communication tools to support field operations and reporting.
Basic – I have used basic computer applications or mobile devices to document work activities.
Limited or no experience

Please select the response that best describes your leadership and supervisory experience.

Advanced – I have managed supervisors or multiple work units and have experience with workforce planning, performance management, and organizational leadership.
Intermediate – I have directly supervised employees, assigned work, monitored performance, and provided coaching and development.
Basic – I have served as a lead worker or provided informal guidance to others.
Limited or no experience

Describe your experience with applying agency/company policies, personnel practices, and labor agreements. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

Select the National Incident Management System (NIMS) Incident Command System (ICS) certification(s) you have completed. (Please select all that apply).

ICS 100
ICS 200
ICS 700
ICS 800
None of the above

Do you currently possess a valid driver’s license?

What type of Commercial Driver License (CDL) do you currently possess?

Class A CDL
Class B CDL
CDL Learners Permit
None of the above

If you have a current CDL, please list the Class and any other endorsements and/or restrictions. If you do not have a CDL, please enter N/A.

Are you able and willing to respond to non-scheduled emergencies, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed?

Are you able and willing to be available for call and consultation at all hours outside of the normal work schedule?

Are you able and willing to travel locally to conduct field visits/inspections and occasionally travel regionally and statewide to attend meetings/conferences or participate in training?

Are you able and willing to traverse rough, uneven, or steep terrain, assess confined spaces, and work at heights above 25 feet over land or water when conducting field visits/inspections?

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?