Job Details

Salary : $66,108.00 - $95,184.00 Annually
Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-A0241n
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Washington State Ferries
Opening Date: 03/02/2026
Closing Date: 3/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
The first consideration and/or preference is with current Washington State Ferries OPEIU members

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 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!

Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washington's transportation network. Every year, we carry nearly 20 million passengers across Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on more than 400 sailings a day. Our dedicated teams with over 2,100 people work together to serve our communities and shape the future of ferry travel.
The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a service-driven non-permanent Crew Dispatcher to support WSF's commitment to Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate by ensuring the continuous, safe, and efficient delivery of ferry service through accurate personnel dispatch and operational coordination. Working under general direction, this role processes employee relief requests, assigns qualified personnel to vessels, and manages daily and long-term staffing coverage to meet minimum crewing and regulatory requirements while maintaining accurate employee records. The Dispatcher also coordinates essential vessel logistics (including fuel, lube oil, bilge pump, and other critical deliveries), helping prevent service disruptions or delays through timely, accurate decisions, effective problem-solving, and professional communication that builds trust and supports a respectful, responsive workplace.

As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system - guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow Navigate- and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People - there's never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.
What to Expect

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

• Dispatch deck and engine room personnel in compliance with ISM, WSF policy, USCG requirements, and labor agreements.
• Receive relief requests; apply rules/seniority/overtime lists; contact personnel; document and enter assignments in the WSF Dispatching System.
• Assign qualified relief personnel and coordinate coverage for sea trials, vessel moves, inspections, training, and other operational needs.
• Maintain communication with operations, management, and vessel crews; support response to unexpected events/emergencies and escalate as needed.
• Maintain, enter, audit employee documentation/credentials; coordinate removal from vessels when documentation is not current; update dispatch team.
• Forecast and coordinate fuel, lube oil, bilge pump, and other operational deliveries; communicate timelines; maintain related records.
• Create on-call lists and long-term relief schedules; forecast labor needs; track daily schedules and paid/unpaid leave.
• Support labor agreement processes/projects (seniority lists, vacation schedules, bids/bumping) and assist Dispatch Coordinators as needed.
• Uphold WSF's strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF's culture through leadership actions.

Qualifications

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

• Operational and Dispatch Experience
  • Experience applying knowledge and skills gained through experience in an office, maritime, or operational environment to accurately receive, prioritize, and process dispatch requests; assign qualified personnel to vessels in compliance with applicable rules, regulations, and crewing requirements.
• Communication
  • Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills; effectively conveys work assignment information, scheduling details, and operational updates to vessel personnel, management, and external vendors using phone, email, and radio.
• Technology and Information Management
  • Experience using office productivity and workforce management software tools to accurately enter, track, and audit personnel records, schedules, and operational data; learns and applies new or specialized technology systems as required by the position.
• Critical Thinking and Regulatory Compliance
  • Research, interpret, and apply contract language, USCG regulations, collective bargaining agreement provisions, and other regulatory requirements accurately and consistently to dispatch decisions and personnel management actions.
• Composure and Professionalism
  • Maintains composure, sound judgment, and confidentiality in fast-paced, high-stress, and time-sensitive operational environments; manages competing priorities and urgent requests without compromising accuracy or professionalism.
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
  • Contributes to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect, equal opportunity, and inclusion; demonstrates equitable and consistent treatment of all personnel in dispatch, scheduling, and operational interactions.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Industry and Domain Knowledge
  • Applies knowledge of maritime or transportation industry operations, terminology, and regulatory context to support effective and compliant dispatch activities.
• Labor Relations and Contract Interpretation
  • Interprets and applies collective bargaining agreement provisions accurately in scheduling, dispatch decisions, seniority determinations, and bid processes; identifies and resolves contract-related conflicts with consistency and fairness.
• Scheduling and Workforce Planning
  • Plans, schedules, and dispatches employees to ensure appropriate crewing coverage for operational needs; anticipates staffing gaps, forecasts labor requirements, and manages competing scheduling priorities with strong time management and organizational skills.

Important Notes

• The first consideration and/or preference is with current Washington State Ferries OPEIU members
• This position is based in Seattle, Washington, with a designated duty station in Seattle. While the role may be eligible for telework flexibility consistent with operational needs, business requirements, and management approval, the primary work location remains Seattle and may require full-time, on-site presence.
• 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.
• This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last 12 months.
• 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

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.
• 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 for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:
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 Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-A0241n 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 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 (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 (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 , 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

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

WSF - Are you currently an OPEIU member with Washington State Ferries?

• Yes
• No

02

Briefly describe your experience receiving and processing dispatch or staffing requests. Include the environment in which you worked, the volume of requests handled, and your level of responsibility for assigning personnel.
03

Which option best describes your experience receiving, prioritizing, and processing dispatch or operational staffing requests in an office, maritime, or transportation environment?

• I have independently coordinated high-volume staffing or dispatch requests, evaluated competing operational priorities, and assigned personnel in compliance with crewing requirements, labor agreements, policies, or regulatory requirements.
• I have processed staffing or dispatch requests, prioritized assignments, and assigned personnel according to established procedures, policies, or operational guidelines.
• I have supported staffing, dispatch, or scheduling decisions, including receiving requests, assisting with prioritization, and helping coordinate personnel assignments under established procedures.
• I have worked in an operational or administrative environment with exposure to staffing coordination, scheduling, or prioritization but have not been responsible for assigning personnel.
• I do not have experience coordinating, prioritizing, or assigning personnel for operational staffing or dispatch needs.

04

Which option best describes your experience communicating work assignments, scheduling updates, or operational information to employees or stakeholders?

• I regularly communicate complex scheduling or operational information to multiple stakeholders (e.g., field staff, management, vendors) via phone, email, and radio, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
• I frequently communicate work assignments or schedule updates to staff using phone and email.
• I occasionally communicate scheduling or operational information in a professional setting.
• I have limited experience communicating work-related assignments or operational updates.
• I do not have experience communicating work assignments or operational information.

05

List the workforce management, scheduling, or database systems you have used. Describe your level of proficiency and how you ensured accuracy when entering or auditing personnel or operational data.
06

Which option best describes your experience using workforce management or office software systems to enter, track, and audit personnel or operational data?

• I independently use multiple systems (e.g., workforce management, scheduling software, databases, Excel) to track, audit, and verify personnel records and operational data for accuracy and compliance
• I regularly use scheduling or database systems to enter and maintain personnel or operational information.
• I have basic experience entering and retrieving data using office software tools.
• I have limited exposure to office software systems.
• I do not have experience using workforce or office management software.

07

Describe your experience interpreting and applying regulations, policies, or collective bargaining agreement provisions to scheduling, dispatch, or personnel decisions. Include specific examples of the types of rules or contracts you applied.
08

Which option best describes your experience interpreting and applying regulations, policies, or contract language to make operational decisions?

• I independently research, interpret, and apply regulatory requirements and contract language (e.g., USCG rules, labor agreements, policies) to make compliant staffing or operational decisions.
• I apply established policies and procedures to operational decisions and occasionally interpret policy language.
• I follow clearly defined procedures but do not interpret regulatory or contract language.
• I have limited experience applying policies or regulations in decision-making.
• I do not have experience applying policies or regulations to operational decisions.

09

Which option best describes your experience working in a fast-paced, time-sensitive operational environment?

• I routinely manage urgent, high-impact operational issues involving competing priorities while maintaining professionalism, confidentiality, and accuracy.
• I regularly work in fast-paced environments requiring prioritization and sound judgment.
• I occasionally manage competing priorities in a structured work environment.
• I have limited experience in time-sensitive operational settings.
• I have not worked in a fast-paced or high-pressure environment.

10

Which option best describes your experience ensuring equitable and consistent treatment of employees in scheduling or operational decisions?

• I consistently apply policies, seniority rules, and scheduling practices equitably and have addressed concerns to ensure fair and consistent treatment.
• I apply established procedures consistently to ensure equal treatment in assignments or scheduling.
• I follow supervisory guidance to ensure fair treatment of employees.
• I have limited experience applying equity principles in operational decisions.
• I do not have experience in employee scheduling or assignment decisions.

11

Which option best describes your knowledge of maritime or transportation industry operations and terminology?

• I have direct experience working in a maritime or transportation operational environment and understand industry terminology, regulatory context, and crewing practices.
• I have worked in a transportation or logistics environment and understand basic industry terminology.
• I have general knowledge of maritime or transportation operations.
• I have limited familiarity with maritime or transportation terminology.
• I do not have knowledge of maritime or transportation operations.

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