Advanced Training Programs Manager

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 20000 lane miles of state highway and 4100 bridges WSDOT manages the worlds longest floating bridge leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan holds the record for the worlds widest tunneling project and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washingtons 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 2100 people work together to serve our communities and shape the future of ferry travel.

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking an Advanced Training Program Manager. The Advanced Training Programs Manager (ATPM) leads the strategic development and oversight of Washington State Ferries (WSF) two critical succession planning initiatives: the AB to Mate Program and the Internal Pilotage Program. This position ensures a sustainable credentialed pipeline of Licensed Deck Officersvital to the safe and reliable operation of the ferry system statewide. The ATPM is responsible for the long-range design implementation and alignment of these programs with fleet staffing projections regulatory standards and agency-wide priorities. With authority over program outcomes budget planning compliance and stakeholder coordination the ATPM plays a pivotal role in safeguarding WSFs workforce continuity and maritime safety.

As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system guided by our core valuesServe Respect Trust Grow and Navigate and bold strategic prioritiesService Excellence Improved Communication and Empowered People theres never been a more meaningful time to join us.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role you/the Advanced Training Programs Manger will:

• Lead and direct the AB to Mate and Internal Pilotage Programs/
• Exercise independent authority over multi-year planning curriculum development and regulatory compliance.
• integrate program operations with agency-wide staffing and service objectives.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives.
• Mentor and guide participants through every stage of development.
• Serve as WSFs subject matter expert (SME) on mariner credentialing and pilotage standards.
• Maintain full programmatic accountability for compliance performance and workforce outcomes.
• Uphold WSFs strategic priorities (Service Excellence Improved Communication and Empowered People) and values (Serve Grow Trust Respect and Navigate) ensuring they are embedded in WSFs culture through leadership actions.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity the following are required:

• Credentialing Eligibility:Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within 60 days of hire.
• Regulatory Compliance Knowledge:Demonstrated understanding and application of U.S. Coast Guard credentialing requirements and maritime regulations (e.g. CFR).
• Program and Curriculum Management:Proven experience designing managing and evaluating workforce development or training programs including curriculum development and scheduling.
• Cross-Functional Leadership:Experience leading multi-departmental initiatives with diverse stakeholders in a unionized or complex operational environment.
• Strategic and Financial Planning:Strong skills in program budgeting contract/vendor management and long-term resource planning.
• Data-Informed Decision Making:Proficient in using performance metrics and data analysis to drive strategic planning and program improvements.
• Stakeholder Communication and Engagement:Effective communicator with experience engaging labor organizations executive leadership and diverse workforce populations.
• Independent Judgment and Accountability:Demonstrated ability to operate independently with discretion sound judgment and accountability.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Bachelors degree or higher in maritime Studies Public Administration Organizational Development or a related field.
• Credentialed as a Licensed Deck Officer with WSF or experience serving in a maritime operations role with direct understanding of mariner training and credentialing pathways.
• Significant experience (Seven years or more) managing workforce development initiatives training programs or maritime licensing processes in a regulatory contest.
• Experience developing and executing succession planning strategies or internal talent pipelines with a large unionized agency or transportation system.
• Familiarity with the Washington State Ferries system or comparable public sector maritime operations including collective bargaining environments and operational logistics.
• Experience working with external training vendors maritime academies or regulatory partners to deliver structured certification or credentialing programs.

Important Notes

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County. As well as the general wage increase for all state employees on July 1 2025.
• In addition to the 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 applicableCollective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found inChapter 357-28of 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

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 mayearn 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.
• PlanFor 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 toState Benefitsfor 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 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 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

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