Quality Assurance & Quality Improvement Lead - Marine Operations
Apply NowCompany: State of Washington
Location: Seattle, WA 98115
Description:
Salary : $88,741.00 - $119,387.00 Annually
Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Job Number: 25DOT-WSF-90993c
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Eastern Region
Opening Date: 03/04/2025
Closing Date: 3/18/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Washington State Ferry (WSF) system is essential to Washington's transportation network, linking communities on both sides of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. There are over nearly 400 sailings each day on nine ferry routes. WSF transports nearly 19 million passengers a year and has more than 1,900 employees. Employees perform a variety of duties on vessels, in terminals, at the maintenance facility, and at the Seattle headquarters.
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a non-permanent Quality Assurance & Quality Improvement (QA&QI) Lead - Marine Operations is an interdisciplinary technical and regulatory specialist responsible for overseeing quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives across deck and engine room operations, as well as vessel and vessel equipment. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards and the organization's Safety Management System (SMS), driving enhancements in safety, efficiency, and overall operational quality. The QA&QI Lead is pivotal in fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, supporting WSF's mission to deliver exceptional service through systematic audits, training, and process optimization.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Quality Assurance & Quality Improvement Lead will:
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Important Notes
Why WSDOT
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 your 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:
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 for 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
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Renee Mason, at renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-WSF-90993c 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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022
01
Which statement best describes your completed educational background?
02
Please list your area of study or degree.
03
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience in quality assurance, auditing, or continuous improvement.
04
Please describe your experience in quality assurance, auditing, or continuous improvement, and highlight your experience within the maritime industry.
05
Do you have an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification?
06
Please select the certifications that you possess. (select all that apply)
07
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
08
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Job Number: 25DOT-WSF-90993c
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Eastern Region
Opening Date: 03/04/2025
Closing Date: 3/18/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Washington State Ferry (WSF) system is essential to Washington's transportation network, linking communities on both sides of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. There are over nearly 400 sailings each day on nine ferry routes. WSF transports nearly 19 million passengers a year and has more than 1,900 employees. Employees perform a variety of duties on vessels, in terminals, at the maintenance facility, and at the Seattle headquarters.
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a non-permanent Quality Assurance & Quality Improvement (QA&QI) Lead - Marine Operations is an interdisciplinary technical and regulatory specialist responsible for overseeing quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives across deck and engine room operations, as well as vessel and vessel equipment. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards and the organization's Safety Management System (SMS), driving enhancements in safety, efficiency, and overall operational quality. The QA&QI Lead is pivotal in fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, supporting WSF's mission to deliver exceptional service through systematic audits, training, and process optimization.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Quality Assurance & Quality Improvement Lead will:
- Serve as a technical expert for marine regulatory compliance.
- Develop and implement internal audit programs for deck operations, vessel engine rooms, vessels, and vessel equipment.
- Analyze audit findings and identify areas for improvement and recommend corrective and preventative actions.
- Maintain required and applicable training and certifications as a lead auditor.
- Manage WSF compliance with the Vessel General Permit including required reporting, document development, and training.
- Develop policies and procedures to prevent spills, such as transfer of hazardous materials and oil containers.
- Represent WSF interests on environmental protection and pollution prevention matters with federal, state and local resources and regulatory agencies.
- Oversee and improve solid waste management on vessels, and at facilities, including terminals, warehouses, shipyards, and headquarters.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Undergraduate degree in Environmental Sciences, Maritime Studies, Engineering, Quality Assurance, or a related field. (Related work experience, as described below, can substitute year-for-year for education experience.)
- Five (5) or more years of experience in quality assurance, auditing, or continuous improvement, preferably within the maritime industry.
- Experience in conducting internal audits and managing safety managements systems.
- Familiarity with maritime regulations and compliance standards, including ISM Code, SOLAS, and environmental standards.
- A combination of education and experience to meet the total is acceptable.
- ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification.
- Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification.
- Safety Management System (SMS) related certification is a plus.
- In-depth understanding of maritime regulations and safety management systems.
- Understanding of maritime operations and vessels.
- Familiarity with quality assurance methodologies and tools (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean).
- Knowledge of audit processes and compliance standards.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within teams.
- Capacity to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Ability to compose and publish reports, letters, and other documentation related to the jobs performed.
- Ability to complete assigned tasks on schedule.
- Ability to efficiently and effectively perform duties in high stress, demanding, and challenging situations.
- Proactive and results-oriented mindset.
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
- Willingness to travel to various operational sites, including shipyards and shoreside facilities, as needed for audits and inspections.
- Ability to work in diverse environments, including outdoor and industrial settings, and to comply with safety protocols and regulations.
- Capability to perform physical activities, such as climbing ladders or accessing confined spaces, as necessary during audits.
- Flexibility to be on-call for urgent quality assurance matters or incidents.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development and training to stay current with industry standards and best practices.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Master's degree in Environmental Sciences, Maritime Studies, Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field.
- Additional coursework in safety management or regulatory compliance.
- Seven (7) or more years of experience in quality assurance, auditing, or continuous improvement in the maritime industry.
- Proven track record in leading quality improvement projects and initiatives.
- Experience in vessel engine room operations, and with vessels and vessel equipment.
- Certified Quality Manager (CQM) or equivalent.
- Maritime safety certifications (e.g., STCW, ISM Code training).
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
- Advanced knowledge of international maritime regulations (e.g., SOLAS, MARPOL).
- Familiarity with risk management principles and methodologies.
- Advanced data analysis and statistical skills.
- Strong project management skills with experience in agile methodologies.
- Proficiency in quality management software and tools.
- Ability to mentor and develop team members in quality assurance practices.
- Strong facilitation and conflict-resolution skills.
- Capacity to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels.
- Strong commitment to ethical practices and integrity.
- Adaptive and flexible approach to change and challenges.
- Collaborative mindset with a focus on team success and empowerment.
Important Notes
- This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last 24 months.
- The salary listed includes the legislative-approved 5% salary premium for positions with an assigned duty station in King County.
- 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
Why WSDOT
- Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensuring that our staff experiences the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individual's lifestyle.
- Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum of 14 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 the choice of state retirement programs and much more. Go tofor 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 your 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 for 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
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Renee Mason, at renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-WSF-90993c 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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022
01
Which statement best describes your completed educational background?
- I have a Master's Degree or higher.
- I have a Bachelor's Degree.
- I have an Associates Degree.
- I have completed at least 2 years of college
- I have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- None of the above
02
Please list your area of study or degree.
03
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience in quality assurance, auditing, or continuous improvement.
- I have 9 years or more of this type of experience
- I have 8-9 years of this type of experience
- I have 7-8 years of this type of experience
- I have 6-7 years of this type of experience
- I have 4-5 years of this type of experience
- I have 3-4 years of this type of experience
- I have 2-3 years of this type of experience
- I have 1-2 years of this type of experience
- I have less than 1 year of this type of experience
- I do not have this experience
04
Please describe your experience in quality assurance, auditing, or continuous improvement, and highlight your experience within the maritime industry.
05
Do you have an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification?
- Yes
- No
06
Please select the certifications that you possess. (select all that apply)
- Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification
- Safety Management System (SMS) related certification.
- Certified Quality Manager (CQM) or equivalent
- STCW certification
- ISM Code Training
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
07
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- 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)
08
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question