Deputy Director of Marine Operations - Washington State Ferries

ABOUT THE ROLE Washington State Ferries, a division of WSDOT, is seeking a Deputy Director to serve as an integral member of the executive leadership team. This senior leadership role provides system-wide direction focused on workforce development, operational readiness, and reliable service delivery. The position plays a vital role in advancing safe, efficient, customer-focused ferry operations and ensuring dependable transportation service while promoting consistent application of policies, procedures, and operational standards. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Direct and monitor marine operations across terminals and vessels to support safe, reliable, and customer-focused service. - Develop and implement operational policies, SOPs, and service delivery strategies. - Ensure safety and regulatory compliance with the Safety Management System, USCG requirements, and state and federal regulations. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Growth Mindset: Commitment to learning, adapting, and improving operational practices. - Service-Oriented: Willingness to take action to meet the needs of customers, employees, and partners. - Operational Decision-Making: Ability to make timely, sound decisions in a complex, high-risk marine transportation environment. - Systems Thinking: Understanding of how vessel operations, terminal operations, crewing, maintenance, safety, and finance interconnect. - Policy Development and Implementation: Ability to develop, interpret, and implement policies that guide operations. - Workforce Development: Ability to assess staffing needs, support recruitment, and develop succession plans. - Labor Relations and Collaboration: Ability to build constructive relationships with labor partners and resolve grievances. - Team Leadership and Engagement: Ability to lead large, distributed teams across vessels, terminals, and operations centers. - Executive Communication: Ability to communicate complex operational issues clearly to executives, legislators, and the public. - Stakeholder Partnership: Ability to collaborate with internal and external partners and build trust across functions. - Budget Stewardship: Ability to manage operational budgets, monitor expenditures, and apply fiscal discipline. - Process Improvement and Change Management: Ability to identify inefficiencies, apply Lean principles, and lead change initiatives. - Safety Leadership: Ability to interpret safety data, support investigations, and reinforce a safety-first culture. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Card within 3 months of employment. - Preferred: Maritime or high-tempo operations experience in high-risk, 24/7 environments. - Preferred: Systems building and organizational modernization experience. - Preferred: Leadership development and team capability building skills. - Preferred: Continuous improvement and change leadership experience applying Lean or Six Sigma. - Preferred: Data literacy and operational analytics using tools like Excel, Power BI, or ERP systems. - Preferred: Hands-on operational leadership in field environments. - Preferred: Creative problem-solving and a get-to-yes mindset - WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system and is not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Submit an electronic application detailing relevant work experience for salary evaluation. 2. Applications and attached documents will be reviewed to assess qualifications and competencies. 3. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews based on their leadership skills and job-related competencies. HOW TO APPLY - Applications are accepted electronically until August 24, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific. - Attach a resume outlining your experience in reverse chronological order. - Attach a cover letter explaining your qualifications and viability for the role. - Enter contact details for at least three professional references in the References section of the online application. - For inquiries, contact the assigned Recruiter at renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov and reference 26DOT-WSF-9W137 in the subject line. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA - Department: Dept. of Transportation, Washington State Ferries Division - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-9W137 - Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid remote work options available. - Schedule: Flexible schedule options available to support work-life balance. May require extended hours during critical incidents. - Benefits: Comprehensive healthcare, state retirement programs, up to 25 paid vacation days per year, 12 paid holidays, and tuition assistance. - Employer: State of Washington, Equal Opportunity Employer.