Program Specialist 4 - Washington State Ferries

The Program Specialist 4 will coordinate training, mentorship, and vessel experience in alignment with U.S. Coast Guard standards while collaborating with internal teams and external partners.

• Lead the design and implementation of WSF – specific MAPS training frameworks.
• Establish leadership development programs.
• Develop and administer policies, procedures, and program standards.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on maritime apprenticeship program design.
• Coordinate logistics, documentation, and scheduling of pilotage trips for WSF employees.
• Maintain detailed pilotage progress records and provide regular status reports to fleet and training leadership.
• Manage strategic placement of MAPS students across WSF vessels to maximize exposure to core operations and compliance with training milestones.
• Audit and monitor student progress, including sea-time accrual, payroll, stipend disbursement, and USCG-mandated training.
• Provide mentorship and onboard support, ensuring student engagement, safety, and performance align with program goals.
• 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.

• Program Coordination & Development – Demonstrated experience in workforce development, recruitment, apprenticeships, mentoring, or training program management.
• Training & Curriculum Development – Skill in translating operational and regulatory needs into training, mentoring, and apprenticeship frameworks, including policy and procedure development.
• Stakeholder engagement & Leadership – Proven ability to collaborate across teams and engage internal/external partners to drive program success.
• Program Compliance & Reporting – Experience in reporting, documentation, and credentialing record management.
• Talent Evaluation & Placement – Experience assessing candidates for workforce programs, including placement in apprenticeships or mentorships.

• Health insurance
• Paid leave
• Tuition Assistance
• Comprehensive benefits package

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence.