Controller

Description

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 Controller, Senior Manager of Accounting Services. This position is directly responsible for leading the Accounting Services Department in protecting and enhancing the assets and revenues while minimizing the expenses and liabilities by organizing and directing the operations of WSF’s Centralized Accounting Services Purchasing, Revenue Control, and Administrative Services.

As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system — guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow, and Navigate— and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People — there’s never been a more meaningful time to join us.

What to Expect

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

Plan coordinate and conducts WSF wide financial systems training programs to educate department management and employees on accounting and financial policies and procedures.

Manage month-end, fiscal year-end and biennium-end revenue and expense reviews.

Ensure proper internal controls are in place over the purchasing, accounts payable, business travel.

Approval all P-Card (credit card) transactions for the division.

Ensure compliance with all purchases including up to large, complex multimillion dollar parts for WSF’s vessels.

Provide leadership and strategic direction to managers supervising the functional areas of the Accounting Services Department.

Support and records for internal audits, State Sudit Office audits, FTA’s Triennial Review, and other Federal Audits/Reviews.

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:

Bachelor’s degree with emphasis in accounting OR four (4) years of practical work experience related to this position may substitute for this educational requirement.

Minimum of eight (8) years of related experience in a leadership position, leading teams in accounting or purchasing.

Minimum of five (5) years of related experience managing a program and employees of an equivalent size.

Minimum of eight (8) years applying expert level knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and rules promulgated by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB).

Expert understanding of accounting theory and practice and how it relates to state and federal laws/regulations.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

Ten (10) plus years of professional experience managing an accounting organization as well as demonstrated knowledge of procurement functions are preferred.

Certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Managerial Accountant (CMA).

Advanced knowledge of procurement and supply chain management principles, methods and terminology.

Knowledge of federal and state contracting, purchasing and materials management statutes, rules, regulations, procedures and practices.

Exceptional analytical and diagnostic skills especially in finance.

Excellent project management skills to include ability to work with a diverse group.

Ability to present, communicate and consult on complex internal control issues, asset management and accounting information effectively to diverse groups of stakeholders.

Demonstrated success in leadership and personnel management including performance management and just cause discipline.

Exceptional understanding and experience using complex financial systems.

Important Notes

This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.

The salary range listed includes the 3% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2025.

The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions 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 Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 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 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 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

Contact UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-WSF-9W022 in the subject line.