Marine Electrician - Washington State Ferries
State of Washington, Olympia, WA, United States
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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, 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.
Opportunity WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking a skilled Marine Electrician to support the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility and help keep the nation’s largest ferry system operating safely and reliably. This position plays a critical role in maintaining and restoring vessel and terminal electrical systems that are essential to daily ferry service. Through expert troubleshooting, installations, and repairs of advanced marine equipment and control systems, this role helps minimize downtime and supports dependable service for the traveling public. The successful candidate will contribute directly to WSF’s mission by ensuring vessels and facilities remain safe, efficient, and ready to serve communities across Washington.
As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system — guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow, Navigate— and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People — there’s never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.
What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Marine Electrician will:
Troubleshoot and repair electrical issues on vessels and terminals using diagnostic tools, drawings, blueprints, technical documents, and AC/DC theory.
Diagnose and repair AC/DC systems up to 4160 VAC and 900 VDC, including propulsion, steering, lighting, power distribution, alarms, communications, surveillance, cathodic protection, and battery systems.
Troubleshoot and maintain fiber optic systems, PLCs, software-controlled electronics, HMIs, motors, generators, motor controls, and communicators.
Perform preventative maintenance for vessels and terminals, including insulation resistance testing and following MPC cards for critical systems.
Clean and fusion splice fiber optic systems.
Inspect and maintain electrical motors and DC batteries.
Complete infrared scanning of electrical equipment.
Construct new electrical systems by installing distribution equipment, relay/PLC controls, transformers, load centers, circuit breakers, cabling, and rigid/EMT conduit.
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:
Marine Electrical Trade Qualification
Completion of a recognized marine electrician apprenticeship, journey-level marine electrician status, four years of marine electrical experience, or completion of an accredited vocational electrical program.
Demonstrated journey-level proficiency performing marine or industrial electrical work.
Electrical Systems Installation, Troubleshooting & Repair
Demonstrated ability to install, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair AC/DC electrical systems up to 4160 VAC and 900 VDC.
Experience with propulsion, steering, lighting, power distribution, alarms/monitoring, communications, surveillance, cathodic protection, and integrated battery systems.
Specialized Controls & Equipment Maintenance
Experience installing, maintaining, or repairing PLCs, software-controlled electronics, HMIs, fiber optic systems, AC motors/controls, AC generators, and large DC motors.
Experience with motor re-brushing, commutator repair, and testing of large DC motors or generators.
Electrical Diagnostics & Technical Analysis
Demonstrated knowledge of AC/DC theory and electrical troubleshooting principles.
Experience using electronic diagnostic and testing equipment to identify faults and restore system performance.
Technical Reading & Documentation Interpretation
Ability to read, interpret, and apply blueprints, schematics, drawings, sketches, technical manuals, and work instructions.
Ability to execute work accurately from plans, specifications, and technical documents.
Problem Solving & Independent Judgment
Demonstrated ability to analyze issues, develop solutions, and implement corrective actions within established policies and procedures.
Ability to exercise sound independent judgment in routine and emergent maintenance situations.
Work Planning, Prioritization & Time Management
Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
Experience balancing planned maintenance, troubleshooting, and emergency response work.
Teamwork & Communication
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and maintain positive working relationships with internal and external partners.
Safety, Compliance & Operational Readiness
Ability to meet respiratory protection requirements, including medical questionnaire, annual fit testing, and respirator use when required.
Ability to pass required pre-employment and random DOT drug testing.
May be subject to pre-employment electrical diagnostic/troubleshooting assessment.
Licensing, Credentials & Physical Requirements
Valid Washington State Driver License.
Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within 90 days of hire and maintain thereafter.
Ability to frequently lift/push/pull/carry up to 35 lbs. and occasionally up to 50 lbs.
Preferred It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Generator Systems Expertise
Experience maintaining, troubleshooting, or repairing generators over 200 kW and associated controls equipment.
PLC Certifications / Advanced Controls Knowledge
Certifications or formal training in Siemens, Allen Bradley, ABB, or similar PLC platforms.
Experience programming, diagnostics, or controls integration.
Drafting & Design Software
Experience using AutoCAD or equivalent drafting software to interpret or create electrical layouts and schematics.
Terminal Electrical Licensing
Current Washington State Labor & Industries EL01 Journey Level electrical license.
Marine / Transportation Infrastructure Experience
Experience supporting ferry systems, shipyards, marine facilities, terminals, or other mission-critical transportation infrastructure.
Important Notes
This position is not eligible for remote work.
This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last 6 months.
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 357-28 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 www.uscis.gov
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.
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.
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 to State Benefits for more information.
Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-C0304 in the subject line.
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 www.uscis.gov
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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.
Opportunity WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking a skilled Marine Electrician to support the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility and help keep the nation’s largest ferry system operating safely and reliably. This position plays a critical role in maintaining and restoring vessel and terminal electrical systems that are essential to daily ferry service. Through expert troubleshooting, installations, and repairs of advanced marine equipment and control systems, this role helps minimize downtime and supports dependable service for the traveling public. The successful candidate will contribute directly to WSF’s mission by ensuring vessels and facilities remain safe, efficient, and ready to serve communities across Washington.
As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system — guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow, Navigate— and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People — there’s never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.
What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Marine Electrician will:
Troubleshoot and repair electrical issues on vessels and terminals using diagnostic tools, drawings, blueprints, technical documents, and AC/DC theory.
Diagnose and repair AC/DC systems up to 4160 VAC and 900 VDC, including propulsion, steering, lighting, power distribution, alarms, communications, surveillance, cathodic protection, and battery systems.
Troubleshoot and maintain fiber optic systems, PLCs, software-controlled electronics, HMIs, motors, generators, motor controls, and communicators.
Perform preventative maintenance for vessels and terminals, including insulation resistance testing and following MPC cards for critical systems.
Clean and fusion splice fiber optic systems.
Inspect and maintain electrical motors and DC batteries.
Complete infrared scanning of electrical equipment.
Construct new electrical systems by installing distribution equipment, relay/PLC controls, transformers, load centers, circuit breakers, cabling, and rigid/EMT conduit.
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:
Marine Electrical Trade Qualification
Completion of a recognized marine electrician apprenticeship, journey-level marine electrician status, four years of marine electrical experience, or completion of an accredited vocational electrical program.
Demonstrated journey-level proficiency performing marine or industrial electrical work.
Electrical Systems Installation, Troubleshooting & Repair
Demonstrated ability to install, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair AC/DC electrical systems up to 4160 VAC and 900 VDC.
Experience with propulsion, steering, lighting, power distribution, alarms/monitoring, communications, surveillance, cathodic protection, and integrated battery systems.
Specialized Controls & Equipment Maintenance
Experience installing, maintaining, or repairing PLCs, software-controlled electronics, HMIs, fiber optic systems, AC motors/controls, AC generators, and large DC motors.
Experience with motor re-brushing, commutator repair, and testing of large DC motors or generators.
Electrical Diagnostics & Technical Analysis
Demonstrated knowledge of AC/DC theory and electrical troubleshooting principles.
Experience using electronic diagnostic and testing equipment to identify faults and restore system performance.
Technical Reading & Documentation Interpretation
Ability to read, interpret, and apply blueprints, schematics, drawings, sketches, technical manuals, and work instructions.
Ability to execute work accurately from plans, specifications, and technical documents.
Problem Solving & Independent Judgment
Demonstrated ability to analyze issues, develop solutions, and implement corrective actions within established policies and procedures.
Ability to exercise sound independent judgment in routine and emergent maintenance situations.
Work Planning, Prioritization & Time Management
Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
Experience balancing planned maintenance, troubleshooting, and emergency response work.
Teamwork & Communication
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and maintain positive working relationships with internal and external partners.
Safety, Compliance & Operational Readiness
Ability to meet respiratory protection requirements, including medical questionnaire, annual fit testing, and respirator use when required.
Ability to pass required pre-employment and random DOT drug testing.
May be subject to pre-employment electrical diagnostic/troubleshooting assessment.
Licensing, Credentials & Physical Requirements
Valid Washington State Driver License.
Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within 90 days of hire and maintain thereafter.
Ability to frequently lift/push/pull/carry up to 35 lbs. and occasionally up to 50 lbs.
Preferred It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Generator Systems Expertise
Experience maintaining, troubleshooting, or repairing generators over 200 kW and associated controls equipment.
PLC Certifications / Advanced Controls Knowledge
Certifications or formal training in Siemens, Allen Bradley, ABB, or similar PLC platforms.
Experience programming, diagnostics, or controls integration.
Drafting & Design Software
Experience using AutoCAD or equivalent drafting software to interpret or create electrical layouts and schematics.
Terminal Electrical Licensing
Current Washington State Labor & Industries EL01 Journey Level electrical license.
Marine / Transportation Infrastructure Experience
Experience supporting ferry systems, shipyards, marine facilities, terminals, or other mission-critical transportation infrastructure.
Important Notes
This position is not eligible for remote work.
This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last 6 months.
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 357-28 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 www.uscis.gov
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.
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.
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 to State Benefits for more information.
Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-C0304 in the subject line.
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 www.uscis.gov
#J-18808-Ljbffr