About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project. 
 
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking to fill two Program Specialist 5 positions to serve as the Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) Coordinators. These positions in the Office of Equity and Civil Rights, and working with the Human Resources Department, Washington State Ferries’ (WSF) Training Department and all other regions, services, and programs, to support the execution of WSDOT’s DEI Plan with a primary focus on fostering, supporting, and advising the WSDOT on its implementation. Under the direction of the DEI Program Manager, these positions provide crucial input at a strategic and operational level to ensure successful implementation of the DEI Plan by developing strong and productive partnerships within all levels of WSDOT. The DEI Coordinators provide subject matter expertise, guidance, and consultation to managers and employees regarding DEI best practices and implementation assistance to ensure the DEI initiative is central to all agency decisions and policies. The individuals in these roles will perform reviews of policies and procedures and provide guidance on changes that support the DEI Plan and its implementation at every level of decision making. Our top candidates will lead and facilitate DEI training, conversations, small groups, and be available as a resource to answer questions, troubleshoot concerns, and develop strategies to increase buy-in from agency employees.
 
What to Expect
At the direction of the DEI Program Manager, these positions will serve as active participants in agency Diversity Advisory Groups (DAG), create and implement new tools, develop an array of statistical and written reports to illustrate program progress at WSDOT and identify measures to track program success and needs for future innovation.
 
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the DEI Coordinator will:

• Collaborate with management and employees to ensure DEI work plan is executed.
• Serve as an exemplary model for inclusive behaviors at all times, exhibiting cultural competency. 
• Collaborate with the DEI Program Manager. Educate and train staff on principles related to anti-racism, DEI, and cultural competency, at all training locations. 
• Consult with managers, stakeholders, and employees to resolve conflicts, which might arise within a program that can be misunderstood, controversial, or previously unexplored.
• Lead and facilitate productive conversations where not all parties agree. 
• Collaborate with and advise HR when employee behaviors are inconsistent with fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.
• Conduct fleet and terminal visits to establish working knowledge and relationships with employees. 
• Develop instructional materials and perform training covering DEI and civil rights issues at all locations, specifically relating to Title VI, Title VII, Limited English Proficiency, and Environmental Justice.
• Perform investigations (e.g., Title VI and Title VII). 
• Review policies, processes, and procedures to ensure equity and civil rights requirements are incorporated into all WSDOT programs, services, and activities.
• Host and attend outreach and engagement activities to enhance WSDOT’s internal and external DEI efforts.

• Bachelor’s Degree in business administration, psychology, communications, or a closely allied field (Relevant experience or certifications may be substituted year for year for a degree).
• Five (5) years of experience working in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing. 
• Superb cultural competency. 
• Expert with training, mediation, and/or facilitating complex conversations. 

• Master’s Degree in business administration, psychology, communications, or a closely allied field.
• Bilingual in one of Washington’s top ten limited English proficient languages. 

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.   
• These positions offer flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
• Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 357-16-197 mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Compliance with this mandate is a condition of employment with WSDOT. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.  
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

• 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 occasional telework 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 to State Benefits for more information.

• 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 three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.