Relief Dispatcher - Washington State Ferries

Description

The first consideration and/or preference is with current Washington State Ferries OPEIU members.

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 dependable, service-oriented Relief Dispatcher to help ensure our vessels remain safely and reliably staffed every day. This role ensures reliable ferry operations by providing both scheduled and unscheduled relief for Dispatchers and Dispatch Coordinators, performing all Dispatcher duties and occasionally higher-level tasks when needed. Working under general direction, the Relief Dispatcher manages daily and long-term scheduling, responds to employee relief requests, maintains accurate documentation, and ensures minimum crewing requirements are consistently met. The position also supports fleet operations by coordinating essential deliveries such as fuel, lube oil, and bilge pump services. Through responsive service, teamwork, and a focus on operational continuity, the Relief Dispatcher helps uphold WSF’s core values and maintain a safe, dependable, and well-coordinated system.

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

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

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

• Dispatch licensed and unlicensed deck and engine room personnel in full compliance with ISM standards, WSF policies, USCG requirements, and all applicable labor agreements, including receiving and filling relief requests, assigning qualified personnel, and entering updates into the WSF Dispatching System.
• Communicate with personnel regarding work assignments and schedules through phone, email, and other methods; provide clarification, document communications, and escalate inquiries when needed.
• Maintain communication channels between operations and fleet personnel; coordinate with the Watch Center, management, and vessel crews regarding unexpected events, sea trials, boat moves, inspections, and emergencies.
• Maintain employee documentation within the WSF Dispatching System by collecting required records, auditing accuracy, updating status, and arranging removals from vessels when documentation is not current.
• Forecast and coordinate operational needs such as fuel, lube oil, and bilge pump services; schedule and communicate with vendors, vessel crews, and terminal personnel; and maintain related records.
• Create on-call lists and schedules based on vessel complement needs and applicable USCG and labor agreement requirements; assist Bid Administrators and Dispatch Coordinators with bid processes and scheduling adjustments.
• Perform long-term scheduling by forecasting labor needs, assigning relief personnel, creating and distributing schedules, maintaining leave records, tracking employee qualifications, and updating the WSF Dispatching System.
• Prepare reports and dispatch metrics, assist with auditing personnel pay orders, participate in meetings on labor and operational topics, and perform other duties as assigned.
• 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

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

• Operational Expertise: Demonstrates a thorough understanding of vessel operations, crew scheduling, and dispatching principles to ensure staffing meets operational and regulatory requirements.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to assess staffing needs, anticipate challenges, and develop effective scheduling solutions within established guidelines and labor agreements.
• Communication and Collaboration: Communicates clearly and respectfully with vessel personnel, management, and labor representatives, both verbally and in writing, to coordinate relief assignments and resolve scheduling matters.
• Customer and Service Orientation: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others. Provides responsive, professional, and courteous service to employees and partners, reflecting WSF’s values of Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate. Technical Proficiency: Uses computer systems and applications effectively, including the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and specialized dispatch or scheduling software.
• Time Management and Organization: Manages multiple priorities efficiently and meets deadlines in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
• Confidentiality and Professional Judgment: Maintains composure and discretion while managing sensitive personnel information and making time-critical decisions.
• Regulatory and Contractual Knowledge: Interprets and applies collective bargaining agreements, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations, and WSF policies consistently and accurately.
• Growth Mindset – Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Maritime and Transportation Knowledge: Familiarity with maritime or transportation operations, including relevant terminology, vessel requirements, and safety protocols.
• Labor Relations Awareness: Experience interpreting and applying provisions of collective bargaining agreements in scheduling or personnel management contexts.
• Regulatory Familiarity: Working knowledge of ISM Code, USCG regulations, WSF operational policies, and related compliance requirements.
• Advanced Scheduling and Dispatching Skills: Demonstrated ability to develop and manage complex work schedules that support continuous ferry service operations.

Important Notes

• The first consideration and/or preference is with current Washington State Ferries OPEIU members
• The candidate must be able to work a varying relief schedule, including early morning shifts and late evenings, and demonstrate the flexibility needed to meet operational needs and contractual deadlines.
• 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 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.
• 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.

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 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 www.uscis.gov

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