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Role Description

WSDOT is currently seeking an External Civil Rights Specialist to support equitable participation in federally and state funded transportation programs. This role serves as a subject matter expert in administering and monitoring Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and related small and diverse business programs, helping ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. The position provides program oversight, conducts Commercially Useful Function (CUF) reviews, and offers guidance and training to promote transparency, integrity, and fair access to contracting opportunities. Through these efforts, the specialist helps safeguard program compliance, reduce fraud, and support responsible stewardship of public funds. This work plays an important role in advancing WSDOT’s commitment to equity, accountability, and delivering safe, reliable transportation services for the traveling public.

What to Expect

• Lead compliance for federal and state diverse business programs.
• Advise WSDOT and partner agencies on DBE, FSBE, and related program policies and practices.
• Conduct Commercially Useful Function (CUF) reviews on regionally assigned contracts in accordance with CFR requirements.
• Provide guidance, training, and interpretation to internal and external partners on program requirements.
• Apply federal, state, and agency civil rights requirements to support contract compliance.
• Conduct compliance reviews, including investigation, analysis, reporting, and recommendations to remedy non-compliance.
• Monitor program reporting; collect data, develop reports, and provide reporting guidance.
• Respond to public inquiries and complaints; perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Civil Rights and Compliance Experience – Demonstrated professional experience performing work related to civil rights compliance, investigations, regulatory oversight, or related program administration.
• Regulatory Knowledge and Application – Working knowledge of federal and state regulatory frameworks, including 49 CFR Part 26, and the ability to apply regulatory requirements to contracts, programs, or real-world scenarios.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills – Ability to analyze regulations, policies, and complex situations to develop informed recommendations and solutions.
• Professional Communication and Guidance – Experience clearly communicating regulatory requirements and providing guidance to diverse internal and external stakeholders, including leadership, partner agencies, and the public.
• Equity and Inclusive Workplace Practices – Demonstrated experience fostering and contributing to inclusive environments that support respect, fair access, and equal opportunity.
• Customer and Service Orientation – Experience providing responsive, solution-focused service to stakeholders, partners, or the public.
• Continuous Learning and Professional Development – Demonstrated commitment to professional growth, learning new regulations, policies, or program requirements.

Requirements

• Investigative Processes and Procedures – Demonstrated experience conducting or supporting investigations, compliance reviews, or fact-finding processes related to regulatory or civil rights programs.
• Compliance Training and Program Expertise – Advanced experience developing, delivering, or supporting training on regulatory compliance or civil rights program requirements, typically supported by certifications or specialized professional experience.

Benefits

• 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.

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.

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.

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-HQ-04272 in the subject line.