Green Card Design Lead Jobs
Design Lead roles qualify for EB-2 or EB-3 green card sponsorship when the position requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a design-related field and the employer files a PERM labor certification with DOL. Sponsorship leads to permanent residency, not a temporary visa, making it a long-term commitment from both sides.
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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!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Design Project Team Lead to provide leadership in the development of transportation projects that help keep Washington's highways safe, reliable, and efficient for the traveling public. In this role, you will guide a team of engineers and technicians in delivering high-quality project designs that support critical infrastructure improvements across the state. Your leadership will help ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with WSDOT's commitment to safety, innovation, and operational excellence. This position offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on Washington's transportation system while mentoring and developing the next generation of engineering professionals.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Coordinate day-to-day engineering and project development activities while ensuring assigned projects meet WSDOT design standards and are delivered within established scope, schedule, and budget.
- Lead preparation and review of design documentation, environmental documentation, right-of-way plans, and PS&E packages.
- Facilitate the preparation, resource loading, and updating of project schedules.
- Implement quality control practices; review alignment, drainage, earthwork, and quantity calculations.
- Identify project risks, monitor expenses, and raise schedule or budget concerns when needed.
- Coordinate with support groups and external stakeholders to clarify scope and ensure project integration.
- Supervise and mentor engineering staff, conduct performance evaluations, and support training needs.
- Perform field reviews, including traversing uneven terrain, to verify data and support design decisions.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Foundational Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, typically acquired through formal education or equivalent on-the-job experience. Ability to apply engineering principles, techniques, and procedures to the design of various transportation projects.
- Project Management Knowledge: Demonstrated ability to develop, monitor, and update project schedules and plans; manage scope, time, and resources effectively; and deliver projects in compliance with applicable standards and milestones.
- Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Skilled in reading, interpreting, analyzing, and producing contract plans, specifications, and cost estimates in accordance with project requirements and engineering standards.
- Leadership Skills: Ability to lead and coach subordinate staff, including evaluating performance, identifying training needs, and resolving personnel issues.
- Communication and Interpersonal Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate technical information clearly to a variety of stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and the public.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
In addition to the competencies above, the following are also required:
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
- Ability to travel locally or regionally to perform fieldwork.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Professional Engineering Licensure: Possession of a valid Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Engineering Leadership: Experience supervising, coaching, and developing engineering staff.
- WSDOT Project Delivery: Experience leading or assisting in the development of a WSDOT design-bid-build project from initiation through completion.
- Engineering Design Software: Experience using Bentley MicroStation, InRoads, OpenRoads, or similar engineering design software.
- Transportation Design: Experience performing technical transportation design, including vertical and horizontal alignments, geometric design, hydraulic design, and survey/right-of-way plan development.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- Local or regional travel is required on a regular and/or as-needed basis to perform site visits or attend meetings and training.
- 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 357-28 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.
- Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a 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 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-12507-1 in the subject line.
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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Design Project Team Lead to provide leadership in the development of transportation projects that help keep Washington's highways safe, reliable, and efficient for the traveling public. In this role, you will guide a team of engineers and technicians in delivering high-quality project designs that support critical infrastructure improvements across the state. Your leadership will help ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with WSDOT's commitment to safety, innovation, and operational excellence. This position offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on Washington's transportation system while mentoring and developing the next generation of engineering professionals.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Coordinate day-to-day engineering and project development activities while ensuring assigned projects meet WSDOT design standards and are delivered within established scope, schedule, and budget.
- Lead preparation and review of design documentation, environmental documentation, right-of-way plans, and PS&E packages.
- Facilitate the preparation, resource loading, and updating of project schedules.
- Implement quality control practices; review alignment, drainage, earthwork, and quantity calculations.
- Identify project risks, monitor expenses, and raise schedule or budget concerns when needed.
- Coordinate with support groups and external stakeholders to clarify scope and ensure project integration.
- Supervise and mentor engineering staff, conduct performance evaluations, and support training needs.
- Perform field reviews, including traversing uneven terrain, to verify data and support design decisions.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Foundational Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, typically acquired through formal education or equivalent on-the-job experience. Ability to apply engineering principles, techniques, and procedures to the design of various transportation projects.
- Project Management Knowledge: Demonstrated ability to develop, monitor, and update project schedules and plans; manage scope, time, and resources effectively; and deliver projects in compliance with applicable standards and milestones.
- Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Skilled in reading, interpreting, analyzing, and producing contract plans, specifications, and cost estimates in accordance with project requirements and engineering standards.
- Leadership Skills: Ability to lead and coach subordinate staff, including evaluating performance, identifying training needs, and resolving personnel issues.
- Communication and Interpersonal Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate technical information clearly to a variety of stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and the public.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
In addition to the competencies above, the following are also required:
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
- Ability to travel locally or regionally to perform fieldwork.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Professional Engineering Licensure: Possession of a valid Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Engineering Leadership: Experience supervising, coaching, and developing engineering staff.
- WSDOT Project Delivery: Experience leading or assisting in the development of a WSDOT design-bid-build project from initiation through completion.
- Engineering Design Software: Experience using Bentley MicroStation, InRoads, OpenRoads, or similar engineering design software.
- Transportation Design: Experience performing technical transportation design, including vertical and horizontal alignments, geometric design, hydraulic design, and survey/right-of-way plan development.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- Local or regional travel is required on a regular and/or as-needed basis to perform site visits or attend meetings and training.
- 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 357-28 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.
- Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a 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 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-12507-1 in the subject line.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Green Card Sponsorship in Design Lead
Document your design portfolio strategically
USCIS adjudicators reviewing your I-140 want evidence the role requires a specific degree, not just design talent. Organize your portfolio to show specialized discipline alignment, whether UX, product, brand, or spatial design, to support the specialty occupation framing.
Target employers with active PERM filing history
Not every company that hires Design Leads has run a PERM before. Prioritize studios, tech companies, and consultancies that have filed PERM applications for design roles, since they already have the internal HR and legal infrastructure to sponsor you efficiently.
Search green card sponsoring roles on Migrate Mate
Migrate Mate filters Design Lead roles by employers who have actively sponsored green cards, saving you from applying to companies that have no sponsorship infrastructure. Use it to identify which design teams have a real precedent for EB-2 or EB-3 filings.
Clarify EB-2 versus EB-3 fit before accepting an offer
If your Design Lead role requires an advanced degree or you hold one, push for EB-2 classification, which skips the PERM recruitment advertising period in some cases via National Interest Waiver. EB-3 is broader but adds the supervised DOL recruitment stage regardless.
Verify the prevailing wage tier before negotiations
Your employer's PERM filing locks in a wage level using DOL data. Look up the Design Lead SOC code in the OFLC Wage Search before you negotiate your offer, so your target salary lands at or above the level the employer will certify to DOL.
Confirm your employer will file concurrently if your priority date allows
For most countries outside India and China, EB-3 priority dates for Design Leads are current, meaning your employer can file the I-140 and I-485 at the same time. Concurrent filing cuts months off your wait, so confirm this option during the offer discussion.
Green Card Design Lead: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Design Lead role qualify for EB-2 or EB-3 green card sponsorship?
Design Lead positions typically qualify under EB-3 as professional roles requiring a bachelor's degree in graphic design, industrial design, UX, or a related field. EB-2 is available if the role specifically requires an advanced degree or if your credentials and achievements meet the higher standard. Your employer's immigration attorney will determine the correct category based on the job description and your qualifications.
How does green card sponsorship differ from H-1B for a Design Lead?
An H-1B visa is a temporary, renewable status tied to a specific employer, subject to the annual lottery cap. A green card via PERM is permanent residency with no renewal and no cap concerns at the EB-3 level for most countries. The PERM process takes longer upfront, typically one to two years before the I-140 is even filed, but the outcome is lawful permanent residency rather than a status you need to maintain indefinitely.
What does the PERM recruitment process mean for Design Lead applicants?
Before your employer can file your PERM labor certification with DOL, they must conduct a supervised recruitment process to demonstrate no qualified U.S. workers are available for the role. This includes posting the Design Lead position through specific channels defined by DOL. You are not involved in this step directly, but the job duties and requirements advertised must match what you will actually do, so review the job description carefully before this phase begins.
How do I find Design Lead roles where the employer has green card sponsorship experience?
Migrate Mate lets you filter Design Lead positions by employers with documented green card sponsorship history, so you are not starting from scratch researching which companies have run PERM before. This is especially useful for design roles because many creative agencies and studios are willing to hire internationally but have never sponsored a permanent resident petition and lack the process infrastructure to do so.
Can I change employers after my I-140 is approved but before my green card is issued?
Yes. Once your I-140 has been approved for 180 days or more and your I-485 has been pending for 180 days or more, portability under AC21 allows you to move to a different Design Lead role with another employer in the same or a similar occupational classification without losing your priority date. The new role must be in the same broad design field, and you will need to notify USCIS of the change.