Government Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Washington
Washington's government sector offers substantial visa sponsorship opportunities across federal agencies, state departments, and local municipalities. Major employers include the Department of Defense installations like Naval Base Kitsap, federal research facilities at the University of Washington, and Boeing's defense contracts. Seattle and Tacoma dominate federal hiring, while Olympia hosts state government positions requiring specialized expertise.
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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 seeking a Contracts Specialist 1 to provide contracts, agreements, grant management, process expertise, and administrative support for the Rail, Freight and Ports (RFP) Division. You will support contracts and grants throughout their lifecycle, coordinate federal grant applications and reporting, assist with procurement activities, and work closely with WSDOT staff, government agencies, grantees, industry partners, and other stakeholders. Your attention to detail and ability to navigate policies and requirements will help ensure RFP programs are well-managed, compliant, and moving forward. This position helps support safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options that strengthen communities and economic vitality across Washington.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Support the administration of architectural and engineering, construction, consultant, interagency, professional services, and other contracts, agreements, and grants throughout their lifecycle.
- Monitor contract performance and deliverables, review invoices and supporting documentation, track milestones and dates, and support contract closeout.
- Maintain contracts, agreements, and grants information in databases, financial systems, filing and archival systems, and SharePoint.
- Coordinate grant calls for projects, including applicant review, documentation, scoring, and compliance activities.
- Coordinate with WSDOT staff, grant recipients, and stakeholders regarding administrative processes, performance monitoring, and required reporting.
- Coordinate federal grant applications, including development and quality review of application materials, submission, and monitoring.
- Coordinate required and ad hoc reporting with WSDOT staff, federal and state agencies, and external stakeholders.
- Support division procurement activities, review assigned procurements for compliance, maintain procurement files, and facilitate related documentation and processing.
- Provide backup support to the Contracts and Federal Compliance Lead, participate in meetings, prepare meeting summaries, collaborate with subject matter experts and staff, and support records retention requirements.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Contracts & Agreements: Demonstrates working knowledge and experience administering state and/or government contracts and agreements.
- Ethics & Equity: Demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical and equitable standards, sound judgment, and appropriate handling of confidential or sensitive information.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
- Grants & Contract Agreements: Demonstrates knowledge of federal grant application processes, grant administration and oversight, agreement administration, and project delivery and planning agreements.
- Laws, Rules & Regulations: Demonstrates knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations applicable to federal and state procurements, grants, contracts, and agreements.
- Communication & Collaboration: Communicates clearly with diverse audiences, including government agencies, internal and external stakeholders, and partners; facilitates meetings and delivers presentations.
- Correspondence & Comprehension: Produces and reviews clear technical documents, correspondence, reports, and other written materials; demonstrates proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, SharePoint, and PowerPoint.
- Compliance & Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy, follows state and federal requirements, and applies applicable federal processes.
- Project Management: Supports project administration by applying scope, schedule, budget, and risk considerations and identifying opportunities to improve processes and efficiency.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Rail Industry Contracts: Familiarity or direct contract experience involving Amtrak, railroads, or rail vendors.
- Federal Transportation Requirements: Familiarity or direct contract experience involving U.S. Department of Transportation laws and regulations.
- SharePoint & Document Collaboration: Familiarity or direct experience using SharePoint tools, document collaboration, and related systems.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options and may work remote up to 100% per supervisor approval, with the ability to attend infrequent meetings.
- 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options 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.
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
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-05632 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 seeking a Contracts Specialist 1 to provide contracts, agreements, grant management, process expertise, and administrative support for the Rail, Freight and Ports (RFP) Division. You will support contracts and grants throughout their lifecycle, coordinate federal grant applications and reporting, assist with procurement activities, and work closely with WSDOT staff, government agencies, grantees, industry partners, and other stakeholders. Your attention to detail and ability to navigate policies and requirements will help ensure RFP programs are well-managed, compliant, and moving forward. This position helps support safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options that strengthen communities and economic vitality across Washington.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Support the administration of architectural and engineering, construction, consultant, interagency, professional services, and other contracts, agreements, and grants throughout their lifecycle.
- Monitor contract performance and deliverables, review invoices and supporting documentation, track milestones and dates, and support contract closeout.
- Maintain contracts, agreements, and grants information in databases, financial systems, filing and archival systems, and SharePoint.
- Coordinate grant calls for projects, including applicant review, documentation, scoring, and compliance activities.
- Coordinate with WSDOT staff, grant recipients, and stakeholders regarding administrative processes, performance monitoring, and required reporting.
- Coordinate federal grant applications, including development and quality review of application materials, submission, and monitoring.
- Coordinate required and ad hoc reporting with WSDOT staff, federal and state agencies, and external stakeholders.
- Support division procurement activities, review assigned procurements for compliance, maintain procurement files, and facilitate related documentation and processing.
- Provide backup support to the Contracts and Federal Compliance Lead, participate in meetings, prepare meeting summaries, collaborate with subject matter experts and staff, and support records retention requirements.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Contracts & Agreements: Demonstrates working knowledge and experience administering state and/or government contracts and agreements.
- Ethics & Equity: Demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical and equitable standards, sound judgment, and appropriate handling of confidential or sensitive information.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
- Grants & Contract Agreements: Demonstrates knowledge of federal grant application processes, grant administration and oversight, agreement administration, and project delivery and planning agreements.
- Laws, Rules & Regulations: Demonstrates knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations applicable to federal and state procurements, grants, contracts, and agreements.
- Communication & Collaboration: Communicates clearly with diverse audiences, including government agencies, internal and external stakeholders, and partners; facilitates meetings and delivers presentations.
- Correspondence & Comprehension: Produces and reviews clear technical documents, correspondence, reports, and other written materials; demonstrates proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, SharePoint, and PowerPoint.
- Compliance & Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy, follows state and federal requirements, and applies applicable federal processes.
- Project Management: Supports project administration by applying scope, schedule, budget, and risk considerations and identifying opportunities to improve processes and efficiency.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Rail Industry Contracts: Familiarity or direct contract experience involving Amtrak, railroads, or rail vendors.
- Federal Transportation Requirements: Familiarity or direct contract experience involving U.S. Department of Transportation laws and regulations.
- SharePoint & Document Collaboration: Familiarity or direct experience using SharePoint tools, document collaboration, and related systems.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options and may work remote up to 100% per supervisor approval, with the ability to attend infrequent meetings.
- 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options 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.
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
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-05632 in the subject line.
Government Job Roles in Washington
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Search Government Jobs in WashingtonGovernment Jobs in Washington: Frequently Asked Questions
Which government companies sponsor visas in Washington?
Major visa sponsors include the Department of Defense through Naval Base Kitsap and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, the Department of Energy at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and the Department of Homeland Security's Seattle field offices. Boeing's defense division, Microsoft's government contracts, and Amazon Web Services GovCloud also sponsor H-1B visas for technical roles supporting government projects.
How to find government visa sponsorship jobs in Washington?
Use Migrate Mate to filter government positions in Washington that sponsor work visas. Focus on federal contractors in Seattle and defense installations around Puget Sound. Many positions require security clearances, so highlight any existing clearance eligibility. Research agencies like the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Defense Department contractors for specialized technical roles.
Which visa types are most common for government roles in Washington?
H-1B visas dominate for technical positions at defense contractors and federal research facilities. L-1 visas are common for international consulting firms working on government contracts. TN visas serve Canadian and Mexican professionals in engineering and scientific roles. O-1 visas occasionally appear for researchers at national laboratories or unique expertise in cybersecurity and defense technology.
Which cities in Washington have the most government sponsorship jobs?
Seattle leads with federal agencies, defense contractors, and tech companies serving government clients. Tacoma offers opportunities through Joint Base Lewis-McChord and port authority positions. Richland hosts the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory with extensive research roles. Olympia provides state government positions, while Everett features Boeing defense manufacturing requiring specialized engineering talent.
What are the prevailing wage requirements for government jobs in Washington?
Government contractors must meet higher prevailing wage standards set by the Department of Labor for federal projects. Washington's high cost of living, particularly in Seattle, drives wages above national averages. Security clearance requirements often increase compensation significantly. Research positions at national laboratories typically offer competitive packages to attract international talent in specialized fields like nuclear engineering and cybersecurity.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored government jobs in Washington?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.