Overview
Software Quality Assurance Analyst Jobs in La Crosse, WI at Kwik Trip
Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world’s longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Washington State Ferry (WSF) system is essential to Washington’s transportation network, linking communities on both sides of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. There are over nearly 400 sailings each day on nine ferry routes. WSF transports nearly 19 million passengers a year and has more than 1,900 employees. Employees perform a variety of duties on vessels, in terminals, at the maintenance facility, and at the Seattle headquarters.
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a non-permanent Quality Assurance & Quality Improvement (QA&QI) Lead – Marine Operations is an interdisciplinary technical and regulatory specialist responsible for overseeing quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives across deck and engine room operations, as well as vessel and vessel equipment. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards and the organization’s Safety Management System (SMS), driving enhancements in safety, efficiency, and overall operational quality. The QA&QI Lead is pivotal in fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, supporting WSF’s mission to deliver exceptional service through systematic audits, training, and process optimization.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Quality Assurance & Quality Improvement Lead will:
Serve as a technical expert for marine regulatory compliance.
Develop and implement internal audit programs for deck operations, vessel engine rooms, vessels, and vessel equipment.
Analyze audit findings and identify areas for improvement and recommend corrective and preventative actions.
Maintain required and applicable training and certifications as a lead auditor.
Manage WSF compliance with the Vessel General Permit including required reporting, document development, and training.
Develop policies and procedures to prevent spills, such as transfer of hazardous materials and oil containers.
Represent WSF interests on environmental protection and pollution prevention matters with federal, state and local resources and regulatory agencies.
Oversee and improve solid waste management on vessels, and at facilities, including terminals, warehouses, shipyards, and headquarters.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
Undergraduate degree in Environmental Sciences, Maritime Studies, Engineering, Quality Assurance, or a related field. (Related work experience, as described below, can substitute year-for-year for education experience.)
Five (5) or more years of experience in quality assurance, auditing, or continuous improvement, preferably within the maritime industry.
Experience in conducting internal audits and managing safety managements systems.
Familiarity with maritime regulations and compliance standards, including ISM Code, SOLAS, and environmental standards.
A combination of education and experience to meet the total is acceptable.
ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification.
Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification.
Safety Management System (SMS) related certification is a plus.
In-depth understanding of maritime regulations and safety management systems.
Understanding of maritime operations and vessels.
Familiarity with quality assurance methodologies and tools (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean).
Knowledge of audit processes and compliance standards.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within teams.
Capacity to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Ability to compose and publish reports, letters, and other documentation related to the jobs performed.
Ability to complete assigned tasks on schedule.
Ability to efficiently and effectively perform duties in high stress, demanding, and challenging situations.
Proactive and results-oriented mindset.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
Commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
Willingness to travel to various operational sites, including shipyards and shoreside facilities, as needed for audits and inspections.
Ability to work in diverse environments, including outdoor and industrial settings, and to comply with safety protocols and regulations.
Capability to perform physical activities, such as climbing ladders or accessing confined spaces, as necessary during audits.
Flexibility to be on-call for urgent quality assurance matters or incidents.
Commitment to ongoing professional development and training to stay current with industry standards and best practices.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences, Maritime Studies, Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field.
Additional coursework in safety management or regulatory compliance.
Seven (7) or more years of experience in quality assurance, auditing, or continuous improvement in the maritime industry.
Proven track record in leading quality improvement projects and initiatives.
Experience in vessel engine room operations, and with vessels and vessel equipment.
Certified Quality Manager (CQM) or equivalent.
Maritime safety certifications (e.g., STCW, ISM Code training).
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
Advanced knowledge of international maritime regulations (e.g., SOLAS, MARPOL).
Familiarity with risk management principles and methodologies.
Advanced data analysis and statistical skills.
Strong project management skills with experience in agile methodologies.
Proficiency in quality management software and tools.
Ability to mentor and develop team members in quality assurance practices.
Strong facilitation and conflict-resolution skills.
Capacity to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels.
Strong commitment to ethical practices and integrity.
Adaptive and flexible approach to change and challenges.
Collaborative mindset with a focus on team success and empowerment.
Important Notes
This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last 24 months.
The salary listed includes the legislative-approved 5% salary premium for positions with an assigned duty station 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 357-28of 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 ensuring that our staff experiences the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individual’s lifestyle.
Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum of 14 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 the choice of state retirement programs and much more. Go toState Benefitsfor 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 your 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 for 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, Renee Mason, at [email protected]. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-WSF-90993c in the subject line.
Title: Software Quality Assurance Analyst
Company: Kwik Trip
Location: La Crosse, WI
