Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training)

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 skilled Transportation Engineer 2 to join the Olympic Region Materials and General Engineering Consultant (GEC) office in Lacey, WA to support the development, administration, and documentation of highway construction contracts in accordance with WSDOT standards, specifications, and plans. Under the direction of a Transportation Engineer 3, this position independently performs engineering assignments in the field, office, and laboratory, including daily construction inspection and verification that contractor work meets contract requirements. The candidate selected for this role will also perform materials sampling, testing, and acceptance activities. Through these responsibilities, this position helps ensure construction projects meet WSDOT’s quality, safety, stewardship, and long-term resilience standards.

What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Inspect active highway construction projects to verify conformance with plans, specifications, quality standards, quantities, and contract requirements.
• Document field conditions, maintain accurate inspection records, prepare pay estimates and final records, and interpret technical data and material test results.
• Perform specialized inspections and material testing for complex construction elements, including major bridges, pavements, illumination, signing, enclosed drainage systems, and accommodation of existing utilities.
• Collect, transport, and test construction materials and maintain material documentation, tracking systems, and records to verify material acceptability.
• Compile wage and equipment rates; monitor and adjust payments for materials; and review contractor’s payroll, Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goals, apprentice utilization, and training programs.
• Develop and administer change orders by preparing estimates and supporting documentation, evaluating schedule impacts, obtaining approvals, and tracking changes.
• Evaluate constructability issues, manage requests for information and submittals, support design solutions, and maintain as-built drawings and construction records.
• Perform laboratory testing and manage regional materials testing equipment, supplies, inventory, calibration, verification, maintenance, and repair while maintaining a safe and orderly work environment.

Qualifications This is a Transportation Engineer 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.

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

• Foundational Engineering Technical Skills and Knowledge: Foundational knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, with the ability to apply engineering concepts to real-world transportation project scenarios.
• Technical Interpretation, Analysis, and Problem Solving: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret engineering plans, specifications, contract documents, manuals, and technical data; identify issues or discrepancies; and apply sound engineering judgment to support effective, practical solutions.
• Engineering Documentation and Records Management: Ability to accurately document engineering, inspection, survey, materials, or project support activities through reports, field notes, calculations, quantities, records, and other required documentation in accordance with established standards and procedures.
• Engineering Technology and Software: Ability to use, or learn to use, engineering-related software and digital tools to support design, analysis, documentation, inspection, data collection, and project delivery (e.g., CAD, databases, spreadsheets, and agency systems).
• Data Collection and Analysis: Skill in gathering, analyzing, and documenting data accurately to support engineering decisions.
• Communication Skills: Skills in communicating information effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing, to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, both virtually and in-person. Including listening, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back on constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
• Software Proficiency: Proficiency with computers and software applications, including Microsoft Office. Skills to learn and operate engineering design software (i.e., AutoCAD, MicroStation, Civil 3D, or equivalent).
• Standards and Procedures: Experience learning and applying standards, policies, and procedures related to transportation engineering projects.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions.
• Certification as a Certified General Inspector within 12 months of appointment.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain; perform duties low to the ground or at ground level; and stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Civil Engineering Knowledge: Skills to apply technical civil engineering principles, practices,
• and methods to support project planning, design, and implementation. Experience gained through internships, co-ops, or project-based coursework in civil or transportation engineering.
• Construction and Contract Administration: Skills to apply construction practices and contract administration processes to ensure compliance with project specifications, timelines, and regulatory requirements.
• Inspection and Documentation: Skills to utilize inspection techniques and maintain accurate field documentation to verify the quality and quantity of work performed.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.

• 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.

• This is a Transportation 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan. The base salaries for each level are: • Transportation Engineer 2: $72,900 – $98,064

• Transportation Engineer 1: $66,072 – $88,788

• 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.

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 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 [email protected]. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-33029 in the subject line.