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 Traffic Safety Systems Operator 3 to join the Traffic Management Center (TMC) in Spokane, WA. In this 24-hour, multi-jurisdictional operations environment, this position monitors roadway conditions and identifies potential traffic and safety issues in real time. The incumbent coordinates response efforts and communicates timely information to internal staff, partner agencies, and the traveling public to support safe and efficient travel across the region. This role operates and manages Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices, including variable message signs and highway advisory radio, to help reduce congestion, improve mobility and air quality, and assist partner agencies during both routine and emergency incidents.
What to Expect
This position supports 24/7 TMC operations and works various shifts (primarily nights), with potential overtime, shift extensions, early call-ins, and schedule adjustments based on operational needs and emergencies.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Traffic Safety Systems Operator will:
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Monitor closed-circuit television feeds, traffic signals, detectors, variable message signs, ramp meters, and highway advisory radios to identify roadway conditions and system issues.
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Coordinate incident verification, reporting, and response with Incident Response Teams and field personnel, and provide updates until events are resolved.
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Communicate real-time information regarding traffic conditions, incidents, and system status to internal staff, partner agencies, and the traveling public via telephone, email, and radio.
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Receive, evaluate, and transmit information on collisions, disabled or abandoned vehicles, traffic hazards, signal malfunctions, fires, and property damage to initiate appropriate response actions.
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Maintain accurate computer logs, records, and documentation to support timely distribution of operational information.
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Operate and monitor regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices and communications systems to ensure proper function and accurate data transmission.
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Identify and report malfunctions or outages in ITS equipment and evaluate new or modified equipment and software for performance and functionality.
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Communicate with multiple groups and organizations via phone, email, and multi-channel radios with a high degree of professionalism and attention to detail.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
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Dispatch & Operations Coordination: Experience in dispatching, radio operations, emergency response, or a similar operations environment involving real-time communication and information coordination.
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Customer Focus / Service Orientation: Demonstrate a commitment to meeting the needs of internal and external customers, including the traveling public, partner agencies, and field personnel, by providing accurate and timely information.
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Communication Skills: Skills to effectively communicate clearly and concisely using radio, telephone, and electronic systems in high-pressure situations, and accurately relay critical information to diverse audiences, including emergency responders and the public.
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Situational Awareness & Decision Making: Ability to monitor multiple information sources simultaneously and evaluate conditions to identify incidents, hazards, or system issues. Ability to exercise sound judgment to prioritize and initiate appropriate responses in time-sensitive environments.
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Attention to Detail: Ability to maintain accurate logs, records, and system entries with a high level of precision and timeliness.
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Multitasking & Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks, systems, and communications simultaneously in a fast-paced, 24/7 operational environment.
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Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to learn and operate computers, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), and multi-channel communication equipment.
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Independence & Accountability: Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability for assigned responsibilities and outcomes.
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Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
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Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
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Traffic Management Center (TMC) Operations Experience: Experience working in a Traffic Management Center (TMC) or similar 24/7 operations environment.
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Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Experience: Experience using Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) devices or traffic monitoring systems. Familiarity with roadway systems, traffic operations, or emergency response coordination.
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Multi-Agency Coordination Experience: Experience working with multiple agencies or jurisdictions.
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Technology Adaptability: Demonstrated ability to quickly learn new technology and software systems.
Important Notes
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This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
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This position is not eligible for remote work.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
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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.
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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:
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An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
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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
Daisha.Jordan@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference
26DOT-ER-60733 in the subject line.