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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Engineer 2 to assist with the Bridge Inspection program, conducting specialized and routine inspections on 1300+ fixed span, movable span, floating bridges, tunnels, retaining walls, sign structures and large drainage culverts. This position is critical in fostering a respectful and healthy work environment with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 2 will:
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Support the Bridge Inspection Program by conducting both specialized and routine inspections of over 1,300 structures, including fixed-span, movable-span, and floating bridges, as well as tunnels, retaining walls, sign structures, and large drainage culverts.
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Complete and submit Routine Inspection Reports, Bridge Repair Reports, and Bridge Damage Reports in accordance with program standards.
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Assess structural damage and provide repair recommendations to maintenance crews; conduct follow-up inspections to verify completion and effectiveness of repairs.
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Serve as the engineering representative for bridge maintenance activities across the region, providing technical expertise and coordination to ensure the integrity and longevity of transportation structures.
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Responsible for evaluating and estimating high-priority bridge repairs identified through inspection reports, ensuring timely and cost-effective maintenance planning.
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May act as a first responder to incidents involving third-party damage or natural disasters affecting transportation infrastructure within the region; utilize sound engineering judgment to assess the severity and potential impacts of damage to critical structures, including bridges, tunnels, lids, retaining walls, and sign structures.
Field work requires working in high-traffic areas, marine settings, confined spaces, and elevated locations exceeding 100 feet over water, on catwalks, and in all weather conditions. Work may involve interaction with individuals experiencing homelessness and encampments.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
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Bridge Inspection & Evaluation: Demonstrated ability to perform routine and specialized inspections of bridges and related structures in accordance with state and federal standards.
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Structural Assessment & Repair Recommendations: Ability to assess structural conditions and provide sound engineering recommendations for maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation.
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Engineering Judgment & Decision-Making: Ability to apply professional engineering principles and independent judgment to evaluate structural issues and make timely, effective decisions in both routine and emergency situations.
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Technical Documentation & Reporting: Proficient in preparing clear, accurate, and compliant inspection and repair reports that meet program and regulatory standards.
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Equipment & Technology Utilization: Skilled in using inspection equipment, data collection tools, and computer applications such as bridge databases, Microsoft Office, and mobile devices.
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Emergency Response & Incident Assessment: Capable of responding promptly to incidents or natural disasters, assessing damage to transportation infrastructure, and determining immediate safety needs.
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Collaboration & Coordination: Ability to work effectively with maintenance crews, engineers, and regional staff to plan, execute, and follow up on bridge inspections and repairs.
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Commits to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment through professional conduct and interactions.
In addition to the above competencies, the following are also required:
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Possession of a valid Driver’s License.
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Class A CDL, N tank endorsement, without restrictions E for no manual transmission and L for air brake restriction, or ability to get one within 6 months of employment.
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Within one (1) year complete the following:
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Successful completion of FEMA ICS courses 100, 200, 700 & 800.
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WSDOT Survey Skills for Maintenance course.
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Successful completion of Formal Plans Reading course and Bridge Condition Inspection Training (BCIT) course within two (2) years.
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Skilled in working at elevations exceeding 100 feet, including on catwalks, Under Bridge Inspection Trucks (UBIT), and suspended platforms.
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Ability to move and manipulate 50 pounds independently or with assistance.
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Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and other shifts based on operational needs.
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Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and inclines, and uneven surfaces.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
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High school diploma or GED.
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Demonstrated experience in WSDOT Bridge Maintenance operations.
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Successful completion of a formal Plans Reading course.
Important Notes
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This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
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The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
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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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
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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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An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
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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
alyssa.nastasi@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference
25DOT-NWR-13236ein the subject line.