Assistant Traffic Design Engineer – TE2 (In-Training)

Full Job 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 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 an Assistant Traffic Design Engineer to join the Traffic Office in Wenatchee, WA.

This position supports the delivery of traffic projects, including signal systems, illumination, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), permanent signing, and traffic control plans.

The role also assists with traffic operations, including signal timing and capacity analysis.

A strong candidate will demonstrate the ability to apply engineering principles to transportation projects, engineering design and project documentation skills, and effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, all while maintaining a commitment to safety, professional growth, and public service.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Traffic Design Engineer will:

• Develop and review contract plans, specifications, estimates, schedules, and design documentation for traffic signal systems, illumination systems, ITS, and signing.
• Coordinate with project managers and other teams to ensure all design aspects and timelines are met.
• Utilize computer software to design and review plans, perform lighting analysis, and prepare specifications, estimates, and schedules.
• Perform field visits to collect data for existing systems and inspect construction projects as needed.
• Assist in the design of new traffic signal systems and modifications to existing systems, including signal permit applications, warrant analysis, and capacity analysis.
• Support the design and implementation of ITS systems, including Variable Message Signs, camera systems, and communication systems.
• Assist in the design and installation of illumination systems for pedestrian crossings, roundabouts, and interchanges.

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:

Technical Engineering Knowledge

• Demonstrated knowledge of civil, structural, environmental, construction, mechanical, or transportation engineering principles, as evidenced by the ability to apply engineering concepts to analyze data, interpret plans or specifications, support design or project development activities, and resolve technical issues.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare and edit technical specifications in accordance with manuals and contract requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare engineer’s estimates, including quantity calculations, cost analysis, and documentation of assumptions.
• Demonstrated ability to accurately document design decisions, calculations, revisions, and supporting materials in project files.

Transportation Engineering Practice

• Experience applying engineering concepts, standards, and practices to transportation projects, including design and construction activities.

Engineering Technology and Software

• Knowledge and proficiency in computer applications, including engineering design software and computer-aided drafting tools.

Communication and Collaboration

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly to contractors, designers, colleagues, support offices, and the traveling public.
• Ability to foster positive working relationships in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments.

Growth Mindset

• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

Service-Oriented

• Takes action to meet the needs of others.

In addition, the following are also required:

• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to travel within the region to conduct field reviews and construction site inspections.
• Ability to traverse steep and uneven terrain adjacent to traffic.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

Contract Document and Project Plans

• Demonstrated ability to review contract documents for accuracy, constructability, and completeness prior to advertisement.
• Demonstrated ability to develop complete contract plan sets for transportation projects, including signal, illumination, ITS, and signing.

Advanced Engineering Software

• Competent in the use of Civil Engineering Software such as Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD), or other engineering software.
• Competent in the use of signal and illumination modeling software within one year of appointment.
• Experience with MicroStation Open Roads for plan sheet development per drafting standards.

Professional Certification

• Demonstrated knowledge and skills in engineering, which may be gained through formal education and/or professional experience.
• Certification as an Engineer-in-Training, or
• Licensed Professional Engineer in Washington State.

Electrical and Systems Design

• Experience working with the National Electrical Code.
• Experience designing electrical systems, preferably in a highway environment.
• Experience inspecting/installing electrical systems, preferably in a highway environment.

Construction Inspection and Traffic Operations

• Experience in construction inspection and documentation.
• Signal operations experience.
• Experience utilizing engineering principles and guidelines in evaluating traffic design and operations issues, including accident analysis, signal warrant analysis, traffic counts, directional volumes, and trip assignments.

*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• Travel within the region is required to conduct field reviews and construction site inspections.
• This position may require occasional overnight stays, up to a week at a time.

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 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.

The base salaries for each level are: Transportation Engineer 2: $71,472 – $96,144

• Transportation Engineer 1: $64,776 – $87,048

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 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 UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Daisha.Jordan@wsdot.wa.gov .

Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NCR-20008 in the subject line.