Avalanche Forecast & Control Specialist - Seasonal

Full Job Description

About WSDOTThe 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 Avalanche Forecast & Control Specialist (ACFS) supports the Avalanche Forecast Team, primarily in the South-Central Region.

The team makes it possible for people and businesses to travel safely on our state highways through effective and efficient management of snow and avalanche related risks.

The Avalanche Forecast & Control Specialist considers personal, co-worker, and public safety the primary objective while planning and performing all activities and work assignments.

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

• Observe and collect data on avalanches, snow structure, and meteorological conditions, including the snowpack's physical, mechanical, and thermal properties.
• Identify and assess key factors and patterns in these data to develop an avalanche hazard assessment using the Conceptual Model of Avalanche Hazard.
• Communicate current and forecasted weather and avalanche conditions verbally and in writing to partners, including potential hazard and risk mitigation strategies.
• Assist with installing and maintaining automated weather stations, snowpack monitoring equipment, and explosives delivery systems, including remote avalanche control systems (RACS).
• Provide instruction to internal and external partners on avalanche safety and rescue techniques. These tasks involve traveling in mountainous areas and on highways. Mountain travel may include climbing, skiing, and hiking on steep, uneven terrain, sometimes in deep snow.

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

License and Certifications: Maintain a Valid State Driver’s License and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles. Or obtained within 6 months of hire date.

Minimum Pro 1 level avalanche education per American Avalanche Association (AAA) guidelines for professional avalanche workers or documented equivalency (e.g. work experience or similar training).

Valid Washington State Explosives User License for Avalanche Control (or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire).

Avalanche and Roadway Control Proficiency: Demonstrated ability and knowledge of safe handling and use of explosives.

Demonstrated knowledge and application of modern avalanche and weather forecasting techniques, including the collection of snowpack and weather observations following AAA Snow, Weather and Avalanche Guidelines.

Demonstrated professional experience performing avalanche control, avalanche forecasting, or active participation in a snow safety program, which includes applied snow, weather, and avalanche observations, and knowledge of avalanche rescue techniques.

Skilled in ski mountaineering and travel in complex avalanche terrain. Ability to endure heat, cold, wind, humidity, and precipitation for extended periods while working outside.

Technical and Administrative Proficiency: Skilled in the use of electronic systems for snow profiles, avalanche-related observations, and inventory management, (e.g., SnowPilot, MS Excel/Access). Proficient in standard computer applications including Microsoft Office and email communication.

In addition to one of the above, the following are also required:

• Adaptability & Decision-Making in Dynamic Environments: Ability to respond quickly and accurately to ambiguous situations in a dynamic environment.
• Mountain Travel & Backcountry Mobility: Ability to travel safely and competently in mountainous terrain on skis and by foot, covering significant elevation in deep snow while carrying heavy loads.
• Working at Heights & Climbing Safety: Ability to climb towers and ladders and safely perform work at elevated heights.
• Vehicle & Equipment Operation: Ability to independently operate vehicles, over-the-snow vehicles, and occasionally heavy equipment.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Applied Snow & Physical Science Knowledge: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience.
• Explosives Licensing & Regulatory Compliance: Possession of a valid Washington State Explosives User License or ATF Employee Possessor Clearance.
• Remote Avalanche Control Systems (RACS) Operations: Experience with Remote Avalanche Control Systems used for avalanche hazard mitigation.
• Emergency Medical & Wilderness Response Training: Certification or training in Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC), or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
• Weather Station Systems Operation & Troubleshooting: Experience operating and troubleshooting weather station sensors and systems, particularly Campbell Scientific, Inc. equipment.

Important Notes

• This is a seasonal position that may last up to 10 months.

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 recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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.

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.

Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at sidra.fields@wadot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference Avalanche – 5S119 in the subject line.