Design/Construction Engineer (TE2) In-Training | Multiple Positions

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 multiple Transportation Engineer 2s (TE2) In-Training to join the Project Engineer Offices (PEO) out of Chehalis, Kelso, and Vancouver, WA.

These roles support the agency’s mission by ensuring highway transportation projects are designed and built in compliance with standard specifications, contract specifications and contract plans.

The work of this position improves the safety, quality, and capacity of the State’s transportation system, and is placed in the position as a lead designer, inspector, and quality auditor of highway transportation projects.

This position supports the WSDOT strategic plan and agency emphasis areas of Inclusion, Workforce Development, and Resiliency.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Design/Construction Engineer will:

• Coordinate or perform site reviews and the collection of existing available data of the project area.
• From basic data, utilize CAD software to draft sheets for design reports and contract plans.
• Utilize manual methods or applicable computer software to create alignments, develop cross sections, determine earthwork quantities, calculate estimate costs, perform hydraulic analyses, and develop schedules.
• Provide oversight inspection of the construction work for conformance to the Contract and environmental permits.
• Prepare detailed and accurate contract documentation and engineering reports that support design.
• Monitor quantity and quality of materials placed; verify materials are approved prior to incorporation into the project.
• Evaluate, track and obtain approval of contractor submittals; monitor construction schedule and budget; assist in preparation of change order documentation.

Inspection work may include exposure to adverse weather conditions and traversing uneven terrain for both day and night operations. Occasional extended hours may be required and may need to work nights; may need to adjust schedule in accordance with contractor schedules during inspection season.

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 at any level, the following are required:

• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification and American Concrete (ACI) in assigned test methods or ability to obtain within one (1) year of hire.

To be considered for this opportunity at the Transportation Engineer 1 level, the following competencies are required:

• Technical Engineering Knowledge: Bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering OR certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT); Basic understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles obtained through education, practical experience; Basic understanding of engineering concepts, standards, and practices and its application to real-world, beginning level transportation project scenarios, including design, materials, and construction activities.

• Technical Competence: Skills in assisting with inspection, testing, and documentation of construction materials to ensure compliance with agency and industry specifications; Ability to interpret engineering plans, specifications, and contract documents to support field and office engineering functions.

• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Knowledge/Understanding of identifying, analyzing, and resolving technical issues using sound engineering judgement; Skills in evaluating data, test results, and site conditions to ensure compliance with project requirements.

• Communication: Skills in communicating effectively with project teams, contractors, and stakeholders in both verbal and written formats; Ability to prepare accurate reports, field notes, and correspondence related to construction inspection and materials testing under the supervision of higher-level engineer.

• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have the following at the Transportation Engineer 1 level:

• Construction Inspection Skills: Beginning level design or construction inspection working experience gained through an internship or work experience on transportation engineering projects.

To be considered for this opportunity at the Transportation Engineer 2 level, the following competencies are required:

• Technical Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated experience applying foundational and advanced knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles obtained through education, practical experience, or certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT); Ability to apply engineering concepts, standards, and practices to real-world transportation project scenarios, including design, materials, and construction activities.

• Technical Competence: Skills in performing inspection, testing, and documentation of construction materials to ensure compliance with agency and industry specifications; Ability to interpret engineering plans, specifications, and contract documents to support field and office engineering functions.

• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrated experience identifying, analyzing, and resolving technical issues using sound engineering judgement; Skills in evaluating data, test results, and site conditions to ensure compliance with project requirements and recommending corrective actions when necessary.

• Communication: Skills in communicating effectively with project teams, contractors, and stakeholders in both verbal and written formats; Ability to give guidance or prepare accurate reports, field notes, and correspondence related to construction inspection and materials testing.

• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have the following at the Transportation Engineer 2 level:

• Integrated Project Delivery & Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated competency in all aspects of project delivery—including scoping, design, developing procurement documents, construction inspection/compliance, and construction administration—supported by certification as an Engineer-In-Training.

Important Notes

• This recruitment will be used to fill multiple permanent positions in the Southwest Region, including Chehalis, Vancouver, and Kelso, WA. This recruitment may also be used to fill additional vacated positions.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.

Regular travel to and from construction sites to perform inspection and/or materials testing in assigned geographic area; occasional travel to other office locations to attend meetings or training.

Occasionally, may need to stay out of town overnight for an extended period of time to oversee construction projects.

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 1: $64,776 – $87,048

• Transportation Engineer 2: $71,472 – $96,144

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 Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at alyssa.nastasi@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-SWR-40127m in the subject line.