Engineering Technician II
City of Tacoma
FreshPosted Jan 21
✓ Fresh Listing
Posted: January 21, 2026 (1 day ago)
This job was posted recently. Fresh listings typically have less competition.
Engineering Intern
State of Washington
Dept. of Transportation
Location
Washington, 98504
Salary
$3,840 - $5,137
per month
Type
Full Time
More Engineering jobs →Closes
March 31, 2026More State jobs →
Job Description
Summary
This internship offers college students a chance to work on real-world transportation projects at Washington's Department of Transportation, helping with tasks like inspecting construction sites, testing materials, and preparing reports under the guidance of experienced engineers.
It's ideal for civil engineering students eager to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting and gain hands-on experience in building and maintaining roads, bridges, and other infrastructure.
The role emphasizes learning, teamwork, and attention to detail in a supportive environment.
Key Requirements
- Currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program in Civil Engineering or a closely related field
- Ability to understand and interpret basic civil engineering concepts, including construction drawings, plans, and technical documents
- Proficiency in using computers and standard office software for assignments and project support
- Capability to learn and apply engineering-related software or technical tools
- Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail for analyzing information and following procedures accurately
- Clear verbal and written communication skills for sharing technical information professionally
- Ability to collaborate with team members, follow directions, and ask clarifying questions
Full Job Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence!
Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state.
In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is now accepting applications for summer interns!
These paid engineering internships offer currently enrolled students the chance to take what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it to real transportation projects that serve communities across the state.
As a Transportation Engineer (TE) Intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience with engineering concepts, tools, and procedures, working alongside experienced professionals and making meaningful contributions to real-life work
What to Expect
Under the direct guidance and mentorship of an experienced Engineer, TE Interns will assist in a variety of entry-level engineering duties, to include:
- Construction office engineering with tasks such as checking calculations of elevations, grades, earthwork, etc.
- Field inspections with tasks such as collecting material samples, performing materials testing, preparing field note records, and collecting tickets
- Preparation of contract change orders
- Preparation of design reports; traffic data, access reports, environmental documentation, and research
- Preparation of plans, specification and estimates
- Compilation of final records
- Collection of data and general reporting
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Education Eligibility (Statutory Requirement)
- Meets the education eligibility requirements for student employment (internship) as outlined in RCW 43.06.420 and currently enrollment in an accredited educational institution for an undergraduate degree program for Civil Engineering or another closely related field of study.
- Foundational Engineering Knowledge
- Demonstrated ability to understand and interpret basic civil engineering concepts, including construction drawings, plans, and technical documents, as applied through coursework or hands-on learning.
- Applied Learning & Technical Proficiency
- Demonstrated ability to use computers and standard office software to complete assignments, organize information, and support project tasks.
- Demonstrated ability to learn and apply engineering-related software or technical tools relevant to civil engineering work.
- Analytical Thinking & Attention to Detail
- Demonstrated ability to analyze information, identify discrepancies, and follow established procedures with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Communication & Collaboration
- Demonstrated ability to communicate technical or project-related information clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with team members, follow direction, and ask clarifying questions when needed.
- Reliability & Professional Responsibility
- Demonstrated ability to follow safety protocols, organizational standards, and instructions in a work or learning environment.
- Physical & Environmental Work Capabilities(Essential Job Functions)
- Demonstrated ability to safely move, carry, and transport materials or equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.
- Demonstrated ability to safely move and work on uneven terrain such as construction sites or field locations.
- Demonstrated ability and willingness to work outdoors and perform duties in varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions.
- A valid driver's license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle for travel to job sites during work hours.
Important Notes
- Internships are temporary employment opportunities for students working toward an undergraduate degree (RCW 43.06.420).
- This recruitment will be used to fill multiple Intern positions in various regions throughout the state.
- Application review will begin on March 1,2026. Candidate selection may take place at any time thereafter. It is to your advantage to apply as soon as possible.
- 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.wa.gov.
Why WSDOT
- Paid Leave – In addition to 10 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 paid vacation days per year!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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 your experience to date (in reverse chronological order)
- 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
- Two letters of recommendation are also strongly encouraged, but not required to be considered. Letters of recommendation should be from individuals who can attest to your work ethic, technical skills, and job-related competencies.
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.wa.gov.
Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, please send an email to JobInfo@wsdot.wa.gov. Be sure to add "TE Intern" in the subject line.
Check your resume before applying to catch common mistakes