Highway Maintenance Worker 2 - Incident Response

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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The OpportunityWSDOT is currently seeking multiple Highway Maintenance Worker 2s to join the team out of Seattle in the Northwest Region. The WSDOT Northwest Region (NWR) Incident Response Team (IRT).

These positions are critical in reducing congestion by removing incidents as quickly and safely as possible to restore the state highway transportation system to its maximum operational capacity.

These positions would have public safety and the safety of fellow employees as a high priority and must be considered in every decision and activity.

These positions support and advance the IRT program towards WSDOT mission objectives that further support the National Unified Goal (NUG) and best practices for Traffic Incident Management (TIM) including responder safety; safe, quick clearance; and prompt, reliable interoperable communications while reducing congestion and keeping traffic and commerce moving safely.

What to ExpectThese positions involve exposure to severe weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, and heavy winds, as well as loud noises; dust, fumes, exhaust, and other air quality hazards; and limited visibility.

These roles also include working with hazardous materials and chemicals such as herbicides, gasoline, diesel, solvents, oils, lubricants, paint, cleaners, and hot asphalt up to 350 degrees.

Additionally, these positions may involve contact with bloodborne pathogens and waste, including human or animal waste, chemical waste, and discarded sharps.

These are full-time positions requiring a minimum of 40 hours per week, typically scheduled as four 10-hour shifts, Monday through Friday.

These incumbents must be able to work extended hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and be available for alternate or emergency shifts as needed to respond to unscheduled work, callouts, or emergency situations.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, these Highway Maintenance Worker 2’s will:

Operate an authorized emergency vehicle (Class A or B tow truck) with tow capabilities along an assigned route within the greater Seattle/Everett metropolitan area, including the Express Lanes and floating bridges.

Conduct routine patrols and respond to emergency callouts to help restore traffic flow.

Identify and address potential traffic hazards to keep traffic moving.

Assist the traveling public by removing debris, aiding disabled vehicles, performing minor mechanical repairs, adding fluids or fuel, changing flat tires, providing battery jumpstarts, and supporting other roadway emergencies as appropriate.

Respond to and clear incidents during peak commute periods.

Respond to calls for service broadcast by Washington State Patrol (WSP) or WSDOT Radio.

Obtain and maintain required certifications, including Flagging and First Aid/CPR, to safely perform essential duties.

Assist crews with setting up and performing emergency traffic control.

Serve as a first responder at collision scenes, spills, and other emergency situations, providing First Aid when necessary.

Provide the TMC with timely and accurate on-scene information and incident updates.

Operate two radio systems for communication: WSP high-band and WSDOT 700/800 MHz.

Patrol assigned roadways and corridors to ensure effective communication is occurring for all incidents on priority roads.

Respond to and coordinate with Washington State Patrol (WSP), incident command and emergency responders at incident scenes. Provide incident and traffic condition information to the Traffic Management Center for traveler information.

Maintain daily reports of the events that occur while on duty. Utilize the standard statewide incident data tracking (WITS), inputting incident tracking data daily.

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

• Highway Maintenance Expertise: Demonstrated skills in emergency response and debris removal.
• Licensing: Possession of an unrestricted Class A CDL with N endorsement to legally operate vehicles in Washington State; or obtain within twelve (12) months of hire.

Technical Expertise & Field Operations: Knowledge of roadway maintenance, construction practices, heavy equipment operation, truck driving, traffic control, timber operations, or landscaping.

Operate and maintain commercial vehicles requiring a valid, unrestricted Washington State Class A CDL, with the ability to obtain and maintain an “N” endorsement within required timeframes.

Demonstrate proficiency in safely performing emergency roadside operations such as tire changes, fuel assistance, jump starts, and deployment of appropriate traffic control devices.

Licensing & Certification: The ability to obtain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire.

The ability to obtain within 6 months of hire and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification. Completion of National Incident Management System (NIMS) Courses in FEMA ICS 100, 200, and 800.

Safety & Risk Management: Works safely and independently in high-traffic and hazardous environments, consistently applying safety protocols and situational awareness.

Use proper lifting techniques and safe handling practices when removing debris or performing physical tasks.

Completes required National Incident Management System (NIMS) training, including FEMA ICS 100, 200, and 800, and applies emergency response principles in field operations.

Communication & Coordination: Communicates clearly and concisely using multiple radio systems, electronic devices, and computer-based tools to relay information, coordinate activities, and support incident response.

Provides professional, calm, and customer-focused service during routine operations and high-stress or hazardous situations.

Workplace Professionalism: Contributes to a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment by demonstrating professionalism, cultural awareness, and support for equal opportunity practices.

Collaborates effectively with coworkers, partner agencies, and the public while maintaining a positive and solutions-oriented approach.

• Traffic Control & Work Zone Operations: Knowledge of traffic control practices following the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Ability to plan and implement safe work zones, including flagging, signage, and the use of cones/barrels.

Safety Awareness & Compliance: Strong understanding of workplace safety procedures and commitment to following safety policies, including confined space entry, fall protection, and hazardous material handling.

Ability to participate in the creation and implementation of Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP) and attend regular safety training.

• Technical & Administrative Proficiency: Skilled in the use of electronic systems for timekeeping, inventory management. Proficient in standard computer applications, including Microsoft Office, Teams and email communication.
• Teamwork & Leadership: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently in the field. Capable of leading a crew in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3, demonstrating sound decision-making and leadership skills.
• 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:

• Strong awareness of WSDOT highway maintenance procedures.
• Experience in traffic control per MUTCD including planning, setting signs and cones, and flagging operations.
• Be available for standby when assigned.
• Working knowledge of the WSDOT rules, policies, and procedures.
• Experience with radio communication equipment, computers, phones and other electronic equipment.
• Comfortable with working near high volume and high-speed traffic.

Important Notes

• This recruitment will be used to fill four permanent positions within the Northwest Region. This recruitment may also be used to fill additional vacant positions.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.

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 position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
• 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.
• 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 a 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 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 recruiter listed.

Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-12266em in the subject line.