Hydraulics Engineer Assistant (TE3) 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 a Transportation Engineer 3 for the North Central Region (NCR) Environmental Office to serve as a technical and regulatory specialist in the field of Hydraulics.

This position provides hydraulic related support to ensure compliance with the Highway Runoff Manual, Hydraulic Manual, and environmental regulations including the Clean Water Act, National Environmental Policy Act, State Environmental Policy Act, Washington State Hydraulic Code, National Pollution Discharge Elimination System, and other WSDOT policies and guidance.

What to Expect

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

• Provide technical assistance, training, mentoring, and expertise to design offices, consultant staff, and local agencies.
• Evaluate the condition and operation of existing hydraulic facilities.
• Review construction documents and make recommendations to the Region Hydraulics Engineer.
• Review internal hydraulic design reports and design plans.
• Support the Region Hydraulics Engineer in the development of hydraulic designs.
• Drive to sites across the region to conduct field investigations to evaluate existing highway facilities and make recommendations to support scoping, design, construction, and maintenance of drainage and hydrology systems.
• Coordinate with other agency personnel on design features related to hydraulic, water quality, and permitting issues related to State highways.

Field investigations, while administrative in nature, may be conducted within a field site, roadway, construction, or right of way activity in inclement weather. Exposure to hazards may include exhaust, high-speed traffic, steep or uneven terrain, and/or heavy construction equipment.

Qualifications

This is a Transportation Engineer 3 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 for either level:

• Engineering and Analytical Proficiency: Demonstrated knowledge and ability to apply engineering and mathematical principles to solve transportation design, construction, or maintenance challenges.
• Technical Understanding: Ability to read, interpret, evaluate, and produce detailed engineering documents, including plans, specifications, and estimates, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and compliance with standards.
• Digital and Data Literacy: Proficiency in computer-based tools such as Microsoft Office products for data analysis, reporting, and project coordination.
• Communication and Collaboration: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain technical information clearly and collaborate effectively with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders.
• Operational Readiness: Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle and maintain a valid driver’s license to perform field and project-related duties. Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
• Respectful Workplace: Demonstrated ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required for the Transportation Engineer 2 (TE2) level:

• Foundational Engineering Competence: Demonstrated understanding of civil engineering, geology, or related disciplines and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical engineering problems.
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze data, identify challenges, and develop sound engineering solutions that align with agency policies and technical standards.
• Learning Agility: Ability and willingness to learn and apply new methods, technologies, and procedures to support ongoing professional growth and effective project delivery.

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required for the Transportation Engineer 3 (TE3) level:

• Advanced Technical Application: Demonstrated ability to independently apply advanced engineering concepts to complex transportation or environmental design, construction, or analysis tasks.
• Project Coordination and Quality Assurance: Ability to plan, organize, and review technical work, ensuring that project outcomes meet established standards, timelines, and quality expectations.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Demonstrated ability to provide technical guidance, mentorship, and support to less experienced staff while fostering a collaborative and learning-oriented team environment.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Professional Credentialing: Certification as an Engineering-in-Training (EIT) or progression of, or progress toward, licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Washington.
• Specialized Knowledge: Familiarity with WSDOT’s Hydraulic Runoff Manual and Design Manual, with the ability to apply design criteria to transportation and hydraulic projects.
• Software Proficiency: Demonstrated experience using Bentley MicroStation, InRoads, and/or OpenRoads.
• Modeling and Analytical Tools: Ability to use and interpret outputs from hydrologic and hydraulic modeling software such as HEC-RAS, SRH2-D, MGSFlood, and StormShed, including the capacity to evaluate and calibrate models to support decision-making for complex water and transportation systems.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• Some travel is required to review project locations and conduct field investigations and construction oversight, attend trainings and meetings.

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 3 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 3: $78,912 – $106,104

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 26DOT-NCR-24735 in the subject line.