Independent Assurance Inspector (TE3)

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 OpportunityWSDOT is currently seeking an Independent Assurance Inspector (Transportation Engineer 3) to support our mission of providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options that strengthen communities and economic vitality across Washington State.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of materials testing procedures by evaluating and verifying the qualifications of materials testers within the Northwest Region.

The successful candidate will provide targeted training, ongoing technical support, and conduct annual follow-up reviews to promote consistent testing practices.

This work directly supports the delivery of high-quality transportation projects that meet WSDOT standards and public expectations.What to ExpectAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Independent Assurance Inspector will:

• Schedule and proctor WAQTC written and hands-on examinations for initial certifications, field observations, and annual evaluations.
• Conduct Independent Assurance Assessments of qualified materials testers to ensure compliance with WSDOT, AASHTO, and WAQTC standards.
• Document and report examination and evaluation results to the Headquarters (HQ) Materials Lab, including hands-on acceptance testing performance.
• Review and audit project office materials testing activities for soil and HMA density, aggregates, HMA mix testing, concrete placement, and other acceptance testing methods.
• Provide guidance and feedback to project office materials testers to support accurate and consistent testing practices.
• Maintain WAQTC certification records and method tester qualification documentation using Microsoft Office Suite.
• Support Northwest Region project engineering offices by providing technical assistance with materials testing, specifications, and materials acceptance programs/software.
• Obtain aggregate samples from pit and quarry sources and submit samples to the HQ Materials Lab for testing and inclusion in the Aggregate Source Approval (ASA) database.

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

• Material testing experience in support of large transportation construction projects.
• Knowledge of AASHTO and WAQTC test procedures and Field Operating Procedures (FOP).

Technology and Software Skills:

• Working knowledge of basic Microsoft software products.

Communication Skills:

• Ability to communicate policy, standards, and technical information effectively using verbal, written, and visual communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision.

Growth Mindset:

• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

Service-Oriented:

• Takes action to meet the needs of others.

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

• Certification from the American Concrete Institute (ACI) for concrete testing procedures.
• Certification from the WAQTC for Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA), Aggregate, and Embankment/HMA density testing procedures or the ability to obtain these within the first six months of employment.
• Completion of Nuclear Gauge Safety and Operation training course or ability to complete this training within the first six months of employment.
• Completion of HAZMAT for the Nuclear Gauge training course, along with possession of a detection badge or the ability to complete this training and obtain a detection badge within the first six months of employment.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.

It is preferredthat qualified candidates also have:

• Training and Mentoring: Experience mentoring or training staff in materials testing.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• Occasional work is performed outdoors on roadways and active construction sites. This position may be exposed to hazards such as uneven terrain, steep slopes, working near heavy machinery, exposure to radiation, and working in proximity to traffic.
• 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.

• 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 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 UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at yasmin.munoz@wsdot.wa.gov.

Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-10261 in the subject line.