Sign Shop Lead (MS3)

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 Maintenance Specialist 3 to join South Central Region’s (SCR) Central Sign Shop.

The Central Sign Shop is the sole sign fabrication and distribution organization for the entire agency.

This position leads the sign fabrication crew in the fast paced, high volume manufacturing facility that provides quality signage to WSDOT Engineering, Regional Maintenance Operations, Aviation and WSDOT Ferries Operations and other agencies.

The staff is dedicated to performing this challenge, as well as integrating the WSDOT Strategic Plan Goal Areas of Inclusion, Practical Solutions and Workforce Development.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Sign Shop Lead will:

• Lead crew in the fabrication of traffic signs for WSDOT, State Agencies, Cities and Counties.
• Fabricate signs using graphic design software, digital printers, plotters, roller application tables and metal shearing equipment; design, layout and fabricate signs using MUTCD and WA State Sign Fabrication Manuals, and verify and ensure all layouts meet the requirements.
• Assist manager with maintaining and troubleshooting shop equipment.
• Monitor printing of signs and complete process of sign fabrication for quality and quantity accuracy.
• Assist manager prioritizing, scheduling and assigning work to crew members.
• Use the Sign Order System to enter orders, monitor and track orders.
• Perform tasks following WSDOT safety program, policies and directives.

Core business hours are from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday; weekends and holidays may be required to respond to non-scheduled call-out emergencies. May require working long hours, including nights.

Qualifications

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

Sign Fabrication Experience & Technical Expertise: Demonstrated experience in sign fabrication or manufacturing, with the ability to perform and oversee sign fabrication and distribution using graphic design software, digital printers, plotters, roller application tables, and metal shearing equipment.

Ability to design, layout, and fabricate signs following MUTCD and WA State Sign Fabrication Manuals, ensuring all layouts meet required standards.

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

Ability to participate in and help implement Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP) and engage in regular safety training.

Leadership, Personnel Management & Workforce Coordination: Demonstrated ability to Lead, Support, and Develop Personnel. Ability to support team development and uphold WSDOT’s workforce development and inclusion goals.

Customer Service, Communication & Interagency Collaboration: Ability to coordinate with customers and partner agencies, including WSDOT Engineering, Regional Maintenance Operations, Aviation, Ferries, and other external clients.

Strong communication skills to ensure accurate order processing, timely updates, and high-quality customer service.

Technical Systems Proficiency, Standards Compliance & Operational Adaptability: Proficient in using and training others to use sign design software and the Sign Order System, including entering, tracking, and monitoring orders.

Ability to ensure compliance with state and federal standards, troubleshoot and maintain shop equipment, monitor sign printing processes, and respond to miscellaneous operational or managerial duties as required.

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:

• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Forklift certification or the ability to obtain within six (6) months from date of hire.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and stand for lengthy periods of time.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.

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 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-SCR-50010 in the subject line.