Sr. Cement Finisher

Full Job Description

Join us in shaping Seattle’s streets!

At the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), we don’t just move people—we connect communities, build safer streets, and create a more sustainable city. With a bold vision for the future, we’re tackling big challenges: making travel safer, cutting carbon emissions, and ensuring reliable, affordable transportation for everyone—no matter who they are or where they live. Seattle is growing fast, and we’re growing with it. Thanks to a historic voter-approved $1.55 billion investment in transportation in 2024, we’re building sidewalks, fixing bridges, and improving transit connections to keep our city moving. We’re a team of problem solvers, planners, engineers, communicators, and field crews—bringing purpose-driven work to life. Now, we need passionate, innovative talent like you. Let’s build a Seattle that works for everyone—together!

The Roadway Structures Division is seeking a qualified Senior Cement Finisher to perform skilled structural concrete repair work across the city’s infrastructure.

This position involves the demolition, removal, and replacement of deteriorated concrete on fixed and movable bridges, retaining walls, stairways, areaways, and other reinforced concrete structures.

Duties will frequently include working at heights and in elevated or exposed positions, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and use of fall protection equipment.

The Senior Cement Finisher will also be expected to assist during emergency response situations and will report directly to the Concrete Maintenance Crew Chief.

Requirements

• Perform skilled concrete work on bridges, approaches, retaining walls, stairways, areaways, and other reinforced concrete structures—this includes demolition, rebar tying, form construction, placement, finishing, and shaping.
• Repair and reconstruct sidewalks, ADA-accessible ramps, and roadways, with particular focus on structural concrete spall repairs on elevated surfaces using scaffolding, lifts, or U-Bit buckets at heights exceeding 50 feet.
• Restore and install decorative pavement elements such as cobblestones, sidewalk tiles, and architectural brick.
• Use epoxy binders and pressurized injection equipment to reinforce concrete integrity. Conduct sandblasting as needed for surface preparation.
• Assist with structural inspections and prepare accurate repair estimates. Plan repair work, including materials, labor, and traffic control measures.
• Lead and guide assigned personnel, ensuring all work adheres to safety protocols—especially while working at heights and in potentially hazardous conditions.
• Respond promptly to emergency repair needs, regardless of weather or time of day.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
Completion of a journey-level cement finisher apprenticeship program or three years of related experience in concrete construction, installation, and repair. (Combinations of education, training and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability).

License, Certification and Other Requirements

• Current Washington State driver's license.

Other Requirements:

This role involves physically demanding work and a strong commitment to public service. Candidates should be prepared for the following:

• Standing, walking, bending, and working on your feet for extended periods.
• Regularly lifting and moving objects weighing over 50 pounds.
• Handling materials that may be considered hazardous, with proper protective equipment and safety measures in place.
• Performing duties outdoors in all weather conditions and near active traffic.
• Working at elevated heights, sometimes over 70 feet above ground or water, using lifts, scaffolding, or other equipment.
• Being available for overtime, irregular shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed to respond to urgent repair needs or emergencies.
• Participating in an on-call rotation, with the possibility of being called to work 24/7.

Additional Information

Hiring Process
Applications are reviewed after the posting closes. Qualified candidates must submit the following to be considered:

1. Completed NEOGOV online application.
2. Cover letter describing how your skills and experience align with the stated job responsibilities and qualifications.
3. Current résumé indicating relevant experience and education.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package, including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and covered family-members/most employees-plans