CIVIL ENGINEER (STRUCTURAL)
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
FreshPosted Mar 12
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Posted: March 18, 2026 (0 days ago)
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Structural Lab Lead (TE2)
State of Washington
Dept. of Transportation
Location
Washington, 98504
Salary
$71,472 - $96,144
per year
Type
Full-Time
More Other jobs →Closes
April 2, 2026
Job Description
Summary
This job involves leading daily operations in labs that test construction materials like aggregates, concrete, and steel to ensure they're safe and reliable for Washington's transportation projects, such as highways and bridges.
You'll guide technicians, review test results, maintain equipment, and work with engineers to keep everything running smoothly with a focus on quality and safety.
It's a great fit for someone with hands-on experience in engineering labs who enjoys mentoring teams and solving technical problems in a fast-paced environment.
Key Requirements
- Demonstrated experience in semi-skilled technical engineering work, including data collection, field inspections, and materials testing
- Knowledge of materials testing procedures for aggregates, concrete, and steel
- Ability to safely operate laboratory and field equipment, including routine maintenance and calibration
- Proficiency in using specialized software for data input, analysis, and generating test reports
- ACI Strength Testing and Field-Testing certifications
- Experience applying engineering principles, AASHTO standards, and agency procedures to transportation projects
- Skills in training, mentoring staff, and coordinating with project engineers
Full Job Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence!
Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state.
In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is seeking a skilled Transportation Engineer 2 to join our Structural Materials Testing Section in Tumwater, WA.
In this role, you’ll support the Structural Lab Supervisor by helping lead daily operations across our aggregates, concrete, and steel laboratories assuring high-quality testing that supports critical transportation projects statewide.
This position plays a key role in training and mentoring staff, reviewing and analyzing test data, and ensuring compliance with agency standards and engineering best practices.
You’ll apply your technical expertise to solve complex materials testing challenges, maintain lab equipment and calibration records, and help deliver accurate, reliable results that keep projects moving forward.
With minimal supervision, you’ll plan and carry out assignments, contribute to continuous improvement efforts, and support a high-performing team dedicated to quality and safety in transportation infrastructure.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Structural Lab Lead will:
- Organize and track samples, directing, and reviewing the work of the Transportation Technicians conducting testing as directed by the TE3 Supervisor.
- Maintain qualifications in all associated testing and conduct testing in all labs as needed to meet the schedule.
- Troubleshoot and input data into several specialized software programs for testing steel and concrete test samples and producing test reports.
- Coordinate with project engineers to arrange delivery and testing of samples.
- Maintain ACI Strength Testing and Field-Testing certifications.
- Assist the supervisor with scheduling and prioritizing testing activities in the Aggregate, Concrete and Steel Laboratories.
- Read, comprehend, and follow all standard operating and testing procedures and pre-activity safety plans.
- Operate motor vehicles.
- Proficiently operate office, laboratory, and field equipment which includes but is not limited to computers, telephones, cell phones, and material testing equipment.
- Use equipment properly and conduct routine equipment maintenance as required.
- Maintain qualifications in assigned test procedures.
- Perform materials testing per the AASHTO standards.
- Maintain, Verify and Calibration of equipment as defined in the Quality Systems Manual and per the manufacturer’s instructions
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Engineering Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated experience performing semi-skilled technical engineering work (e.g., data collection, field inspections, materials testing, drafting) and applying engineering principles, methods, and standards to transportation projects.
- Materials Testing & Laboratory Operations: Demonstrated knowledge of materials testing procedures and the ability to safely operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments and equipment used in aggregates, concrete, and steel testing.
- Data Analysis & Problem Solving: Proven ability to analyze data, identify issues, and develop and recommend effective solutions to complex project elements, including adapting testing techniques to meet project needs.
- Plans, Specifications & Compliance Review: Skilled in reviewing engineering plans and specifications to ensure compliance with established standards, codes, and agency requirements.
- Tools, Technology & Equipment Use: Proficient in using engineering tools, software, and equipment to complete assignments accurately and efficiently.
- Communication: Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and effectively with diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing.
- Safety & Risk Management: Knowledge of workplace safety practices, construction procedures, and applicable regulations, with a strong commitment to performing work safely and following established safety policies.
- Workload Management & Independence: Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple assignments under tight deadlines with minimal supervision.
- Certifications: Possession of, or ability to obtain, ACI Strength Testing and Field Testing certifications.
- Emergency Preparedness & Continuity: Ability to support Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) responsibilities during emergency or disaster response and recovery efforts.
- Equity, Inclusion & Workplace Culture: Demonstrated ability to contribute to and support a respectful, inclusive work environment that promotes equity and equal opportunity.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
In addition, the following are required:
- Manipulate and carry 50 pounds of material or equipment
- Work with materials exceeding 325 degrees F
- Stand for long periods of time and walk long distances
- Work under time constraints using timers, stopwatches, etc.
- Work for periods of time which exceed normal shifts
- Work with a variety of chemicals in the laboratory setting
- Wear appropriate personal protection equipment and adequate clothing for specific work activity.
- Maintain qualifications in assigned test procedures
- This position requires cross training and qualifications in other laboratories that are part of the Construction Materials Division to assist as needed.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Certifications: WAQTC Qualifications in aggregate testing.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the “Contact Us” section of this posting.
- 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.
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 357-28of the Washington Administrative Code.
Why WSDOT
- Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
- 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 toState Benefitsfor 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, Amanda Strebeck, at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference Structural Lab Lead #01701 in the subject line.
Check your resume before applying to catch common mistakes