Transportation Engineer 2 | Multiple Positions

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 multiple Transportation Engineer 2 positions to serve as Lead Inspector and Materials Tester in the South Central Region.

In these roles, Transportation Engineer 2 employees perform skilled engineering work in support of WSDOT engineering and construction projects.

These positions represent WSDOT, overseeing and supporting the Field Engineer in the execution of critical construction activities.

In addition, these positions may serve as design team leaders, coordinating and directing team members to achieve project objectives.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 2 will:

• Serve as lead project inspector involving complex projects for highways and highway structures.
• Serve as materials tester, ensuring all material testing needs are met.
• May lead or work with survey crew in the layout of construction projects.
• Assist Field Engineer in planning and scheduling team member's inspection activities; train and mentor junior inspectors in the inspection procedures, contract standards and other aspects relating to the construction duties and functions.
• Prepare contract field documents and records; prepare and check calculations for all pay notes, tickets, and invoices for accuracy, completeness, and proper documentation.
• Assure accurate and documented contract payments are made, material documentation is complete and accurate, that the final estimate and records are processed accurately and in a timely manner.
• Interact with contractors’ personnel at the field and head office levels; interact with local agencies personnel on their projects administered by project office.

During non-construction months (between 2 to 6 months a year) core hours are Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM with flexible and/or compressed work weeks allowed depending on business needs.

During construction months (between 6 to 10 months a year) work hours are dependent on the contract and may require long hours, weekends, holidays, and different shifts including nighttime work.

Hazards in the fields are those commonly found outdoors, including uneven terrain, wetlands area, traffic, weather conditions from 100 degrees F plus to below freezing.

Qualifications

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

Foundational Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, typically acquired through formal education or equivalent on-the-job experience (e.g., experience equivalent to a Transportation Engineer 1 or Transportation Technician 3).

Ability to apply engineering concepts to real-world scenarios.

Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Skilled in reading, analyzing and interpreting contract plans, specifications, manuals and other WSDOT documents in accordance with project requirements and engineering standards.

Communication and Interpersonal Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate technical information clearly to a variety of stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and the public.

Inspection Documentation: Proficient in conducting roadway or bridge construction inspection and documentation in accordance with industry standards.

Physical Ability: Capable to safely transport materials and equipment up to 40 pounds (75 pounds with assistance) throughout the work shift on various terrains and in varying climates.

Field Materials Testing: Proficient in conducting construction and field materials testing (e.g., soil, asphalt, concrete) in accordance with industry standards.

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:

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Research and Analytical Skills/Abilities: Experience utilizing the Design Manual, Construction Manual, Plans Prep Manual, Standard Plans, Standard Specifications, and other WSDOT manuals and policies when developing and documenting the design or construction of transportation projects.
• Certification as a Traffic Control Flagger.

Important Notes

• This recruitment will be used to fill four (4) permanent positions within the South Central Region. This recruitment may also be used to fill additional vacated positions.
• Application review will begin on January 22, 2026. Candidate selection may take place at any time thereafter. It is to your advantage to apply as soon as possible.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.

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. 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 25DOT-SCR-50996m in the subject line.