Transportation Planning Technician 3
State of Washington
FreshPosted Mar 11
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Posted: March 10, 2026 (3 days ago)
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Transportation Geophysicist (TTE)
State of Washington
Dept. of Transportation
Location
Washington, 98504
Salary
$96,144 - $129,288
per year
Type
Full-Time
More Science & Research jobs →Closes
March 25, 2026
Job Description
Summary
This job involves leading geophysical surveys and data analysis to help plan and build safe transportation infrastructure like roads and bridges in Washington State.
The role requires traveling to project sites to assess underground conditions using specialized tools and techniques, then sharing expert advice with engineering teams.
It's a great fit for someone with strong technical skills in earth sciences who enjoys fieldwork, problem-solving, and working collaboratively on big public projects.
Key Requirements
- Expertise in geophysics and geotechnical investigations
- Advanced skills in data interpretation and analysis from geophysical surveys
- Experience with remote sensing technologies and innovative geophysical methods
- Proficiency in planning, coordinating, and executing field surveys
- Knowledge of specialized techniques like cone penetration testing (CPT) and vane shear testing
- Strong engineering judgment and ability to provide technical leadership
- Comfort with fieldwork, including travel, outdoor conditions, and safety protocols
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 seeking a highly skilled technical engineer to serve as the statewide technical authority in geophysics, leading the integration of geophysical science with geological and engineering principles to support transportation infrastructure projects across Washington.
The Transportation Geophysicist will provide expert leadership in geophysical surveying, advanced data analysis, and the application of remote sensing technologies to improve subsurface characterization and inform geotechnical planning and design decisions.
In this role, you will direct geophysical investigations, advance the use of innovative technologies, and establish best practices for methodologies such as cone penetration testing (CPT), vane shear testing, and other specialized techniques used to evaluate complex subsurface conditions.
By exercising independent professional judgment and providing expert consultation across the agency, this position will strengthen the technical foundation of WSDOT’s transportation program and support safe, resilient infrastructure delivery.
Strong candidates will possess expertise in geophysics and geotechnical investigations, advanced data interpretation skills, experience with remote sensing technologies, sound engineering judgment, and the ability to provide technical leadership and collaborative guidance across multidisciplinary teams.
What to Expect
This position is required to perform work that includes regular travel throughout Washington State to conduct field investigations and geophysical surveys at project sites.
Field investigations include outdoor conditions at construction and survey sites, including exposure to weather, uneven terrain, heavy equipment, and potential hazards associated with drilling operations and geophysical survey equipment.
May require working at heights or in confined spaces, depending on project requirements.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Geophysicist will:
- Plan, coordinate, and execute geophysical surveys using various geophysical instruments and methodologies.
- Perform interpretation and analysis of geophysical data collected during field surveys.
- Apply specialized knowledge of geophysical principles to assess subsurface conditions.
- Prepare comprehensive geophysical survey reports and technical documentation.
- Coordinate with project teams and field personnel to ensure proper survey execution.
- Utilize specialized geophysical software and analysis tools to process field data.
- Maintain and calibrate geophysical survey equipment.
- Ensure compliance with safety protocols and industry standards.
- Perform CPT data analysis and post-processing to develop engineering deliverables.
- Incorporate new remote sensing technology and develop vendor relationships.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
Geophysical & Geotechnical Expertise
- Experience conducting geophysical surveys and geotechnical field investigations to assess subsurface conditions and support engineering decisions.
- Ability to operate and maintain geophysical survey equipment, CPT systems, and electronic data acquisition systems in varying field conditions.
- Knowledge of geophysical survey methods, geotechnical engineering principles, soil mechanics, and CPT testing procedures to ensure accurate data collection and interpretation.
- Ability to research, evaluate, and integrate emerging geophysical and remote sensing technologies to enhance investigation capabilities and maintain current industry practices.
- Experience with or ability to quickly learn specialized testing methods including vane shear testing, measurement while drilling (MWD) systems, and soil strength analysis to develop best practices and procedures.
Data Analysis & Technical Problem-Solving
- Ability to interpret complex geotechnical and geophysical data to identify subsurface conditions, anomalies, and potential engineering concerns.
- Experience using data analysis software and database management systems to process, organize, and maintain technical project information.
- Ability to prepare comprehensive technical reports, data packages, and engineering deliverables that integrate geophysical and geotechnical data for use by engineers and geologists.
Technology Evaluation & Innovation
- Ability to research, evaluate, and integrate emerging geophysical and remote sensing technologies to enhance investigation capabilities and maintain current industry practices.
- Ability to assess vendor capabilities, coordinate technology demonstrations, and evaluate cost benefit analysis of new technology implementations.
Project Coordination & Communication
- Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines while coordinating with vendors, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams in a dynamic work environment.
- Ability to communicate technical geotechnical and geophysical information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences including engineers, project managers, and non-technical stakeholders.
- Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with engineers, geologists, technical specialists, and private sector vendors.
Growth Mindset
- Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Service-Oriented
- Takes action to meet the needs of others.
The following qualifications are also required:
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
- Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work independently in field conditions, including adverse weather, while maintaining high attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Advanced Technical Experience
- Demonstrated competency in geotechnical consulting for transportation projects, including advanced knowledge of transportation geotechnics principles and proven ability to apply geotechnical analysis in transportation infrastructure environments.
- Experience with measurement while drilling (MWD) systems, vane shear testing, and soil strength analysis to enhance subsurface characterization capabilities.
- Experience with photogrammetry and remote sensing applications for geotechnical investigations.
Specialized Software & Analysis Tools
- Experience with geotechnical software packages (e.g., gINT, NovoLOG, CPeT-IT) to streamline data processing and reporting.
- Experience with GIS systems and spatial data analysis to visualize and interpret geotechnical information geographically.
- Experience with programming languages (Python, R, or MATLAB) to automate data analysis and develop custom technical solutions.
- Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and database management for complex data handling and presentation.
Regulatory & Organizational Knowledge
- Knowledge of WSDOT standards, procedures, and federal/state regulations governing geotechnical investigations to ensure project compliance.
- Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control procedures to maintain data integrity and reporting accuracy.
Vendor & Contract Management
- Experience preparing technical specifications and scopes of work for vendor-performed geophysical surveys and coordinating external technical work.
- Ability to review and validate vendor-collected data for quality and accuracy to ensure deliverables meet agency standards and project specifications.
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position requires regular travel throughout the state to conduct field investigations and geophysical surveys at project sites, including remote locations and areas of the state right-of-way that are inaccessible to the public, such as highway shoulders and active construction zones.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- 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, 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 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
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 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 of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may 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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-05558 in the subject line.
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