Transportation Planning Intern | Multiple

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 Planning Interns to provide college students and recent graduates with meaningful, hands-on experience in the transportation planning profession. These positions offer practical exposure to real-world planning processes, concepts, and tools while supporting Region Planning staff on a variety of planning efforts. Interns may assist with planning studies, program support, community engagement, technical analysis, and research. Work products may include written summaries, research briefs, maps and graphics, GIS and StoryMap content, presentations, dashboards, and other communication materials tailored to the intended audience. Assignments may span areas such as multimodal and Complete Streets planning, safety analysis, equity and environmental justice support, land use coordination, long-range planning, data collection and performance measurement, freight planning, project development support, and policy or grant research.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Planning Intern will:

• Assist with organizing and supporting community engagement activities such as meetings, workshops, listening sessions, focus groups, tabling, and partner events.
• Prepare accessible and audience-appropriate engagement materials using plain language, visuals, and ADA considerations.
• Develop and distribute outreach materials, including flyers, presentations, email content, StoryMap/web content, and social media messaging, to encourage public participation.
• Document community questions, feedback themes, and follow-up items to support planning staff and project teams.
• Analyze demographic and geographic data to identify equity considerations and historically overburdened or vulnerable populations.
• Collect and summarize research, datasets, and background materials to provide concise findings and planning-level recommendations.
• Create maps, graphics, and visual materials using GIS and other tools to illustrate transportation context, community assets, and environmental features.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners, participate in meetings and trainings, and support collaboration and follow-through on planning activities.

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

• Education/Academic Preparation: Completion of at least two semesters or three quarters (or equivalent) of coursework toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree in urban planning, transportation planning, community planning, geography, public policy, environmental studies, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.
• Transportation Planning Knowledge: Understanding of urban and transportation planning principles and practices, including active transportation modes such as walking, cycling, micro-mobility, as well as mobility assistance devices used as accommodation for a disability.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to assess data, identify problems, and apply logical solutions.
• Communication: Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in both written and verbal formats with team members and supervisors.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with others to support shared goals, project coordination, and successful outcomes.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Ability to identify concerns, contribute to solutions, and make sound decisions with guidance and direction.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to produce accurate work and ensure quality in written, technical, and administrative work products.
• Time Management and Organization: Ability to plan, prioritize, and complete tasks within established deadlines.
• Adaptability and Willingness to Learn: Ability to adjust to changing priorities, learn new tools or methods, and apply feedback to improve performance.
• Professionalism and Integrity: Ability to follow safety protocols, maintain professional conduct, and demonstrate ethical decision-making and accountability.
• Use of Technology and Software Proficiency: Ability to use software tools to support planning, research, documentation, mapping, analysis, and communication.
• 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:

• Ability to conduct site visits to various locations in the region for data collection, community engagement, and project outreach with office planners.
• Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions, including inclement weather, in the outdoors, and various geographic locations.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

It is preferredthat qualified candidates also have:

• Software and Technical Tools: Ability to use or quickly learn software tools such as Microsoft Office, GIS, and online databases to support data collection, analysis, and presentation.
• Research and Summarization Skills: Foundational knowledge of research methods and the ability to summarize findings in a clear, organized, and concise manner.
• Visual Interpretation and Mapping: Ability to interpret maps, images, and other visual data to support planning analysis and decision-making.
• Community Awareness: Basic understanding of transportation and/or land use issues affecting historically marginalized communities, including people with disabilities, people with limited incomes, immigrant and refugee communities, and others who experience disproportionate transportation burdens or barriers.
• Multilingual Communication: Bilingual or multilingual communication skills that support inclusive outreach and engagement.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• These positions are generally filled for a short-term duration of 3 to 6 months, with a specific end date established.
• 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.
• 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 UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at yasmin.munoz@wsdot.wa.gov.

Please be sure to reference 26DOT-ER-61153i in the subject line.