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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking an Electrical & Cement Materials Testing Engineer (TE3) to join the Specialty Services Section at the State Materials Laboratory in Tumwater, WA. In this role, you will play a critical part in supporting transportation projects across Washington by overseeing specialized materials testing programs that help ensure the safety, quality, and performance of infrastructure investments.

This position serves as a technical leader responsible for coordinating and overseeing complex laboratory testing of electrical and cementitious materials used in transportation construction projects statewide. You will work closely with project engineers, contractors, manufacturers, technicians, and agency partners to provide expert testing services, technical guidance, and quality assurance support. The work performed directly contributes to the successful delivery of transportation projects by ensuring materials meet established standards, specifications, and performance requirements.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Oversee daily operations within the Electrical and Cement Laboratories, including organizing and tracking samples, scheduling testing activities, assigning work, and reviewing testing performed by laboratory staff.
• Perform and maintain qualifications in specialized electrical and cement materials testing procedures and ensure testing activities comply with established standards and specifications.
• Conduct testing of traffic controllers, signal cabinets, uninterruptable power supply (UPS) systems, and other electrical materials used on transportation projects.
• Perform verification, confirmation, and forensic testing of cement, blended hydraulic cement, fly ash, slag, natural pozzolans, aggregates, and concrete curing compounds.
• Prepare, review, and communicate testing reports and results to project engineers, contractors, local agencies, federal partners, and other stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot testing issues, perform diagnostic evaluations, and operate specialized laboratory equipment and environmental testing chambers.
• Utilize forklifts, pallet jacks, and safe lifting practices to move, organize, prepare, and manage testing materials and samples.
• Assist with scheduling and coordinating activities associated with the Cement Acceptance Program.
• Independently schedule, prioritize, and coordinate laboratory testing activities while communicating with contractors, manufacturers, and project partners.
• Train, qualify, and support laboratory technicians while ensuring tester qualifications and equipment verifications remain current within an accredited laboratory environment.
• Review contract plans, specifications, and submitted materials to verify compliance with project requirements prior to testing.
• Oversee equipment calibration, verification, maintenance, and repair activities while coordinating with external vendors as needed.
• Provide support to other laboratory sections, serve as backup for section staff, travel to project sites or regional offices for troubleshooting assistance, and participate in meetings and training opportunities.

Qualifications

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

• Workload Management: Ability to work independently, prioritize competing assignments, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Training and Leadership: Ability to supervise, train, and support employees in a laboratory setting.
• Technical Equipment Operation: Demonstrated proficiency in reading, understanding, operating, and troubleshooting laboratory instruments and testing equipment.
• Materials Testing: Demonstrated ability to perform complex materials testing while ensuring procedural compliance and data accuracy.
• Engineering Knowledge: Knowledge of engineering principles, methods, and practices related to materials testing and transportation projects.
• Materials Testing Standards: Knowledge of material testing procedures, specifications, and quality requirements.
• Communication: Ability to communicate technical information effectively to diverse audiences both verbally and in writing.
• Problem Solving: Ability to evaluate complex issues, develop alternatives, and recommend effective solutions.
• Technical Adaptability: Ability to select and adapt testing techniques to resolve transportation-related materials testing challenges.
• Plan and Specification Review: Knowledge of reviewing engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards.
• Quality Assurance: Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance practices, accreditation requirements, proficiency programs, and external audits.
• Safety Focus: Ability to follow safety requirements and perform work safely in laboratory environments.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Respectful Workplace Practices: Ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.

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.
• Work with materials exceeding 400 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 may 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.
• Maintain forklift operator certification.
• This position may require 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:

• Transportation Engineering Experience: Experience applying transportation engineering principles within a transportation-related environment.
• Electrical Materials Testing Knowledge: Knowledge of electrical materials testing methods, procedures, and equipment.
• Cement Testing Knowledge: Knowledge of cementitious materials testing methods, procedures, and equipment.
• Technical Systems Proficiency: Proficiency using specialized software programs, testing systems, and equipment associated with materials testing operations.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 2% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026.
• 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.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-00433 in the subject line.