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 currently seeking a Transportation Technician 3 to support the delivery of highway construction projects through materials testing, construction inspection, and contract administration activities. In this role, you will perform and document materials testing, evaluate test results, and assist with ensuring construction work complies with contract plans, specifications, and environmental commitments. This position plays a key role in verifying the quality of transportation infrastructure and supporting the successful delivery of projects that serve Washington's communities. The work performed helps ensure transportation facilities are constructed safely, accurately, and in accordance with established standards.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Technician 3 will:

• Perform industry-standard materials testing on asphalt, concrete, soil, aggregate, grout, and other construction materials to verify compliance with project requirements.
• Conduct laboratory and field tests, including asphalt content, maximum density, proctor density, sieve analysis, sand equivalent, moisture content, yield, slump, and air content testing.
• Operate specialized testing equipment, including a nuclear densometer, to evaluate material density and quality.
• Inspect asphalt and concrete plant operations by observing production processes, verifying equipment and procedures, performing materials testing, and completing required documentation.
• Collect material samples, record test data, and interpret test results to support construction quality verification activities.
• Verify sampling and testing procedures using the WSDOT Construction Manual and established industry standards.
• Assist with construction inspection activities by monitoring contractor work, documenting project activities, tracking material quantities, and reporting compliance concerns.
• Safely operate agency vehicles, transport testing equipment across varied terrain and weather conditions, and perform other duties in support of project delivery.

Qualifications

This is a Transportation Technician 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.

Transportation Technician 3 Qualifications:

• Engineering Knowledge & Technical Skills: Ability to apply complex engineering and mathematical principles to plan, execute, and evaluate technical tasks.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Ability to manage data collection and analysis processes for multiple projects, and the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Ability to manage priorities across multiple tasks or projects, collaborate with others, and implement effective solutions to changing conditions.
  
  

Transportation Technician 2 In-Training Qualifications:

• Engineering Knowledge & Technical Skills: Ability to independently apply engineering and mathematical principles to perform technical tasks, interpret results, and troubleshoot routine issues on transportation projects.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Ability to independently collect, analyze, and summarize data, identify trends or discrepancies, and provide information to support project decisions.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Ability to work independently or in teams, adjust to shifting priorities, and maintain accuracy while supporting group objectives.
  
  

Transportation Technician 1 In-Training Qualifications:

• Engineering Knowledge & Technical Skills: Ability to apply basic engineering and mathematical principles (e.g., algebra, geometry, construction math) under supervision to support tasks such as drafting, surveying, plan development, or data collection.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Ability to gather, record, and organize data under supervision, following established procedures.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Ability to contribute to team tasks under guidance, follow instructions, and learn to adapt to changing priorities.

In addition to the above (applies to all levels - TT1, TT2 & TT3):

• Communication Skills: Demonstrated strong oral and written communication abilities, with the capacity to convey technical and non-technical information clearly and effectively across diverse audiences.
• Technical Interpretation: Proficient in reading, understanding, and interpreting engineering specifications, drawings, and technical documentation to ensure accurate application in field and office settings.
• Mathematical and Analytical Skills: Skilled in applying mathematical principles and formulas to solve engineering and technical problems accurately and efficiently.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Ability to independently transport equipment and materials up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to work all shifts, including evening, weekends, nights, or overtime as needed.
  
  

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Certifications: Qualified WAQTC HMA tester and/or Certification as an Engineer-In-Training.
• Construction Inspection and Quality Assurance: Experience testing materials and inspecting construction activities for conformance with contract requirements.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Proficiency: Experience using CAD.
  
  

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
• This is an in-training opportunity that provides a structured career path, hands-on learning, and mentorship. The position offers the opportunity to develop technical knowledge and skills while progressing through the Transportation Technician series toward the goal class of Transportation Technician 3. Candidates may be considered for appointment as a Transportation Technician 1, 2, or 3, depending on their qualifications. Annual salary levels for each position are:
  • Transportation Technician 1: $50,450 - $67,737
  • Transportation Technician 2: $59,799 - $80,438
  • Transportation Technician 3: $69,375 - $93,227
• 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 Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at yasmin.munoz@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-13442 in the subject line.