Electrical and Cement Testing Engineer (TE2)

Washington Department of Natural Resources
Washington Department of Natural Resources

Other Engineering

Tumwater, WA, USA

Posted on Sep 2, 2026

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 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 and Cement Testing Engineer to perform complex laboratory testing that helps ensure construction materials and electrical systems meet established standards and specifications. Working within the Specialty Services Section based in Tumwater, WA, you will support statewide WSDOT construction projects and local jurisdictions through accurate, reliable, and compliant testing of cementitious materials, electrical materials, and traffic control equipment. This role offers the opportunity to apply engineering knowledge and technical problem-solving skills in a specialized laboratory environment while contributing to the quality and safety of Washington’s transportation infrastructure.

What to Expect

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

  • Perform acceptance, verification, confirmation, and forensic testing of Portland cement, blended hydraulic cement, fly ash, liquid membrane-forming curing compounds, and aggregate samples.
  • Obtain and maintain qualifications in assigned cement laboratory testing procedures and safely prepare, handle, test, organize, and dispose of laboratory samples and materials.
  • Perform complex testing of traffic controllers, traffic signal cabinets, uninterruptible power supply cabinets, and other electrical materials using specialized laboratory equipment.
  • Troubleshoot electrical materials and conduct diagnostic testing, including programming and operating an environmental chamber using computer software.
  • Safely operate forklifts and pallet jacks to move and manipulate laboratory inventory and materials.
  • Conduct routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment and coordinate with outside vendors for equipment calibration and repairs.
  • Communicate with peers, support offices, consultants, and the public through written and verbal communication.

Qualifications

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

  • Respect and Inclusion: Contributes to a work environment that fosters respect and equal opportunity.
  • Independent Work and Prioritization: Proficient in working independently, prioritizing workload, and managing multiple assignments under deadlines.
  • Laboratory Equipment: Demonstrated ability to read, understand, and operate a variety of instruments and laboratory equipment.
  • Materials Testing: Demonstrated ability to perform complex materials testing while ensuring data accuracy and procedural compliance.
  • Engineering Knowledge: Knowledge and understanding of engineering principles, methods, and practices to laboratory testing and problem-solving.
  • Testing Procedures: Applies knowledge and understanding of material testing procedures.
  • Communication: Communicates effectively with multiple audiences, both verbally and in writing.
  • Equipment Calibration: Demonstrated ability to maintain and calibrate specialized laboratory instruments and ensures accuracy of results.
  • Quality Assurance: Applies knowledge of laboratory quality assurance and accreditation processes, including proficiency sample programs and external audits.
  • Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves technical, procedural, or equipment issues using critical thinking and root cause analysis.
  • Safety: Follows safety policies and performs work safely.
  • 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 materials or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds without assistance.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain qualifications in assigned laboratory test procedures and forklift operator certification.
  • Travel occasionally to job sites, regional facilities, meetings, and training to provide technical assistance or support.
  • Ability to work with materials exceeding 400 degrees F.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

  • Electrical Materials Testing: Knowledge of electrical materials testing.
  • Cement Testing: Knowledge of cement testing.
  • Specialized Technology: Proficiency with specialized computer programs and testing equipment associated with materials testing.

Important Notes

  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position is not eligible for remote work.
  • 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 Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-05128e in the subject line.