Cultural Resources Professional (TPS3)

Cultural Resources Professional (TPS3)

Salary

$76,545.00 - $103,005.00 Annually

Location

King County - Shoreline, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-13496

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

09/17/2026

Closing Date

9/30/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

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 worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a skilled Transportation Planning Specialist 3 to serve as a Cultural Resources Professional within the Northwest Region Environmental Services Office. This is an exciting opportunity to bring your expertise in cultural resources, archaeology, and regulatory compliance to projects that shape Washington's transportation system. In this role, you'll serve as a technical and regulatory specialist, supporting the Region Cultural Resources Lead and helping ensure WSDOT projects move forward while meeting important federal, state, and agency requirements.

As a subject matter expert, you'll independently perform critical cultural resources evaluations supporting WSDOT regions and modes statewide, including maintenance activities. You'll play an important role in implementing National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 and Executive Order 21-02 responsibilities delegated to WSDOT through the Section 106 Programmatic Agreement, as well as supporting compliance with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) requirements. You'll also have opportunities to provide archaeological monitoring and fieldwork assistance on projects requiring on-site expertise. Your work will directly contribute to responsible stewardship of cultural resources while helping deliver safe, effective transportation projects for communities across Washington.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Cultural Resources Professional will:

• Act as technical specialist on cultural resources projects and supports the Region Cultural Resources Lead in carrying out compliance responsibilities delegated to WSDOT by the FHWA and as required by federal, state, and agency regulations.
• Research site records and surveys at Dept. of Archaeology & Historic Preservation (DAHP).
• Record and evaluate cultural resources for regulatory compliance requirements. Identifies potential innovations associated with cultural resources requirements and potential barriers to project delivery in design and construction, and works with project teams, NWR Environmental and HQ ESO to implement solutions.
• Complete cultural resources identification tasks including cataloging of analyzed artifacts and authoring archaeological site forms, or other recordation tasks.
• Determine Areas of Potential Effect and the need for in-depth archaeological and/or historical of studies for concurrence from the NWR Cultural Resources Specialist, DAHP, Tribes and other consulting parties by reviewing environmental documents and transportation facility designs for cultural resources management issues.
• Review cultural resources consultant work products.
• Provide archaeological monitoring and fieldwork assistance to project requiring on-site support.
• Conduct cultural resources field surveys.

Qualifications

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

• Archaeological Knowledge: Knowledge of Pacific Northwest archaeology, cultural history, and ethnography to ensure compliance during both environmental reviews and project construction. Demonstrated experience conducting archaeological monitoring.
• Regulatory and Regional Familiarity: Working knowledge of federal, state, and local cultural resources laws and regulations (National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Section 106, Executive Order 21-02. etc.).
• Research and Analytical Skills/Abilities: Experience researching, evaluating, and drawing conclusions from data to assess impacts to cultural resources; support recommendations with facts and analysis; interpret and apply rules, laws, policies, and procedures.
• Project Planning & Technical Writing: Experience with procedures to conduct archaeological fieldwork, including survey, testing, and recording. Ability to conduct archival research and to generate information to be compiled into reports and/or plans from sources such as field reviews. Experience reviewing and producing technical reports per scope and schedule.
• Data Stewardship & Analysis: Ability to accurately collect, maintain, organize, and clearly report on environmental, transportation, and planning-related data using appropriate tools, systems, and standards. Ability to calculate basic mathematic functions, such as: areas, percentage, add, subtract, multiply, and divide.
• Organizational and Professional Skills: Ability to perform job functions working in demanding and high stress situations, follow instructions, work independently with minimal supervision, and apply analytical skills to identify issues and propose solutions. Experience scheduling, tracking, and delivering multiple work assignments simultaneously. Determining, establishing, and maintaining effective work methods and schedules, keeping within budget, personnel, and equipment constraints.
• Collaboration and Relationship Building: Build strong working relationships across internal teams, consultants, contractors, and partner agencies to coordinate work activities and schedules. Proven ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams; guide and influence people without direct line authority; while also working independently as needed.
• Communication Skills: Advanced skills in professional communication, specifically in communicating technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually, by phone, and in person.
• Technology Proficiency: Skilled in the use of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) to support documentation, reporting, and communication needs.
• 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 25 pounds.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Archaeological Proficiency: Demonstrates proficiency in archaeological field methods, research design, and cultural resource analysis through formal training and applied experience in archaeological investigation. Proficiency is evidenced by the ability to conduct systematic pedestrian survey, shovel testing, and excavation; document stratigraphy, features, and artifacts using accepted professional standards; accurately record field data through notes, mapping, photography, and site forms; process, catalog, and analyze artifacts in a laboratory setting; and apply regional typologies and cultural chronologies to interpret findings. Demonstrates the ability to contribute to cultural resource technical reports and regulatory compliance documentation, while working under appropriate professional supervision and progressively assuming responsibility for field and analytical tasks.
• Technical Software Proficiency: Skills in ArcGIS including basic functions such as the ability to manage simple data sets and generate maps, maintain, and update database systems. Working familiarity with image processing software such as Photoshop.
• Certifications: 40-hour HAZWOPER certification (current with refresher)

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
• 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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 a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

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. 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 recruiter listed.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference Cultural Resources Professional #13496 in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Which of the following best describes your experience applying knowledge of Pacific Northwest archaeology, cultural history, and ethnography to cultural resources work?

• Advanced: I independently apply knowledge of Pacific Northwest archaeology, cultural history, and ethnography to evaluate cultural resources, support project decisions, and conduct archaeological monitoring or fieldwork.
• Intermediate: I regularly apply this knowledge to archaeological surveys, monitoring, cultural resources evaluations, or environmental reviews with limited supervision.
• Developing: I have applied this knowledge through archaeological fieldwork, monitoring, research, internships, academic projects, or similar experience with guidance.
• Education/Training: I have completed education or training in Pacific Northwest archaeology, cultural history, or ethnography but have limited applied experience.
• No experience: I do not have education, training, or experience in this area.

02

Do you have experience conducting archaeological monitoring during construction or other ground-disturbing activities?

• Yes
• No

03

Please briefly describe your experience applying knowledge of Pacific Northwest archaeology, cultural history, and ethnography to cultural resources work and conducting archaeological monitoring during construction or other ground-disturbing activities. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

04

Which of the following best describes your experience interpreting and applying cultural resources laws, regulations, policies, or agreements?

• Advanced: I independently interpret and apply federal, state, and local cultural resources requirements to projects, evaluate compliance needs, and provide recommendations to project teams or decision-makers.
• Intermediate: I regularly apply cultural resources laws, regulations, policies, or agreements to project reviews and compliance activities with limited supervision.
• Developing: I have assisted with applying cultural resources requirements to projects or environmental reviews under the direction of an experienced professional.
• Education/Training: I have completed education or training related to cultural resources laws, regulations, or compliance but have limited practical experience.
• No experience: I do not have education, training, or experience applying cultural resources requirements.

05

Please briefly describe your experience interpreting and applying cultural resources laws, regulations, policies, or agreements. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

06

Have you applied National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Section 106 and/or Executive Order 21-02 requirements as part of your professional work?

• Yes
• No

07

Which of the following best describes your experience researching, evaluating, and analyzing information to assess potential impacts to cultural resources and develop recommendations?

• Advanced: I independently research and evaluate complex cultural resources information, draw conclusions regarding potential impacts, interpret applicable requirements, and develop recommendations supported by documented analysis.
• Intermediate: I regularly research and analyze cultural resources information and develop findings or recommendations with limited supervision.
• Developing: I have conducted research, evaluated data, and contributed to cultural resources findings or recommendations with guidance from an experienced professional.
• Limited: I have performed research and analysis through academic projects, internships, fieldwork, or other limited professional experience.
• Education/Training: I have completed education or training involving research, data analysis, or interpretation of regulations but have limited applied experience.
• No experience: I do not have experience or training in this area.

08

Which of the following best describes your experience planning archaeological fieldwork and developing or reviewing technical documentation?

• Advanced: I independently plan or oversee archaeological survey, testing, monitoring, or recording activities; conduct archival research; and prepare or review technical reports and other project deliverables to meet scope, quality, and schedule requirements.
• Intermediate: I have planned or coordinated archaeological fieldwork and prepared or reviewed technical reports, plans, or other project documentation with limited supervision.
• Developing: I have participated in archaeological fieldwork, archival research, documentation, or technical report preparation with guidance from an experienced professional.
• Limited: I have gained experience with archaeological field methods, research, or technical writing through education, internships, field schools, or similar experience.
• Education/Training: I have completed education or training in archaeological field methods, research, or technical writing but have limited applied experience.
• No experience: I do not have education, training, or experience in these areas.

09

Please briefly describe your experience planning archaeological fieldwork and developing or reviewing technical documentation. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

10

Which of the following best describes your experience collecting, organizing, analyzing, maintaining, and reporting technical or environmental data?

• Advanced: I independently manage and analyze complex technical or environmental data, verify its accuracy, apply appropriate standards or tools, and communicate findings through reports, databases, maps, or other deliverables.
• Intermediate: I regularly collect, organize, verify, analyze, and report technical or environmental data using established tools, systems, and standards.
• Developing: I have collected, entered, organized, or analyzed technical data with guidance and followed established data management procedures.
• Limited: I have performed data collection, organization, or basic analysis through education, fieldwork, internships, or other limited experience.
• Education/Training: I have completed education or training involving data management, mathematics, or technical analysis but have limited applied experience.
• No experience: I do not have education, training, or experience in this area.

11

Please briefly describe your experience collecting, organizing, analyzing, maintaining, and reporting technical or environmental data. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

12

Which of the following best describes your experience coordinating work with multidisciplinary teams, consultants, contractors, partner agencies, or other stakeholders?

• Advanced: I independently coordinate complex work across multidisciplinary teams and organizations, build productive relationships, and influence or guide others without direct supervisory authority to achieve project objectives.
• Intermediate: I regularly collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, consultants, contractors, agencies, or other stakeholders and coordinate work activities with limited supervision.
• Developing: I have participated on multidisciplinary teams and coordinated work with others while receiving guidance from a supervisor or project lead.
• Limited: I have collaborated with coworkers, project teams, or external partners through work, internships, academic projects, or similar experience.
• Education/Training: I have developed teamwork and collaboration skills through education, training, or group projects but have limited professional experience.
• No experience: I do not have experience collaborating with multidisciplinary teams or external partners.

13

Please briefly describe your experience coordinating work with multidisciplinary teams, consultants, contractors, partner agencies, or other stakeholders. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

14

Do you have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?

• Yes
• No

15

This position requires the ability to manipulate up to 25lbs with or without reasonable accommodation. Are you able and willing to perform this essential job function?

• Yes
• No

16

Do you have the 40-hour HAZWOPER certification (current with refresher)?

• Yes
• No

17

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

18

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov