Electrical & Electronics Systems Specialist 3 (In-Training)

Electrical & Electronics Systems Specialist 3 (In-Training)

Salary

$72,900.00 - $102,996.00 Annually

Location

Clark County - Vancouver, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-SWR-41325

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Southwest Region

Opening Date

08/19/2026

Closing Date

9/9/2026 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 seeking an experienced Electrical & Electronics Systems Specialist (EESS) 3 to serve as a senior-level technician supporting the Southwest Region. This region-wide position will be responsible for diagnosing, maintaining, repairing and installing traffic signals, ramp meters, highway lighting systems, electrical services, and other related electrical infrastructure critical to the safe and efficient movement of people and commerce. The EESS3 will operate a variety of electrical tools and equipment, perform work safely and to established standards, and may be assigned lead duties. Through this work, this position supports WSDOT's strategic plan and long-term resilience by upholding quality, safety, stewardship, and agency standards while contributing to a workplace grounded in respect, equal opportunity, and belonging.

What to Expect

This position performs duties often physical in nature and performed primarily outdoors in all types of weather conditions. Other duties performed are at elevated heights of up to 100 feet in, around, and over live traffic and heights of up to 600 feet above water. Typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 40-hours per week, for 4, 10-hour days. Weekends and holidays may be required to respond to non-scheduled or call-out emergencies. On a rotational basis carry the stand-by pager for one week at a time to provide coverage 24/7 for after-hours call outs.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the EESS3 will:

• Perform senior-level preventative maintenance (PM), repairs, and installation.
• Test voltages, electrical connections, and grounding; test and monitor pedestrian heads and pushbuttons for proper orientation and operation.
• Check signal, flashing beacon, and ramp meter operation and displays; check and monitor vehicle detection system; and check and monitor signal emergency preemption operations.
• Diagnose electrical problems.
• Repair third-party damages, check for damages, make the scene electrically safe, make appropriate repairs, and remove damaged equipment from the travelled roadway; collect, document, and enter all information.
• Maintain accurate records and account for electrical service inventories in assigned area.
• Train and instruct personnel in safe and efficient operation of equipment, safety, maintenance procedures and best practices, and other topics related to the maintenance and repair of highway electrical infrastructure.
• Utilize and operate Class "A or B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) vehicles and other electrical construction equipment and vehicles for the maintenance of signal and luminaires at heights up to 100 feet.

Qualifications

This is an Electrical & Electronics Systems Specialist 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.

At a minimum, the following competencies are required:

Electrical & Electronics Knowledge

• Basic understanding of electrical and electronic principles related to the installation, maintenance, repair, and testing of highway electrical and electronic infrastructure.
• Knowledge of safe work practices for low- and high voltage systems for wiring, splicing, traffic signals, illumination systems, ITS equipment, flashing beacons, and related infrastructure.

Troubleshooting & Technical Operations

• Ability to identify and repair routine electrical and electronic system malfunctions using industry-standard test equipment, hand tools, and power tools.
• Knowledge of reading and interpreting electrical schematics, blueprints, plans, and technical drawings to support installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance activities.

Systems Support & Field Operations

• Basic Knowledge of system configuration, underground locating of electrical and fiber optic facilities, and operation of field and construction equipment used to support transportation electrical infrastructure.
• Ability to properly operate equipment including trenchers, excavators, boom trucks, generators, directional boring equipment, pavement saws, augers, and pressure washers.

Safety, Equipment & Documentation

• Basic understanding of safe work zones and following established traffic control procedures, and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Ability to perform vehicle inspections, maintain job-ready equipment and inventory, and complete daily work reports and preventative maintenance documentation.

Communication & Professional Development

• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and team members while following instructions and contributing to assigned work activities.
• Skills to effectively communicate information to a diverse audience, both virtually and in person, using a variety of electronic media, including, but not limited to, telephones, email, text, video conferencing, and computer conferencing.

Technical Software

• Proficient in operating Windows based computers and software, such as MS Office Suite, including Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook; and Cloud computing.

Leadership

• Proven ability to lead, mentor and evaluate a diverse workforce, providing clear direction and sound decision-making under stressful conditions, including planning and scheduling work activities.

Growth Mindset & Service-Oriented

• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid Class A or B CDL, no restrictions CDL, for standard shift and automatic shift vehicles, or a valid driver's license and the ability to obtain CDL within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to obtain and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work at heights of up to 100 feet above land and live traffic and 600 feet above water.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Ability to report in service to assigned duty station within 80 minutes of an after-hours call.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

• Utility Locator Certification.
• Flagger Certification.
• International Municipal Signal Association Traffic Signal Technician 1, 2, or 3 Certification.
• International Municipal Signal Association Traffic Signal Inspector Certification.
• Journeyman level electrician (EL01, AD01, or ME01) license.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This position is not eligible for remote work.

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

• 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.

• This position may be subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.

• This is an Electrical & Electronics Systems Specialist 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. The base salaries for each level are:

• Electrical & Electronic Systems Specialist 3: $84,528 - $102,996 Annually

• Electrical & Electronic Systems Specialist 2: $80,496 - $98,064 Annually

• Electrical & Electronic Systems Specialist 1: $72,900 - $88,788 Annually

• 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 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 of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may 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 Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SWR-41325 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

Please briefly describe your most relevant experience working with electrical, electronic, transportation, industrial, utility, or related systems. Include the types of systems or equipment you worked with, your level of responsibility, and the approximate length of your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

02

Have you completed a relevant professional formal training through an electrical apprenticeship program; accredited electrical or electronics training program; vocational or technical school; or military-based electrical/electronic training? If yes, please list the formal training, apprenticeship or electrical/electronic program. If you do not have this training, please enter N/A.

03

Electrical & Electronic Systems: Select the statement that best describes your experience with electrical and electronic systems.

• I have expert or advanced experience applying electrical and electronic theory, NEC, NFPA standards, and applicable state and local codes to complex transportation systems, including traffic signals, ITS, lighting, communications, power distribution, tunnel systems, movable bridges, tolling, fire safety, or similar infrastructure.
• I have substantial experience installing, maintaining, repairing, testing, or calibrating electrical and electronic systems, including traffic signals, illumination systems, ITS equipment, cameras, flashing beacons, motor controls, traffic data systems, or similar infrastructure.
• I have experience or training in applying basic electrical and electronic principles to the installation, maintenance, repair, or testing of electrical or electronic systems.
• I have completed education or training in electrical and electronic principles but have limited hands-on experience.
• I do not have this experience.

04

Troubleshooting & Technical Operations: Select the statement that best describes your experience troubleshooting and repairing electrical and electronic systems.

• I independently diagnose and repair complex electrical, electronic, fiber optic, programmable, and communications systems using advanced test equipment and technical documentation, and I develop or update schematics, plans, or as-built drawings as needed.
• I independently diagnose and repair a variety of electrical and electronic malfunctions using equipment such as multimeters, circuit or signal tracers, thermal imagers, and hand and power tools, and I interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, plans, and technical drawings.
• I troubleshoot routine electrical or electronic malfunctions using common test equipment and tools and can interpret basic schematics, plans, or technical drawings with some guidance.
• I have training or limited experience using electrical test equipment, tools, or technical drawings.
• I do not have this experience.

05

Systems Integration & Technology: Select the statement that best describes your experience with programming, networking, communications, fiber optics, and transportation technology.

• I have advanced technical expertise configuring, programming, integrating, and troubleshooting transportation communications and ITS systems, including fiber optics, networking, radio, cellular, microwave, highway advisory radio, weather stations, traffic signals, detection systems, PLCs, tolling, or similar technologies, and I provide technical guidance to engineers, contractors, utilities, or local agencies.
• I have experience programming or configuring traffic signals, ITS, network, or communications equipment and testing system functionality to verify reliable operation.
• I have assisted with configuration, testing, troubleshooting, or maintenance of networked electrical, electronic, ITS, or communications systems.
• I have limited experience with these technologies but have completed related education or training.
• I do not have this experience.

06

Field Operations, Equipment & Project Support: Select the statement that best describes your experience supporting electrical field operations and projects.

• I independently plan, coordinate, and oversee electrical installation, maintenance, repair, testing, and inspection activities; develop work schedules; estimate labor, materials, and equipment; and evaluate completed installations for compliance with applicable requirements.
• I have substantial experience coordinating electrical field work and operating or overseeing equipment such as trenchers, excavators, boom trucks, generators, directional boring equipment, pavement saws, augers, or pressure washers.
• I have hands-on experience operating field or construction equipment and supporting electrical, utility, construction, or maintenance activities.
• I have limited equipment operation or field experience but have completed related training.
• I do not have this experience.

07

Safety, Compliance & Emergency Response: Select the statement that best describes your experience applying safety requirements and responding to electrical or transportation emergencies.

• I have expert experience directing emergency response activities, assessing hazards to the traveling public, prioritizing repairs, coordinating crews and resources, and restoring critical transportation systems while ensuring compliance with electrical, work-zone, regulatory, and agency requirements.
• I have advanced experience independently assessing hazards, responding to emergency callouts, prioritizing repairs, and restoring electrical or transportation systems in accordance with established safety and regulatory requirements.
• I have experience applying electrical safety procedures, traffic control requirements, PPE, confined-space procedures, powerline hazard awareness, vehicle safety, and other applicable requirements during routine or emergency work.
• I have completed applicable safety training and have limited experience independently applying these requirements in the field.
• I do not have this experience.

08

Code & Regulatory Experience: Have you independently interpreted or applied NEC, NFPA standards, state or local electrical codes, statutes, regulations, specifications, or agency standards in performing or overseeing electrical or electronic work? If yes, briefly describe the codes, standards, or regulations you have applied, and the types of systems or projects involved. If no experience, please enter N/A.

09

Please select all the following you currently possess:

• Utility Locator Certification
• First Aid/CPR Certification
• Flagger Certification
• International Municipal Signal Association Traffic Signal Technician 1 Certification
• International Municipal Signal Association Traffic Signal Technician 2 Certification
• International Municipal Signal Association Traffic Signal Technician 3 Certification
• International Municipal Signal Association Traffic Signal Inspector Certification
• Journeyman level electrician EL01 License
• Journeyman level electrician AD01 License
• Journeyman level electrician ME01 License
• None of the above

10

What type of drivers license do you currently possess?

• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• CDL Learner's Permit
• Standard drivers license
• None of the above

11

Are you able to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds or more?

• Yes
• No

12

This position performs work that includes performing duties at elevated heights of up to 100 feet in, around, and over live traffic and heights of up to 600 feet above water. Are you willing and able to meet these requirements?

• Yes
• No

13

Are you able and willing to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts/stand-by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?

• Yes
• No

14

Are you able to report in service to assigned duty station within 80 minutes of an after-hours call or are you willing to relocate to meet the required response time?

• Yes
• No

15

This position performs work that includes traversing rough, steep, and uneven terrain. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No

16

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

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

17

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