Field Exploration Operations Supervisor (TE4)

Field Exploration Operations Supervisor (TE4)

Salary

$88,788.00 - $119,460.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Tumwater, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-HQ-04546

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

08/18/2026

Closing Date

9/1/2026 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 a skilled and organized field exploration specialist to oversee the logistics and daily operations of the Field Exploration Section. This position will supervise the field exploration engineers and drill crews performing statewide field testing and sampling in support of WSDOT's complex design, construction, maintenance, and emergency projects. The position coordinates crew scheduling and performance tracking, monitors project costs, oversees training and certification requirements, manages drilling tools, supplies, and equipment, and coordinates equipment maintenance and acquisition. This position also supports the training and performance of regional field exploration personnel. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, organizational, communication, problem-solving, project coordination, and cost-management skills, with the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and support safe, efficient field operations.

What to Expect

This position will be expected to perform duties in person from the office, laboratory, and/or field. Hazards include traffic, motorists, falling rock, steep soil and rock slopes, debris, trees, and construction equipment.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Field Exploration Operations Supervisor will:

• Develop and maintain daily, weekly, and long-range drilling schedule based on project priorities, staffing/vacations, equipment availability, permits, and engineering needs.
• Assign drilling projects to maximize efficiency while ensuring safe work practices and compliance with agency priority.
• Schedule routine maintenance, repairs and location of all equipment to ensure proper operation; order parts for equipment as needed to keep crews working.
• Troubleshoot and resolve work related/drilling issues.
• Ensure crews comply with agency policies, safety requirements, permit specifications and standard operating practices.
• Review daily drill/inspector reports for accuracy and completeness and production metrics for scheduling.
• Prioritize work request/emergency's and allocate personnel, vehicles, drill rigs, and specialized equipment to meet operational demands.
• Operate state owned vehicle for delivery of repairs, maintenance, supplies to crews and personnel.
• Manage the purchasing and tracking of equipment, tooling, and supplies and maintain inventory of expendable drilling supplies and tooling.
• Track and maintain current inspections and certification for crane equipment.

Qualifications

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

• Geotechnical Drilling & Field Operations: Demonstrated experience performing geotechnical drilling and field exploration work and supervising or leading multiple drilling crews or comparable field-based operational teams; knowledge of geotechnical drilling and sampling practices and applicable standards and procedures.
• Operations Planning & Resource Management: Experience planning, scheduling, prioritizing, and coordinating multiple field operations and effectively allocating personnel, equipment, vehicles, and other resources to meet changing project, emergency, and operational needs.
• Supervision & Leadership: Experience supervising and leading employees, including assigning and planning work, providing direction, monitoring and evaluating performance, addressing performance concerns, and fostering a respectful and inclusive work environment.
• Safety, Compliance, & Risk Management: Proven ability to identify and address safety risks and ensure field operations comply with applicable laws, regulations, permits, agency policies, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Equipment & Operational Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to manage the operational readiness of a drilling fleet and resolve complex field and equipment issues involving maintenance, repairs, difficult drilling conditions, access, supplies, tooling, and changing project requirements.
• Training, Communication, & Collaboration: Ability to identify training needs, maintain certification records, communicate technical and operational information effectively, and facilitate collaborative problem-solving with employees, contractors, consultants, and agency partners.
• Organization, Judgment, & Technology: Demonstrated success with managing multiple competing priorities, maintains accurate operational and project records, exercises sound judgment in complex or time-sensitive situations, and uses Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other computer systems to support operational activities.
• 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.
• A valid Washington State Department of Ecology Resource Protection Operators License.
• A current 24- or 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER certification or the ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

• Geology & Soil/Rock Identification: Advanced training or experience in geology and soil and rock identification.
• Technical Software: Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe PDF.
• Geotechnical Drilling & Field Operations: Experience managing complex or large-scale geotechnical drilling projects or geographically dispersed field operations.
• Equipment, Fleet & Inventory Management: Experience managing specialized equipment, fleet maintenance, tooling, inventory, and field procurement.
• Training & Professional Development: Experience coordinating employee training, certification, and professional development programs.

In addition to the preferred qualifications above the following licenses are also preferred:

• A Washington State Commercial Driver's License Class A with N endorsement and without airbrake restriction.
• A Department of Ecology Resource Protection Well Construction License.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• Intermittent in-state and out-of-state travel is expected of this position. Overnight stays up to 4 nights at a time may be required. Traveling to multiple locations in one day may also be required.
• 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 offers limited flexible/hybrid remote work options while not on intermittent travel.
• 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• 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-HQ-04546 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 recent role performing geotechnical drilling and field exploration work. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

02

Geotechnical Drilling & Field Operations: Which best describes your experience performing geotechnical drilling and field exploration work and leading field-based operational teams?

• I have extensive experience performing geotechnical drilling and field exploration work and independently supervising or leading multiple drilling crews or comparable field-based operational teams. I have strong knowledge of geotechnical drilling, sampling practices, and applicable standards and procedures.
• I have experience performing geotechnical drilling and field exploration work and leading or supervising a drilling crew or comparable field-based operational team.
• I have experience performing geotechnical drilling or field exploration work and have assisted with leading field-based operations.
• I have working knowledge of geotechnical drilling and sampling practices and applicable standards and procedures.
• I do not have this experience.

03

Operations Planning & Resource Management: Which best describes your experience planning and coordinating multiple field operations and allocating resources?

• I independently plan, schedule, prioritize, and coordinate multiple complex field operations and proactively allocate personnel, equipment, vehicles, and other resources to address changing project, emergencies, and operational needs.
• I plan and coordinate multiple field operations and allocate personnel, equipment, vehicles, and other resources to meet established project and operational requirements.
• I assist with scheduling and coordinating field operations and allocating resources under established direction.
• I do not have this experience.

04

Supervision & Leadership: Which best describes your experience supervising and leading employees?

• I independently supervise and lead employees by assigning and planning work, providing direction, monitoring and evaluating performance, addressing performance concerns, and fostering a respectful, inclusive, and productive work environment.
• I supervise or lead employees by assigning work, providing direction, monitoring performance, addressing concerns, and supporting a respectful and inclusive work environment.
• I have experience providing direction or leadership to employees or work teams and supporting a positive and professional work environment.
• I do not have this experience.

05

Safety, Compliance, & Risk Management: Which best describes your experience managing safety, compliance, and operational risks?

• I independently identify and address complex safety risks and ensure field operations comply with applicable laws, regulations, permits, agency policies, procedures, and safety requirements.
• I identify and address safety risks and ensure field activities follow applicable laws, regulations, permits, policies, procedures, and safety requirements.
• I follow established safety, compliance, and risk-management procedures and identify safety concerns for appropriate action.
• I do not have this experience.

06

Equipment & Operational Problem-Solving: Which best describes your experience managing drilling fleet readiness and resolving complex operational or equipment issues?

• I independently manage the operational readiness of a drilling fleet and resolve complex issues involving maintenance, repairs, difficult drilling conditions, site access, supplies, tooling, and changing project requirements.
• I coordinate equipment readiness and resolve field and equipment issues involving maintenance, repairs, drilling conditions, access, supplies, tooling, or changing project requirements.
• I assist with equipment readiness and troubleshoot routine field or equipment issues using established procedures and available resources.
• I do not have this experience.

07

Training, Communication, & Collaboration: Which best describes your experience coordinating training and communicating technical and operational information?

• I independently identify training needs, maintain certification records, communicate complex technical and operational information clearly to diverse audiences, and facilitate collaborative problem-solving with employees, contractors, consultants, and agency partners.
• I coordinate training activities, maintain accurate certification records, communicate technical and operational information effectively, and collaborate with employees and external partners to resolve issues.
• I assist with training coordination, maintain records, communicate routine operational information, and work collaboratively with others.
• I do not have this experience.

08

Organization, Judgment, & Technology: Which best describes your ability to manage competing priorities, maintain operational records, exercise judgment, and use technology to support operations?

• I independently manage multiple complex and competing priorities, maintain accurate operational and project records, exercise sound judgment in complex or time-sensitive situations, and use Microsoft Office and other computer systems effectively to support operational activities.
• I manage multiple priorities, maintain accurate records, exercise sound judgment in routine and moderately complex situations, and use Microsoft Office and other computer systems to support operational activities.
• I organize assigned work, maintain required records, follow established procedures, and use Microsoft Office and other computer systems to complete assigned tasks.
• I do not have this experience.

09

What type of drivers license do you currently possess?

• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• CDL Learners Permit
• Standard Drivers License
• None of the above

10

Please provide your drivers license number, list your endorsements, and any restrictions:

11

Do you possess a valid Washington State Department of Ecology Resource Protection Operator's License?

• Yes
• No

12

Do you currently possess a valid 24- or 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER certification?

• Yes
• No

13

Do you possess a current Department of Ecology Resource Protection Well Construction License?

• Yes
• No

14

Geology & Soil/Rock Identification: Do you have advanced training or experience in geology and soil and rock identification? If yes, please briefly describe your training or experience and the types of geology, soil, and rock identification activities you have performed. If no experience, please enter N/A.

15

Geotechnical Drilling & Field Operations: Do you have experience managing complex or large-scale geotechnical drilling projects or geographically dispersed field operations? If yes, please briefly describe the scope and complexity of the projects or field operations you managed, and number of crews or personnel involved. If no experience, please enter N/A.

16

Equipment, Fleet & Inventory Management: Do you have experience managing specialized equipment, fleet maintenance, tooling, inventory, and field procurement? If yes, please briefly describe your experience and the types of equipment, fleet, tooling, inventory, or procurement activities you managed. If no experience, please enter N/A.

17

Do you have experience coordinating employee training, certification, and professional development programs?

• Yes
• No

18

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)

19

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