IT Network & Telecommunications - Senior/Specialist

IT Network & Telecommunications - Senior/Specialist

Salary

$94,620.00 - $127,248.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-HQ-00655

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

08/06/2026

Closing Date

8/19/2026 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 IT Network & Telecommunications - Senior/Specialist to support the planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of the agencys statewide telecommunications and network infrastructure. In this role, you will analyze business and technical requirements, develop and implement network solutions, oversee the installation and configuration of fiber optic, Wide Area Network (WAN), Internet, Intranet (LAN), and telecommunications systems, and ensure the reliable connectivity of critical voice, data, and video systems that support transportation operations across Washington. As a trusted senior specialist, you will provide technical expertise to WSDOT and partner agencies, helping optimize network performance, reliability, security, and interoperability while supporting the infrastructure that connects traffic management devices, roadside technologies, and other mission-critical systems. Strong candidates will possess proficiency in enterprise networking and telecommunications, knowledge of fiber optic and LAN/WAN technologies, and the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to deliver secure, reliable, and resilient network solutions.

What to Expect

Network Services provides technical expertise, management, and strategic leadership for the agency's Enterprise Telecommunications Services (i.e. WAN, LAN, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)), Optical Fiber Services, Telephony, and Voice Services. This Network Technician position works in the Circuit Management and Fiber Operations area. Thurston County-based staff travel statewide, maintaining services for over 230 sites in support of all agency business units.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the IT Network & Telecommunications - Senior/Specialist

will:

• Plan, coordinate, and design the interconnection and integration of critical systems for telecommunications, voice/data/video transfer and the fiber optics infrastructure for connectivity, potentially statewide.
• Work with other division technical staff and leaders to bring all divisions under a uniform networked system of fiber optics infrastructure to ensure critical system connectivity leveraging common tactics techniques, and procedures.
• Develop, plan and design network modifications and enhancements. Evaluate integration of systems, connectivity capabilities and limitations of data transmission modes and media.
• Evaluate and determine type of communication system(s) to be networked; assess geographic layout, transmission equipment required, and fiber network over which it will operate.
• Design and configure networks and interfaces and integration to other network systems considering service requirements in the planning and design.
• Research emerging network technologies, hardware/software, available for realignment and/or improvement of the network and integration with optical fiber infrastructure. Present viable networking solution options including advantages and limitations.
• Ensure rigorous application of cybersecurity.
• Lead network infrastructure IT projects; analyze business requirements, design, plan, and lead IT projects.
• Establish project scope, stakeholder groups, timeline, deliverables.
• Configure, install, test, maintain, and manage networked systems statewide; monitor network, identify, and resolve interconnectivity and operational problems.

Qualifications

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

• Enterprise Network Engineering & Design: Progressive experience in IT network engineering methods, network configuration, design, management and troubleshooting of network technologies. Ability to design, configure, implement, manage, and troubleshoot enterprise network infrastructure.
• Fiber Optic Systems & Infrastructure: Advanced experience installing, configuring, testing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and analyzing fiber optic infrastructure and networks. Ability to perform fiber network architecture analysis and develop innovative solutions to ensure reliable, resilient connectivity.
• Network Troubleshooting & Technical Problem Solving: Experience independently diagnosing and resolving complex network, telecommunications, and fiber optic issues using specialized tools, testing equipment, and industry best practices.
• Technical Communication & Customer Service: Ability to professionally and respectfully communicate, in writing and verbally, with a diverse set of customers and peers. Demonstrated ability to actively listen, understand customer needs, recommend effective solutions, and build collaborative working relationships.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, leadership, business partners, and external stakeholders to support agency technology initiatives and achieve shared objectives.
• 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 driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as needed, to respond to critical lT-related systems and networks.
• Ability to be on standing-by status on a rotating schedule and provide after-hours support.
• Must be willing to travel and spend after-hours time on projects that can sometimes be far away from duty station. Overnight travel is often required.
• Must have or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential for unescorted access to secure areas of U.S. maritime facilities and vessels. (This credential requires a federal background check).

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

• Professional IT Experience: Advanced level of experience and knowledge in information technology typically obtained through a combination of years of experience and formal education in an IT, Computer Science field or something similar.
• Fiber Optic Testing & Splicing: Expert knowledge of Fusion splicing, both single strand splicing and ribbon splicing, OTDR operations and reading of the traces, Power meter and other fiber optic testing.
• Cisco Networking Technologies: Working knowledge of Cisco routers and switches.
• Technology Solutions & Operational Support:
• Public Sector or Enterprise IT Understanding: Experience working in a public/private work environment.
• 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.
• This position is required to be on standing-by status on a rotating schedule and provide after-hours support.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• Travel and working after-hours on projects that can sometimes be far away from duty station are required. Overnight travel is often 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.
• 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-HQ-00655 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 supporting enterprise network infrastructure, including your primary responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

02

Enterprise Network Engineering & Design: Select the option that best describes your experience designing, configuring, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting enterprise network infrastructure, and telecommunications technologies.

• Expert - I have independently designed, implemented, managed, and troubleshot complex enterprise LAN/WAN and telecommunications environments, served as the technical lead for network architecture and integration efforts, and resolved highly complex network issues.
• Advanced - I have independently configured, implemented, and maintained enterprise LAN/WAN and telecommunications systems, regularly troubleshooting complex network issues and contributing to network design.
• Intermediate - I have configured, maintained, and troubleshot enterprise network infrastructure and participated in network implementation or design under general direction.
• Basic - I have limited experience assisting with network configuration, maintenance, or troubleshooting of enterprise network infrastructure.
• No experience.

03

Fiber Optic Systems & Infrastructure: Select the option that best describes your experience installing, configuring, testing, maintaining, and troubleshooting fiber optic infrastructure and networks.

• Expert - I have independently designed, installed, tested, maintained, and repaired complex fiber optic networks across multiple locations, including performing architectural analysis and providing technical leadership.
• Advanced - I have independently installed, configured, tested, maintained, and troubleshot fiber optic systems supporting enterprise networks.
• Intermediate - I have performed installation, testing, maintenance, or troubleshooting of fiber optic systems under general direction.
• Basic - I have limited exposure to fiber optic installation, testing, or maintenance.
• No experience.

04

Please describe your experience with fiber optic cable construction. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

05

Please describe your experience working with fiber optic infrastructure, including the types of systems, testing methods, or technologies you have supported. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

06

Network Troubleshooting & Technical Problem Solving: Select the option that best describes your experience diagnosing and resolving complex network or telecommunications issues.

• Expert - I routinely serve as the highest-level technical resource for diagnosing and resolving complex enterprise network and telecommunications issues and develop long-term technical solutions.
• Advanced - I independently troubleshoot and resolve complex enterprise network and telecommunications issues using industry-standard tools and best practices.
• Intermediate - I troubleshoot common to moderately complex network issues and escalate highly complex problems when appropriate.
• Basic - I have assisted with network troubleshooting under supervision.
• No experience.

07

Technical Communication & Customer Service: Select the option that best describes your experience communicating technical information and providing customer support to a variety of stakeholders.

• Expert - I routinely communicate complex technical information to technical and non-technical audiences, advise leadership, and develop solutions through collaboration with customers and stakeholders.
• Advanced - I regularly communicate technical information, gather customer requirements, recommend solutions, and maintain positive working relationships.
• Intermediate - I communicate technical information with customers and coworkers and provide routine technical support.
• Basic - I have limited experience communicating technical information or supporting customers.
• No experience.

08

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Select the option that best describes your experience collaborating with cross-functional teams, leadership, business partners, or external stakeholders to implement technology solutions.

• Expert - I routinely lead collaboration among multiple organizations or stakeholder groups to develop and implement enterprise technology solutions.
• Advanced - I regularly collaborate with diverse stakeholders to plan, implement, and support technology initiatives.
• Intermediate - I participate on project teams and work collaboratively with stakeholders to complete assigned technology work.
• Basic - I have limited experience collaborating on technology projects.
• No experience.

09

Do you have a valid drivers license?

• Yes
• No

10

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

• Yes
• No

11

This position requires the ability to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as needed, to respond to critical lT-related systems and networks. Are you able and willing to be on standing-by status on a rotating schedule and provide after-hours support?

• Yes
• No

12

This position requires statewide travel, including overnight travel, and occasional work outside normal business hours. Are you able and willing to meet these requirements?

• Yes
• No

13

Fiber Optic Testing & Splicing: Do you have experience performing fiber optic testing and splicing, including fusion splicing, OTDR testing, power meter testing, or related diagnostic activities?

• Yes
• No

14

If you have experience performing fiber optic testing and splicing, please describe your experience with fiber optic testing equipment, fusion splicing, and diagnostic tools. Otherwise, enter N/A

15

Cisco Networking Technologies: Select the option that best describes your experience configuring, managing, or troubleshooting Cisco routers and switches.

• Expert - I independently configure, manage, optimize, and troubleshoot Cisco enterprise network environments and serve as a technical resource for others.
• Advanced - I regularly configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Cisco routers and switches in a production environment.
• Intermediate - I have experience supporting Cisco networking equipment and performing routine configuration or troubleshooting.
• Basic - I have limited exposure to Cisco networking equipment.
• No experience.

16

Technology Solutions & Operational Support: Select the option that best describes your experience independently coordinating, implementing, or supporting enterprise technology solutions.

• Expert - I independently lead the planning, implementation, and support of enterprise technology solutions that address complex business needs.
• Advanced - I independently implement and support enterprise technology solutions with minimal supervision.
• Intermediate - I regularly support technology solutions and participate in implementation activities.
• Basic - I have limited experience supporting enterprise technology solutions.
• No experience.

17

Public Sector or Enterprise IT Experience: Have you supported information technology services within a large, complex organization, such as a government agency, public sector organization, or large private enterprise?

• Yes
• No

18

If you answered "Yes," please describe your experience supporting technology solutions in a large or complex organization. Otherwise, please enter N/A.

19

Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.

• I have a master's degree or higher.
• I have a bachelor's degree.
• I have an associate's degree.
• I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• None of the above

20

If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.

21

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)

22

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