Laboratory Technician (TT3) In Training

Laboratory Technician (TT3) In Training

Salary

$48,048.00 - $88,788.00 Annually

Location

Clark County - Vancouver, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-SWR-40075

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Southwest Region

Opening Date

09/16/2026

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 Construction Materials Technician to support the Southwest Region's construction program through materials testing and quality assurance activities. This position plays an important role in ensuring construction materials meet quality standards, helping deliver durable, reliable transportation infrastructure for communities across Washington. By supporting the quality and performance of highway construction projects, this position contributes to safer roadways and dependable travel for the public. Join WSDOT and help build and maintain a transportation system that supports safe, reliable, and cost-effective mobility for all.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Technician 3 will:

• Maintain current WAQTC, ACI, and WTTQP certifications required to perform hands-on materials acceptance testing.
• Perform a full range of materials sampling and testing procedures, including soil density curve development, Hot Mix Asphalt gradation, asphalt content and volumetric testing, aggregate gradation, PCC and grout compressive strength, and miscellaneous soils testing.
• Operate Materials Management System/Materials Testing System (MATS) software to enter sample and test data, report test results, and correct erroneous information.
• Perform annual and as-needed laboratory equipment calibration, repair, and maintenance; maintain equipment inventories and verification documentation and coordinate annual calibrations with outside vendors.
• Maintain and organize laboratory documentation and records, including equipment calibration, maintenance, verification, samples, and test reports, and prepare records for biannual laboratory review audits.
• Maintain laboratory consumable supply inventories and assist with setup and maintenance of field testing lab trailers; safely transport samples, equipment, testing supplies, and nuclear gauges between project sites, field offices, and laboratory facilities.
• Assist the Regional Independent Audit Inspector (IAI) with asphalt pavement coring, field materials sampling and testing, Aggregate Source Approval (ASA) sampling, soil testing including WSDOT portable penetrometer testing, and pavement condition data collection.
• Promote a culture of safety by participating in pre-activity safety planning, safety meetings and training, using proper PPE, completing facility safety reports in SIIRS, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

Qualifications

This is a Transportation Technician 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.

To be considered for this opportunity at the Transportation Technician 3 level, the following competencies are required:

• Applied Math & Measurement Skills: Demonstrated ability to perform multi-step calculations (areas, volumes, mass, percentages), and accurately use measurement tools such as rulers, scales, thermometers, and laboratory instruments. Demonstrated ability to independently check and verify materials testing calculation formulas and results against test method procedures.
• Computer Skills: Proficient at using email, file systems, and basic office software (e.g., Word, Excel), and laboratory information management software (e.g. Materials Management System).
• Materials Sampling & Testing: Demonstrated ability to independently conduct a full range of material testing (asphalt, concrete, soils, aggregate), document findings, identify potential quality issues, interpret test results, and understand specification requirements. Ability to independently diagnose and troubleshoot errors or anomalies in sampling and testing procedures, results, and equipment.
• Organization Skills: Demonstrated ability to manage and organize data and records such as materials sampling and testing records, laboratory equipment calibration and maintenance records.
• Communication Skills: Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and proactively seek clarification to ensure accuracy and understanding. Ability to communicate with project staff to resolve materials sampling problems including sample labeling, sample handling, sample size, and transmittal errors.
• Safe Work Practices: Working knowledge of workplace safety standards and safe work practices. Ability to consistently follow safety procedures, correctly use required PPE, and demonstrate safe behaviors on job sites.
• Equipment Operation & Care: Ability to safely operate and care for tools and laboratory equipment such as ovens, splitters, shakers, sieves, sampling equipment. Ability to perform maintenance, verification, and calibration of laboratory equipment.

In addition to the above, the following are also required at the Transportation Technician 3 level:

• A valid drivers license with the ability to operate a state-owned automobile.
• Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification and American Concrete (ACI) in assigned test methods or ability to obtain within first year of hire.
• Proficiency with Materials Management System or equivalent laboratory management software, data collectors, and ability to create simple drawings, spreadsheets, or digital records.

Preferred Qualifications For Transportation Technician 3:

• Experience gained through construction or maintenance of roadways and bridges including, but not limited to, knowledge of materials used to build roads and bridges, field inspection and material testing, and quality control/quality assurance verifying work meets specifications, tolerances, and standards.
• Possession of two or more Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) qualified tester certifications in HMA Production, Testing, and Sampling; Aggregate Production, Testing and Inspection; and Nuke Gauge, Embankment/Surfacing/Pavement Applications.
• Possession of an American Concrete Institute (ACI) qualified tester certification or equivalent.

To be considered for this opportunity at the Transportation Technician 2 level, the following competencies are required:

• Applied Math & Measurement Skills: Demonstrated ability to perform multi-step calculations (areas, volumes, mass, percentages) and accurately use measurement tools such as rulers, scales, and thermometers. Ability to independently check and verify quantities.
• Computer Skills: Proficient at using email, file systems, and basic office software (e.g., Word, Excel), and ability to learn specialized software and equipment (e.g., data collectors and Materials Management System) with guidance.
• Materials Sampling & Testing: Basic ability in materials testing or lab procedures, and basic ability to interpret test results, recognize potential errors or anomalies in results, and understand tolerances.
• Organization Skills: Demonstrated ability to manage and organize data and records such as materials sampling and testing records, laboratory equipment calibration and maintenance records.
• Communication Skills: Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and proactively seek clarification to ensure accuracy and understanding.
• Safe Work Practices: Working knowledge of workplace safety standards and safe work practices. Ability to consistently follow safety procedures, correctly use required PPE, and demonstrate safe behaviors on job sites.
• Equipment Operation: Ability to safely operate and care for tools and laboratory equipment such as ovens, splitters, shakers, sieves, sampling equipment, and ability to learn standard equipment maintenance procedures.

In addition to the above, the following are also required for Transportation Technician 2 level:

• A valid drivers license with the ability to operate a state-owned automobile.
• Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification and American Concrete (ACI) in assigned test methods or ability to obtain within first year of hire.

Preferred Qualifications For Transportation Technician 2:

• Experience gained through construction or maintenance of roadways and bridges.
• Possession of one or more Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) qualified tester certifications in HMA Production, Testing, and Sampling; Aggregate Production, Testing and Inspection; and Nuke Gauge, Embankment/Surfacing/Pavement Applications.
• Possession of an American Concrete Institute (ACI) qualified tester certification or equivalent.

To be considered for this opportunity at the Transportation Technician 1 level, the following competencies are required:

• Applied Math & Measurement Skills: Demonstrated ability to perform multi-step calculations (areas, volumes, mass, percentages).
• Computer Skills: Proficient at using email, file systems, and basic office software (e.g., Word, Excel), and ability to learn specialized software and equipment (e.g., data collectors and Materials Management System) with guidance.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to accurately complete tasks, monitor own work for quality, and follow checklists and step-by-step procedures reliably.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and proactively seek clarification to ensure accuracy and understanding.
• Safe Work Practices: Understands basic safety rules and can follow safety instructions and willingly participates in safety training and applies safe behaviors on job sites.
• Work Ethic & Reliability: Demonstrates punctuality, responsibility, and willingness to learn, and works effectively as part of a team and accepts supervision and feedback.

In addition to the above, the following are also required at the Transportation Technician 1 level:

• A valid drivers license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle.
• Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification and American Concrete (ACI) in assigned test methods or ability to obtain within first year of hire.

Preferred Qualifications For Transportation Technician 1:

• Experience gained through construction or maintenance of roadways and bridges.
• Experience performing equipment or materials testing not specific to highway construction context.
• Experience performing skilled or technical labor.

At all levels

• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

Important Notes

• This recruitment will be used to fill six (6) permanent positions within the Southwest Region, in Chehalis, WA or Vancouver, WA. This recruitment may also be used to fill additional vacated positions.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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 is a Transportation Technician 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:
• Transportation Technician 3: $66,072 - $88,788
• Transportation Technician 2: $56,952 - $76,608
• Transportation Technician 1: $48,048 - $64,512
• 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 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.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SWR-40075 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

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

• Yes
• No

02

Please identify your current WAQTC and ACI certifications, including the specific test methods for which you are qualified. If you do not currently hold these certifications, indicate your ability to obtain the required certifications.

03

Please describe your experience using Materials Management System/Materials Testing System (MATS) or equivalent laboratory management software, including entering sample and test data, reporting results, or maintaining digital records.

04

Which best describes your experience performing materials sampling and testing?

• Independently perform a broad range of asphalt, concrete, soils, and aggregate sampling and testing; interpret results, identify quality issues, and troubleshoot testing errors or anomalies.
• Independently perform several types of materials sampling and testing, interpret test results, and recognize potential quality issues or testing anomalies.
• Perform materials sampling and testing with limited guidance and can interpret basic test results and identify obvious errors or anomalies.
• Have performed basic laboratory, construction materials, or similar testing procedures under guidance or supervision.
• Have limited or no experience performing materials sampling or testing but have experience learning and following technical procedures.

05

Which best describes your experience applying mathematics and measurement skills in technical or laboratory work?

• Independently perform multi-step calculations involving areas, volumes, mass, and percentages; accurately use measurement tools and verify calculations and test results against established procedures.
• Independently perform multi-step calculations and accurately use measurement tools such as scales, rulers, thermometers, or laboratory instruments.
• Perform routine calculations and measurements using established procedures, with limited assistance when needed.
• Perform basic calculations and measurements by following step-by-step instructions or checklists.
• Have limited experience performing technical calculations or measurements but have demonstrated ability to learn and follow established procedures.

06

Which best describes your experience operating, maintaining, verifying, or calibrating laboratory or technical equipment?

• Independently operates a variety of laboratory/testing equipment and perform equipment maintenance, verification, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Independently operate a variety of laboratory/testing equipment and perform routine maintenance and verification.
• Safely operate laboratory/testing equipment and perform routine care and maintenance with limited guidance.
• Have experience safely operating tools or technical equipment while following established procedures and receiving guidance on maintenance.
• Have limited experience with laboratory or technical equipment but have demonstrated the ability to learn equipment operation and care procedures.

07

Which best describes your experience managing technical data, records, and documentation?

• Independently manage and organize complex technical records, including sampling/testing records, equipment calibration and maintenance records, and documentation required for laboratory audits or reviews.
• Independently maintain and organize multiple types of technical records and ensure documentation is complete and accurate.
• Maintain and organize technical data and records using established procedures, checklists, or electronic systems.
• Maintain basic records and documentation with guidance and review for accuracy.
• Have limited experience maintaining technical records but have demonstrated the ability to follow procedures and maintain accurate information.

08

Which best describes your experience communicating about technical work, resolving issues, or seeking clarification?

• Independently communicate technical information with project staff, identify and resolve sampling or testing problems, and proactively seek clarification when requirements or results are unclear.
• Communicate technical information clearly, identify issues with samples or test results, and seek clarification to resolve problems.
• Communicate routine technical information and seek clarification when needed to complete assigned work accurately.
• Communicate basic work-related information and ask questions when provided guidance or supervision.
• Have limited experience communicating technical or work-related information but can follow instructions and ask for clarification.

09

Which best describes your experience applying safe work practices in laboratory, construction, or field environments?

• Consistently apply safety procedures independently, correctly use required PPE, participate in safety planning and training, identify hazards, and promote safe work practices.
• Consistently follow safety procedures and PPE requirements, participate in safety meetings and training, and identify and report workplace hazards.
• Follow established safety procedures and PPE requirements and participate in required safety training with limited supervision.
• Follow basic safety rules and instructions, use required PPE and participate in safety training.
• Have limited workplace safety experience but demonstrate the ability and willingness to learn and follow safety procedures.

10

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)

11

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