Traffic Design Engineer (TE3)

Traffic Design Engineer (TE3)

Salary

$80,496.00 - $108,228.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-OR-32741e

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

08/13/2026

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 currently seeking a Traffic Design Engineer (Transportation Engineer 3) to join the Olympic Region Traffic Office and help improve the safety, quality, and efficiency of Washington's transportation system. In this leadership role, you will supervise a team of engineers and evaluating development and local agency projects that impact the state highway system. You will help ensure highway projects are designed and delivered in compliance with WSDOT standards, specifications, and policies. This position plays a key role in advancing WSDOT's mission by delivering safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation solutions while fostering a collaborative, respectful, and inclusive work environment.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Traffic Design Engineer will:

• Lead the review of developer, local agency, Design-Build (DB), and Progressive Design-Build (PDB) traffic projects to ensure compliance with WSDOT standards, project requirements, and the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
• Coordinate multidisciplinary reviews with regional traffic subject matter experts for signing, illumination, traffic signals, intelligent transportation systems (ITS), channelization, and work zone traffic control.
• Review traffic control plans, engineering submittals, and final plan sets to verify compliance and provide approval recommendations.
• Attend virtual and onsite project meetings to develop effective construction staging strategies and support the delivery of safe and efficient work zone traffic control.
• Provide technical guidance and recommendations to project teams, developers, consultants, and local agencies through meetings and written communications.
• Assess project implementation in the field and support Project Engineer Offices by identifying deficiencies and recommending corrective actions.
• Develop and review Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and traffic-related requirements for Design-Build and Progressive Design-Build projects.
• Support updates to WSDOT traffic policies, manuals, and standard plans by reviewing proposed changes, coordinating stakeholder feedback, and recommending improvements for consistency.

Qualifications

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

• Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated experience applying engineering principles, methods, and practices to project management in transportation or construction environments. This includes expertise in design development, construction techniques, and/or contract administration.
• Project & Design Oversight: Ability to review engineering designs and documentation to ensure accuracy, compliance with standards, and constructability. Apply advanced traffic engineering knowledge to analyze complex transportation issues, evaluate alternatives, and develop practical solutions.
• Technical & Digital Proficiency: Advanced skills in operating Windows-based systems and engineering software, including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, Outlook), MS Teams, cloud-based platforms, and system databases for project tracking and information management.
• Communication Skills: Advanced skills in professional communication, specifically in communicating technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually and in person, using a variety of electronic media, including, but not limited to telephones, email, text, video conferencing, and computer conferencing.
• Productivity: Ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously, prioritize workloads, and consistently meet project schedules and deadlines. Demonstrated experience working effectively as an individual and within a diverse team environment.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Engineering Knowledge and Technical Expertise: Demonstrated understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, transportation, or related engineering principles, methods, and standards.
• Professional Engineering Credentials: Ability to apply engineering judgment and ethical practice consistent with recognized certification or licensure requirements.
• Project and Program Management: Proven ability to coordinate, manage, and deliver multiple engineering projects involving interdisciplinary teams, support groups, stakeholders, and partnering agencies.
• Plan and Specification Review: Skilled in reviewing, interpreting, and validating engineering plans, specifications, and construction documents to ensure compliance with applicable standards and requirements.
• Engineering Analysis and Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to evaluate complex engineering challenges, develop alternative approaches, and recommend effective technical solutions.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• 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.
• 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 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 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 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 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-OR-32741e 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

Engineering Knowledge: Select the option that best describes your experience applying engineering principles in transportation or construction environments.

• Advanced - Independently applies engineering principles, methods, and practices to transportation or construction projects, including design development, construction techniques, contract administration, and project management.
• Intermediate - Applies engineering principles to support transportation or construction projects with responsibility for design, construction, or project coordination activities.
• Basic - Limited experience applying engineering principles through coursework, internships, or entry-level engineering assignments.
• None of the above

02

Briefly describe your experience applying engineering principles to transportation or construction projects, including your role in design development, construction, contract administration, or project management. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

03

Project & Design Oversight: Select the option that best describes your experience reviewing engineering designs and resolving transportation engineering issues.

• Advanced - Independently reviews engineering plans, specifications, and design documentation for accuracy, constructability, and compliance with standards; analyzes complex transportation issues; evaluates alternatives; and develops practical engineering solutions.
• Intermediate - Reviews engineering plans or documentation and supports design review or problem-solving activities with occasional guidance.
• Basic - Limited experience reviewing engineering plans or resolving transportation engineering issues.
• None of the above

04

Briefly describe your experience reviewing engineering plans, specifications, or design documents and resolving transportation or traffic engineering issues. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

05

Technical & Digital Proficiency: Select the option that best describes your experience using engineering software and computer applications to support transportation projects.

• Advanced - Regularly uses engineering software, Microsoft Office applications, project management systems, databases, cloud-based platforms, and collaboration tools to support transportation project delivery and information management.
• Intermediate - Uses engineering software and Microsoft Office applications to support engineering or project work.
• Basic - Limited experience using engineering software or computer applications in a professional setting.
• None of the above

06

Briefly describe the engineering software, project management systems, databases, or computer applications you have used to support transportation engineering projects. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

07

Communication Skills: Select the option that best describes your experience communicating technical information to diverse audiences.

• Advanced - Regularly communicates complex technical information clearly and professionally to technical and non-technical audiences using written, verbal, and virtual communication methods, including meetings, presentations, email, and video conferencing.
• Intermediate - Communicates technical information effectively to coworkers, customers, or project stakeholders as part of routine job responsibilities.
• Basic - Limited experience communicating technical information in a professional setting.
• None of the above

08

Briefly describe your experience communicating technical information to technical and non-technical audiences, including the methods you used (e.g., reports, presentations, meetings, email, or virtual platforms). If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

09

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)

10

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