Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training) | Multiple Positions

Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training) | Multiple Positions

Salary

$66,072.00 - $98,064.00 Annually

Location

Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-10278m

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

08/13/2026

Closing Date

8/31/2026 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 several motivated and detail-oriented Transportation Engineers to support the delivery of safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation infrastructure across Washington State. In these roles, you will assist in the development and administration of Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E) packages for highway construction projects and may serve as a member of a Design-Build team. You will help ensure transportation projects are designed and constructed in compliance with WSDOT policies, standards, and engineering practices while providing technical guidance and reviewing the work of engineers and technicians to support high-quality design, materials testing, inspection, documentation, and project delivery. Successful candidates will possess strong engineering judgment, and a commitment to delivering transportation solutions that benefit the traveling public.

What to Expect

These positions will perform work in office and/or outdoor environments. Inspection work may be performed outdoors in inclement weather on construction sites in daytime or nighttime. Exposure to hazards may include exhaust, high-speed traffic, steep or uneven terrain, and/or heavy construction equipment. Some projects may involve working under live traffic conditions, e.g., freeways, interstates, or highways.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer may:

• Serve as lead design; prepare and/or review project definitions, design files, various reports, environmental documents, design estimates, right of way plans, and contract plans, specifications.
• Perform project development work such as field reviews of projects and evaluate alternate designs requiring detailed analysis of collision data, capacity studies, hydraulics, etc.
• Utilize personal computers and workstations for horizontal and vertical alignment, earthwork and drainage analysis, quantities, cost estimates, technical written text and computer assisted design/drafting.
• Investigate and write justifications for design analysis; coordinate and review projects with cities, counties, and other agencies.
• Coordinate and assist other staff in preparation of quantities, estimates, grades, elevations, maps, plans, profiles, cross sections, details, structural notes and beginning level basic design.
• Prepare final plan sheets for design reports, contract plans and right-of-way plans; compute and check title reports in the preparation of right-of-way plans.
• Perform technical design work; calculate quantities for contract bid items for estimates; prepare materials and exhibits for hearings, public meetings, etc.
• Perform project inspection and material testing tasks; inspect construction activities to ensure compliance with contract documents.
• Travel to and from construction sites, as well as training venues.

Qualifications

These are Transportation Engineer 2 positions. 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, the following competencies are required:

• Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of civil engineering principles and ability to apply entry-level civil engineering practices to transportation-related projects typically demonstrated through formal education in civil engineering and/or Certification as an Engineer-In-Training (EIT).
• Communication & Collaboration: Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, to communicate, interact, and coordinate work activities with WSDOT staff, local agencies, contractors, consultants, designers, other team members, support offices, and the public.
• Engineering PS&E: Ability to read, interpret, review, and develop contract plans, specifications, and estimates in support of transportation projects.
• Engineering Technology & CADD: Demonstrated proficiency using engineering software, computer-aided drafting (CADD) applications, and other computer technologies to support project design and delivery.
• 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.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work outside in all types of weather conditions and traverse uneven terrain.
• Ability to adjust work schedules to meet project and contractor needs, including occasional nights and extended hours for inspection and construction activities/positions.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Transportation Design & Contract Administration: In-depth understanding of transportation design processes, contract documentation, and the relationship between design deliverables and contract administration.
• Leadership & Staff Development: Ability to provide technical guidance, mentor staff, review work products, and support the development of plans, standards, and estimates.
• Engineering Analysis & Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to apply mathematical concepts, including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, to solve engineering and transportation design problems.
• Technical Software Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office and transportation design software such as MicroStation, ProjectWise, and InRoads/OpenRoads to support engineering design and project delivery.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This recruitment will be used to fill up to seven (7) vacancies in Bellingham, Burlington and Mount Vernon; and may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

• Some positions will require regular travel to and from construction sites to perform inspection and/or materials testing.

• These positions are not eligible for remote work while performing construction-related or site review duties.

• 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.

• These are Transportation Engineer 2 positions. 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 Engineer 2: $72,900 - $98,064

• Transportation Engineer 1: $66,072 - $88,788

• 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 individual's 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-NWR-10278m 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

Which location(s) are you most interested in working? (Select all that apply)

• Bellingham
• Burlingham
• Mount Vernon

02

Engineering Knowledge: Select the option that best describes your knowledge and experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation-related projects.

• I have independently applied civil engineering principles to plan, design, review, or deliver transportation-related projects and served as a technical resource to others.
• I have applied civil engineering principles while supporting the design, review, or delivery of transportation-related projects.
• I have basic knowledge of civil engineering principles and have applied them in coursework, internships, or limited professional experience.
• I have little or no experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation-related projects.

03

Please briefly describe your experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation projects. Include the types of projects, and your role. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

04

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

05

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

06

Do you have an EIT certification?

• Yes
• No

07

Engineering PS&E: Select the option that best describes your experience working with PS&E.

• I have independently developed, reviewed, and/or approved contract plans, specifications, and estimates for transportation or civil engineering projects.
• I have prepared or reviewed plans, specifications, and estimates as part of transportation or civil engineering projects.
• I have interpreted plans, specifications, or estimates but have had limited responsibility for preparing them.
• I have little or no experience working with Plans, Specifications, and Estimates.

08

Please briefly describe your experience preparing or reviewing Plans, Specifications, and Estimates including the types of projects. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

09

Engineering Technology & CADD: Select the option that best describes your experience using engineering design software and CADD applications.

• I have extensive experience using engineering design software and CADD applications to develop, review, and deliver transportation or civil engineering projects.
• I have regularly used engineering software or CADD applications to support project design and documentation.
• I have limited experience using engineering software or CADD applications.
• I have little or no experience using engineering design software.

10

Technical Software Proficiency: Select the option that best describes your proficiency using transportation engineering software.

• I am highly proficient using multiple transportation engineering software applications, including Microsoft Office, MicroStation, ProjectWise, and InRoads/OpenRoads, to support engineering design and project delivery.
• I am proficient using several transportation engineering software applications to complete engineering assignments.
• I have limited experience using transportation engineering software.
• I have little or no experience using transportation engineering software.

11

Which engineering software have you used professionally? (Select all that apply)

• MicroStation
• OpenRoads Designer
• InRoads
• ProjectWise
• Unifier
• AutoCAD
• Civil3D
• Microsoft Office
• Primavera P6
• Other engineering design software
• None of the above

12

Do you have a valid drivers license?

• Yes
• No

13

Are you able and willing to maintain an adjustable work schedule that may include working long hours, nights, and/or weekends?

• Yes
• No

14

Are you able and willing to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds?

• Yes
• No

15

Are you able and willing to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions and traverse uneven terrain?

• Yes
• No

16

Transportation Design & Contract Administration: Select the option that best describes your experience with transportation design and contract administration.

• I have extensive experience developing transportation design documents and administering or supporting construction contracts while ensuring compliance with project requirements.
• I have experience preparing transportation design documents or supporting contract administration activities.
• I have limited exposure to transportation design or contract administration.
• I have little or no experience with transportation design or contract administration.

17

Leadership & Staff Development: Select the option that best describes your experience providing technical leadership or mentoring.

• I have supervised or led engineering staff, provided technical guidance, reviewed work products, and mentored employees in engineering design and project delivery.
• I have served as a technical lead or mentor and reviewed the work of others.
• I have occasionally assisted coworkers or shared technical knowledge.
• I have little or no experience providing technical leadership or mentoring.

18

Please briefly describe your experience providing technical guidance or mentoring, including the positions of the staff you supported. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

19

Engineering Analysis & Problem Solving: Select the option that best describes your experience applying engineering mathematics to solve transportation or civil engineering problems.

• I have independently applied engineering mathematics, including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, to solve complex transportation or civil engineering design problems.
• I have regularly applied engineering mathematics to support engineering design, calculations, or analysis.
• I have applied engineering mathematics in coursework or limited professional experience.
• I have little or no experience applying engineering mathematics to engineering work.

20

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)

21

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