Transportation Engineer 5 In-Training
Salary
$78,912.00 - $129,288.00 Annually
Location
Spokane County - Spokane, WA
Job Type
Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment
Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number
26DOT-ER-61031
Department
Dept. of Transportation
Division
Eastern Region
Opening Date
06/25/2026
Closing Date
7/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
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 Transportation Engineer 5 in our Eastern Region! As a Transportation Engineer 5 within the ER Environmental Department, this position supports WSDOTs mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options by ensuring projects comply with hydraulic policies and procedures. The ER Hydraulics Engineer provides hydraulic related support to ensure compliance with the Highway Runoff Manual, Hydraulic Manual, and environmental regulations including the Clean Water Act, National Environmental Policy Act, State Environmental Policy Act, Washington State Hydraulic Code, National Pollution Discharge Elimination System, and other WSDOT policies and guidance.
What to Expect
This is a Transportation Engineer 5 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.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
Professional Engineering Authority & Licensure:
Advanced Hydraulic & Hydrologic Engineering Expertise:
Demonstrated ability to independently apply advanced principles of hydraulic engineering and hydrology to:
Technical Review & Quality Assurance Leadership:
Demonstrated ability to:
Regulatory & Environmental Compliance:
Demonstrated knowledge andapplication of:
Project Delivery & Program Management
Demonstrated ability to:
Safety & Field Operations Competency
Demonstrated commitment to workplace and field safety.
Leadership & Supervision
Demonstrated ability to:
Experience contributing to a work environment:
Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Service-Oriented: Take action to meet the needs of others.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Specialized Water Resources Experience:
Hydraulic Modeling & Software Proficiency:
Fish Passage & Environmental Restoration Experience:
Policy Development Experience:
Important Notes
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
The salary range listed includes the 3% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026. This is a Transportation Engineer 5 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 Engineer 4: $87,048 - $117,120
Transportation Engineer 3: $78,912 - $106,104
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.
Administration (FMSCA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
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
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
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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference #61031 TE5 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 currently hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license?
02
Please provide your PE license number and state of registration. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
03
What is your level of experience independently signing, sealing, and taking professional responsibility for hydraulic engineering designs, reports, and recommendations?
04
What is your level of experience independently designing and reviewing highway drainage, stormwater conveyance systems, stormwater treatment facilities, culverts, fish passage structures, and open channel systems?
05
Describe your experience applying hydraulic engineering and hydrologic principles to transportation projects. Include the types of systems designed, your role, and project complexity. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
06
What is your level of experience performing hydraulic calculations and hydraulic or hydrologic modeling?
07
Describe your experience evaluating existing drainage infrastructure and developing corrective design solutions. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
08
What is your level of experience developing or approving Type A, Type B, Preliminary, or Final Hydraulic Design Reports?
09
Describe your experience identifying technical deficiencies, recommending corrective actions, and ensuring quality and regulatory compliance across projects. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
10
Have you overseen a specialized inspection, asset management, culvert inspection, or similar engineering program?
11
If you have overseen specialized inspection, asset management, culvert inspection, or similar engineering program - please describe the program, your responsibilities, and the scope of oversight. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
12
Select the project delivery methods for which you have provided hydraulic engineering support. (Select all that apply)
13
What is your level of experience conducting field investigations in active transportation corridors, construction zones, near water bodies, or other potentially hazardous environments?
14
What is your level of experience supervising professional engineering staff?
15
Do you possess a valid drivers license and have the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?
16
Have you designed fish passage improvement projects?
17
Describe your experience designing fish passage improvements and coordinating with tribal governments, resource agencies, or regulatory partners. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
18
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
19
If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
Employer State of Washington
Address View Job Posting for Agency Information
View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Website http://www.careers.wa.gov