Design & Materials Lab Support Technician 3 (In-Training)

Salary : $40,812.00 – $77,028.00 Annually

Location : Thurston County – Lacey, WA

Job Type: Full Time – Permanent

Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number: 23DOT-OR-32736

Department: Dept. of Transportation

Division: Olympic Region

Opening Date: 05/30/2023

Closing Date: 6/13/2023 11:59 PM Pacific

Description

About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world’s longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world’s widest tunneling project.

The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a skilled engineering technician to fill a Transportation Technician 3 vacancy located in Lacey, WA. This position will serve as a Design & Materials Lab Support Technician and assist with pavement design, pavement management, plans review, material sampling, and material testing for the Olympic Region Materials Lab. This position will assist with the preparation of pavement design reports, management of the P1 Strategic Preservation program, review design plans for pavement and/or other relatable material items, preparation of geotechnical reports for minor foundations and retaining walls, material sampling for the Aggregate Source Approval program, and laboratory testing. The individual in this role will ensure highway construction projects are designed in compliance with agency policies, procedures, and practices, and construction materials meet agency standards.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Design and Lab Support Technician will:

Research, collect, and organize existing pavement condition and construction history information using various WSDOT database systems.
Perform pavement structure design calculations using commercial software.
Prepare pavement design reports that summarize existing pavement conditions and provide pavement structure design requirements.
Receive, prioritize, and research project plans from requesting project design teams for materials-based support items.
Correspond appropriate review/comments based on Region Materials Office managed responsibility items.
Attend project design team meetings such as kick-off, monthly status to stay updated and current for approaching material office needs and deadlines.
Perform laboratory testing, and report results on concrete, asphalt, and aggregate samples following WSDOT testing procedures.
Enter test results in to the WSDOT Materials Management System (MATS).
Assist with annual equipment Verification Procedures by collecting, transporting, and assisting with certification of laboratory equipment.
Collect, transport, and deliver aggregate samples from commercial pits and quarries to the WSDOT State Materials Lab.

This position may also require laboratory work that is performed in the Olympic Region Materials Lab and field laboratory trailers. Exposure hazards include hot materials, dust, noise, and prolonged standing. Field work is performed outdoors, generally on or near a roadway. This work is sometimes performed in inclement weather and can be in daytime or nighttime. Exposure hazards may include high-speed traffic, exhaust, steep or uneven terrain, and/or construction equipment.

Qualifications
This is a Transportation Technician 3 () position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level (or ) depending on 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 as a TT1, the following is required:

Graduation from high school or GED equivalent.

To be considered as a TT2, at least one of the following are required:

An Associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology, surveying, drafting or other closely related fields. OR
Completion of an accredited vocational/technical program consisting of at least 1,200 instructional hours in Civil Engineering Technology, surveying, drafting, structural detailing, engineering design or other closely related fields. OR
Graduation from high school or GED equivalent and two (2) years of experience performing basic technical engineering work as a or equivalent. (College level or vocational/technical course work in engineering, drafting, survey, mathematics or other closely related fields will substitute for the required technical engineering experience on a year-for-year basis.) OR
Three (3) years of experience as a Highway Maintenance Worker, one (1) of which must be as a

To be considered as a TT3, at least one of the following are required:

Two (2) years of experience performing semi-skilled technical engineering work as a or equivalent experience. OR
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or similar field. OR
Certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT). OR
A Land Surveyor’s License.

In addition to one of the above, the following are also required:

Knowledge and understanding of engineering principles, methods, and practices.
Knowledge and understanding of material testing procedures.
Skills related to computer applications involving databases, word processing, CADD, and spreadsheets.
Ability to clearly communicate technical information.
Knowledge and skills required for checking calculations for accuracy and completeness.
Ability to interpret contract plans and specifications.
Ability to research and apply engineering standards.
Ability to clearly and concisely document project activities.
Certification as a Qualified Tester (WAQTC/ACI/WSDOT) or the ability to become qualified within six (6) months of hire.
Ability to manipulate and transport objects weighing up to 35 pounds.
A valid driver’s license to travel to and from project sites.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

Knowledge of WSDOT engineering and construction practices. This includes familiarity with WSDOT design manuals, the WSDOT Construction manual, the WSDOT Materials Manual, and the WSDOT Standard Specifications.

Important Notes

In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 4% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2023.
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options when laboratory or field work is not 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the level, however the in-training plan will allow candidates to be considered as a or , if not qualified at the highest level.
1. TT1: $40,812 – $54,492
2. TT2: $50,592 – $68,076
3. TT3: $57,324 – $77,028
WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. 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 occasional telework for eligible positions.
Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 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 for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:

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. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities 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, Alyssa Nastasi, at Please be sure to reference 23DOT-OR-32736 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. That’s 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 (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 (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 , 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, are entitled to three (3) 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

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

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

I have a Bachelor’s degree or higher.
I have an Associate’s degree.
I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Completion of an accredited vocational/technical program consisting of at least 1,200 instructional hours in Civil Engineering Technology, surveying, drafting, structural detailing, engineering design or other closely related fields.
None of the above.

If you indicated you have completed a degree, please list your degree, and field of study in the space provided below. Otherwise type N/A.

Do you have an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) Certification?

Do you have A Land Surveyor’s License?

Please select the response the best describes your total years of experience as a Transportation Technician 1, Transportation Technician 2 or equivalent.

I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
I have 1 – 2 years of this experience.
I have less than one (1) year of this experience.

Please briefly describe how you obtained the experience referenced in the question above. Otherwise, type N/A.

Please select the response the best describes your total years of experience as a Highway Maintenance Worker 1 or Highway Maintenance Worker 2.

I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
I have 1 – 2 years of this experience.
I have less than one (1) year of this experience.

Please briefly describe how you obtained the experience referenced in the question above. Otherwise, type N/A.

Are you certified as a Qualified Tester (WAQTC/ACI/WSDOT)?

Are you able and willing to manipulate and transport up to 35 pounds of materials and/or equipment?

Do you have a valid driver’s license?

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)

If you selected ‘Other’ on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

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