Transportation Planning Specialist 3 (In-Training)

Salary : $58,704.00 – $87,144.00 Annually

Location : Spokane County – Spokane, WA

Job Type: Full Time – Permanent

Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number: 23DOT-ER-60153

Department: Dept. of Transportation

Division: Eastern Region

Opening Date: 05/24/2023

Closing Date: 6/18/2023 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 Eastern Region is currently seeking to fill a Transportation Planning Specialist 3 position in the Multimodal Planning Office. In this role, you will assist the Senior Transportation Planner with leading the development and implementation of various planning studies and transportation planning analysis involving multimodal subarea/corridor management plans, transportation modeling analysis and community engagement. The position will serve as an Eastern Region Multimodal Planning representative on various local multimodal planning efforts and will be responsible for developing and leading extensive community engagement.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Planning Specialist 3 will:

Lead, supervise and coordinate the review, evaluation, and preparation of multimodal reports/studies, analysis, and initiatives.
Identify and determine the appropriate analysis, community engagement, and plan/study deliverables.
Perform and/or lead geographic information systems (GIS) analysis for a variety of planning efforts.
Represent WSDOT Eastern Region in local agency, MPO, and RTPO land use and modal transportation planning efforts.
Lead or assist the review of local comprehensive plans and Growth Management coordination.
Lead the preparation and implementation of study schedules, community engagement plans, and elements supporting plan development.
Collaborate locally and statewide in identifying and planning “practical” multimodal transportation systems that provide for planned/current land use.
Perform or assist with travel demand modeling and operational analysis on traffic modeling, evaluate proposed improvements, draw conclusions from data forecasts, prepare reports that include specific recommendations concerning the development of rural and/or urban multimodal transportation systems.
Analyze crash data.
Prepare and present oral/written presentations internal and external to WSDOT.
Manage the development and updating of project websites and/or GIS platforms.
Develop study specific community engagement plan.

Qualifications
This is a Transportation Planning Specialist 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level 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.

At the Transportation Planning Specialist 2 level ($58,704 – $78,900 annually) the following are required:

A Bachelor’s Degree involving major study in transportation, landscape architecture, environmental planning, urban/regional/community planning, land use planning, engineering, public or business administration, public health, or related field AND one (1) year of professional transportation experience involving analysis and evaluation of transportation issues and problems. (Analysis of environmental issues and problems that involve transportation issues will also be considered qualifying experience.)

An Associate degree AND two (2) years as a or , , , Landscape Designer 1, or equivalent classification in city or county agencies.
A valid driver’s license.

At the Transportation Planning Specialist 3 level ($64,788 – $87,144 annually) the following are required:

A Bachelor’s Degree involving major study in planning, engineering, transportation, architecture, or related field AND two (2) years of professional experience in planning practices including analysis and evaluation of transportation issues and problems OR one (1) year as a , , or equivalent classification in local/regional agencies or private sector. (A Master’s degree in one of these fields can substitute for one year of required experience.)
Experience communicating effectively with diverse individuals and groups utilizing oral, written, and electronic communication methods.
Skills to perform field verifications, compile/collect data, prepare/review technical reports, prepare correspondence, and record information in a usable format utilizing a computer and available software.
The ability to travel to various locations through the state and work in the field in and around traffic.
A valid driver’s license.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

Four (4) years practitioner experience in transportation and/or urban and regional planning.
Experience using and interpreting results of travel demand models.
Supervisory and/or project lead experience.

Important Notes

In additional to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 4% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2023.
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 offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit

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. 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.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Daisha Jordan at Please be sure to reference 23DOT-ER-60153 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

Do you have an Associate degree, or higher, involving major study in transportation, landscape architecture, environmental planning, urban/regional/community planning, land use planning, engineering, public or business administration, public health, or related field? (Degree should be reflected in the education section of your application.)

If you indicated you have an Associate degree or higher, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, type N/A.

Please select the response that best describes your total years of professional experience analyzing and evaluating transportation issues or problems:

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 select the response that best describes your total years of professional experience analyzing and evaluating environmental issues and problems that involve transportation issues:

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 select the response that best describes your total years of experience as a Transportation Planning Specialist 1 or Transportation Engineer 1, Transportation Planning Technician 3, Transportation Technician 3, Landscape Designer 1, or equivalent classification in city or county agencies:

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 select the response that best describes your total years of experience as a Transportation Planning Specialist 2, Transportation Engineer 2, or equivalent classification in local/regional agencies or private sector:

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 your professional transportation experience including where you gained this experience. If you do not have this, please type N/A.

Do you have a valid driver’s license?

Do you have any practitioner experience in transportation and/or urban and regional planning?

Do you have any supervisory or project lead experience? If you have responded “yes”, please briefly describe this experience. If you do not have this, please type N/A.

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for an employment visa?NOTE: For purposes of this question “sponsorship for an immigration-related employment benefit” means “an H-IB visa petition, an 0-1 visa petition, an E-3 visa petition, TN status and ‘job flexibility benefits’ (also known as 1-140 portability or Adjustment of Status portability) for long-delayed adjustment of status applications that have been pending for 180 days or longer.” Please ask us if you are uncertain whether you may need immigration sponsorship or desire clarification.

If you have a visa, how much time remains on your current visa?

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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