Geodetic Field Engineer – Transportation Engineer 3

Salary : $69,756.00 – $93,840.00 Annually

Location : Thurston County – Tumwater, WA

Job Type: Full Time – Permanent

Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number: 23DOT-HQ-05240

Department: Dept. of Transportation

Division: Headquarters

Opening Date: 05/26/2023

Closing Date: 6/12/2023 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 highly skilled and experienced Transportation Engineer 3 to act as the Geodetic Field Engineer and join our HQ Survey & Mapping office. As the technical field expert and lead, you will maintain the statewide geodetic control network supporting WSDOT project delivery and location-oriented efforts on State highways. The Geodetic Field Engineer’s duties include conducting extensive geodetic, photogrammetric, bathymetric, and LiDAR specialty control, mapping and monitoring surveys, and directing the efficient function of field parties. This position will also procure equipment, perform field surveys, and ensure the quality and completeness of collected data and deliverables. In addition, you will provide technical guidance to HQ and Region survey staff, train personnel involved in geodetic survey projects, and efficiently navigate using various mapping tools and apps.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Geodetic Field Engineer will:

  • Research and recover existing geodetic control.
  • Review and ensure quality and completeness of collected and deliverable data for geodetic survey tasks.
  • Assist HQ Survey & Mapping staff to manage and maintain statewide monuments and control network resources such as databases.
  • Provide guidance and leadership to HQ and Region survey staff for statewide, high-precision survey data collection and network management.
  • Exercise specialized knowledge in procurement and operation of Global Positioning System (GPS) collection equipment.
  • Ensure quality and completeness of data and deliverables for survey tasks.
  • Implement new technology, techniques, specifications, procedures, and internal policies by applying education, experience, and research.
  • Provide technical guidance on pertinent aspects of control networks for highway design and mapping for statewide managers and personnel, as well as survey office staff.
  • Train crewmembers, region staff, consultant staff, and outside entities involved with survey office projects in the network maintenance, collection process, data management, and delivery of geodetic survey information.
  • Efficiently navigate using written descriptions/directions, physical road and site maps of all scales and qualities, aerial photography, and GPS-oriented mobile mapping apps such as Google Maps.

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

  • Two (2) years as a Transportation Engineer 2 or equivalent such as field survey control network management and maintenance.
  • Two (2) years of working experience preparing geodetic survey networks, plans, and schedules with geodetic surveys.
  • Two (2) years of experience processing and adjusting GPS networks, compiling, calculating, and submitting completed GPS and geodetic survey data.
  • Two (2) years of field crew experience with GPS and geodetic survey work. Working knowledge of photogrammetry practices, processes, and tools. Working knowledge of database use, planning, and maintenance.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have the following:

  • Working knowledge of Bentley MicroStation and InRoads Knowledge of surveying; minimum experience of three (3) years as a survey party chief/instrument operator or higher or two (2) years equivalent field experience plus a two-year survey degree.
  • Knowledge of Horizontal and Vertical Datum, the principles, differences, and applying the shifts when applicable to projects.
  • Knowledge and ability to schedule professional engineering, surveying, and mapping tasks.
  • Knowledge and ability to plan and estimate hours of work and accurate cost estimates for survey and mapping office operations and experience understanding of cost recovery operation, whereby assigned duties directly contribute to office financial stability.

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 requires statewide travel up to 80% of the time.
  • This position requires the ability to work on or near highways in all types of weather and traverse over steep slopes and uneven terrain.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov
  • 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.

Why WSDOT

  • Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensuring that our staff experiences the reward of public service while sustaining a routine that suits each individual’s lifestyle.
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum of 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 federal student loan forgiveness eligibility.
  • Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes various 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 your salary. Therefore, the “Work Experience” portion of the application must be completed in as much detail as possible.
To be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

  • An attached Resume outlines (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; it does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the “APPLY” button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to sign in or create an account. This step is required to apply for this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment where 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 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, Yasmin Munoz, at Please be sure to reference 23DOT-HQ-05240 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

01

Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as a Transportation Engineer 2 or equivalent such as field survey control network management and maintenance.

  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 9 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 8 – 9 years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 8 years of this experience.
  • I have 6 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 6 years of this experience.
  • I have 4 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 4 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
  • I do not have this experience.

02

Please select the response that best describes your total years of working experience preparing geodetic survey networks, plans, and schedules with geodetic surveys.

  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 9 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 8 – 9 years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 8 years of this experience.
  • I have 6 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 6 years of this experience.
  • I have 4 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 4 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
  • I do not have this experience.

03

Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience processing and adjusting GPS networks, compiling, calculating, and submitting completed GPS and geodetic survey data.

  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 9 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 8 – 9 years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 8 years of this experience.
  • I have 6 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 6 years of this experience.
  • I have 4 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 4 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
  • I do not have this experience.

04

Please select the response that best describes your total years of field crew experience with GPS and geodetic survey work–working knowledge of photogrammetry practices, processes, and tools and working knowledge of database use, planning, and maintenance.

  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 9 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 8 – 9 years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 8 years of this experience.
  • I have 6 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 6 years of this experience.
  • I have 4 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 4 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
  • I do not have this experience.

05

Are you willing to travel statewide for this position up to 80% of the time?

  • Yes
  • No

06

Can you work near highways in all types of weather and traverse steep slopes and uneven terrain?

  • Yes
  • No

07

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)

08

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

Required Question

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