Salary : $56,522.00 – $68,825.00 Annually
Location : Pierce County – Tacoma, WA
Job Type: Full Time – Permanent
Job Number: 23DOT-OR-32407e
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Olympic Region
Opening Date: 07/11/2023
Closing Date: 7/25/2023 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 safety-oriented individual to join the Incident Response Team (IRT) located in Tacoma, WA. As an Incident Response Technician, you will perform roving highway incident response in accordance with Traffic Incident Management guidelines. This includes quickly and safely assisting and relocating stranded motorists and vehicles, and responding to major incidents on WSDOT roadways, including assisting at collision scenes, removing debris, and performing traffic control operations to restore normal traffic flow as safely and quickly as possible.
What to Expect
This position will respond to emergency call outs, works extended shifts on short notice (days, nights, and weekends), and will perform standby duty on a rotational basis. It is an expectation that the WSDOT IRT personnel be able to respond to the assigned incident within 30 minutes of an after-hours call. This position requires work that is physical in nature and performed primarily outdoors. Exposures include working next to high-volume, high-speed traffic, traversing rough, steep, and/or uneven terrain.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Operate an authorized emergency vehicle within an assigned route; perform routine patrol or callout for highway incidents to expedite traffic flow.
- Observe and address potential or actual traffic impediments to keep traffic moving.
- Assist disabled vehicles, performing minor mechanical repairs, adding cooling fluids or fuel, changing flat tires, providing jumpstarts, and assisting with other roadway emergencies as applicable.
- Set up and perform emergency traffic control for blocking incidents on state highways according to departmental and MUTCD standards.
- Recognize highway safety features, infrastructure, or pavement damage severity; identify needs and request appropriate level of maintenance staff response as necessary for emergency repairs.
- Identify and assess initial severity of incidents and provides detailed information to the WSP, TMC, and other responders to expedite appropriate scene response.
- Photograph and document WSDOT property damage at scene and routes to appropriate personnel and emergency responders. Submits photos and enters incident data into appropriate computer programs.
- Utilize WSDOT and WSP radios as the primary communication device to relay information to emergency responders, and scene information and road blockages to WSDOT personnel.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Two (2) years of highway maintenance, logging, farming, excavation, or heavy equipment experience OR One (1) year of experience as a or equivalent.
- Possession of a Washington Class A CDL with N endorsement without airbrake nor manual transmission restrictions, or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire.
- Possession of a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card with experience performing traffic control per MUTCD including planning, setting signs and cones or barrels, and flagging; or obtain Flagger Certification within six (6) months.
- Knowledge of basic automotive skills to quickly repair minor problems, add correct fluids to proper reservoirs, change flat tires, adjust belts, provide jump starts, and provide gasoline for out-of-gas vehicles in accordance with IRT guidelines and procedures.
- Ability to traverse rough, steep, and/or uneven terrain.
- Ability to manipulate and transport materials that weigh up to 65 pounds.
- Ability to be on-call during all non-scheduled work hours with a 30-minute response time.
- Respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Ability to successfully pass a criminal history background investigation by the Washington State Patrol (WSP) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), including fingerprinting to enable them to operate on the State Patrol radio system, and to drive an authorized emergency permitted vehicle.
- To expedite afterhours callout (able to efficiently respond to a geographical area within the region), this position requires parameters of residence.
- This position is subject to the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
It is preferredthat qualified candidates also have:
- High school graduation, or possession of a GED certificate, or equivalent.
- Experience and training of tow truck operations.
- Knowledge of the “Emergency Response Guidebook” (ERG) as it relates to spill response procedures to protect self, other workers, and the public.
- Knowledge of National Incident Management System (NIMS), Traffic Incident Management (TIM) best practices in accordance with the National Unified Goal (NUG) for traffic management.
- Completion of the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) Incident Command System ICS-100/200 courses.
- Intermediate computer skills to operate various computer programs, such as Microsoft Office applications, internal WSDOT applications, and the internet.
- Experience in effectively communicating to multiple audiences, both orally and in writing.
- Experience adhering to safety policies and diligence in performing work in a safe manner.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- The salary range listed includes the legislative approved general wage increase of 4%, effective on July 1, 2023.
- The salary listed includes the legislative approved 10% assignment pay.
- 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 is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA). For more information, please go to
- 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.
- Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may 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 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, Alyssa Nastasi, at Please be sure to reference 23DOT-OR-32407e 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 highway maintenance, logging, farming, excavation, or heavy equipment experience.
- 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 less than two (2) years of this experience.
02
Please briefly explain how you obtained the experience referenced in the question above. This should also be reflected in your application materials. Otherwise, type N/A.
03
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as a Highway Maintenance Worker 1 or equivalent.
- I have over five (5) 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.
04
Please briefly explain how you obtained the experience referenced in the question above. This should also be reflected in your application materials. Otherwise, type N/A.
05
What type of Driver’s License do you currently possess?
- Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Class A
- Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Class B
- Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Learners Permit
- Personal Driver’s License (Standard Driver’s License)
- None of the above
06
Please provide your Driver’s License Number, list your endorsements, and any restrictions:
07
Do you have a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card with experience performing traffic control per MUTCD including planning, setting signs and cones or barrels, and flagging?
- Yes
- No
08
Are you able to report in service to assigned duty station within 30 minutes of an after-hours call or be willing to relocate to meet the required response time?
- Yes
- No
09
Are you able and willing to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency call-outs/stand-by?
- Yes
- No
10
Work includes traversing rough, steep, and uneven terrain. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?
- Yes
- No
11
Are you able to transport, move, lift, and manipulate various types of equipment weighing 65 pounds or more?
- Yes
- No
12
Do you have a high school diploma or GED equivalent?
- Yes
- No
13
Do you have experience and training of tow truck operations?
- Yes
- No
14
How you completed the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) Incident Command System ICS-100/200 courses?
- Yes
- No
15
Please select all you have experience working with.
- Emergency Response Guidebook
- National Incident Management System (NIMS)
- Traffic Incident Management (TIM) best practices
- National Unified Goal (NUG) for traffic management
- Microsoft Office applications
- Internal WSDOT applications
- None of the above
16
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- 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)
17
If you selected ‘Other’ on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question