Salary : $43,428.00 – $80,112.00 Annually
Location : Snohomish County – Everett, WA
Job Type: Full Time – Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 23DOT-NWR-10227m
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Northwest Region
Opening Date: 06/27/2023
Closing Date: 7/18/2023 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 is currently seeking multiple Transportation Technicians to serve as Materials Testers in Everett, WA. This position supports inspection by sampling and testing construction materials used on WSDOT projects. These projects include materials documentation, field testing of earthwork, HMA, concrete, grout, geotextiles, and aggregates. The top candidate will ensure accurate sampling and testing using testing equipment and established procedures. The position is vital to ensuring that sampling, testing, and documentation of construction materials is accomplished.
What to Expect
This position provides services to customers located throughout the Northwest Region. Therefore, travel to job sites is frequent and will require driving to rural sites, often in the dark, in a WSDOT vehicle.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Materials Tester will:
- Collect materials samples, perform a variety of job-site tests, record test data and interpret test results.
- Perform soil density tests and aggregate tests such a sieve analysis, sand equivalent, and moisture content.
- Operate a nuclear densometer.
- Perform concrete tests such as slump, air entrainment and cast cylinders.
- Perform asphalt mix tests to determine asphalt and aggregate content.
- Review field notes and Contractor submittals for accuracy and compliance.
- Assist in preparation of materials documentation for project close-out.
- Inspect minor phases of construction projects.
- Assist in the inspection of earthwork, surfacing, drainage, and paving.
- Prepare quantity calculations and field note records for payment.
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 at the TT1-level, the following is required:
- Graduation from high school or GED equivalent
To be considered at the TT2-level, one of the following is 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 Transportation Technician 1. (College-level or vocational/technical course work in engineering, drafting, survey, mathematics, or other closely related fields similar to engineering will substitute for the required technical engineering experience on a year-for-year basis) OR
- Three (3) years of experience as a Maintenance Technician (such as a Maintenance Specialist or Highway Maintenance Worker), one of which must be as a Maintenance Technician 2.
To be considered at the TT3-level, one of the following is required:
- Two (2) years of experience performing semi-skilled technical engineering work as a Transportation Technician 2 or equivalent OR
- A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering OR
- Certification as an Engineer-in-Training
The following are required at all levels:
- Possess a valid driver’s license and ability to legally and willingly operate WSDOT vehicles
- Ability to lift, carry, and pull/push up to 50 pounds
- Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather
- Ability to work safely around construction equipment, high-volume traffic,
- Ability to work around chemicals in testing of concrete, asphalt, and earthwork in the inspection of striping, painting or other materials
- Ability to walk, crawl, stand, stoop, bend, climb, and maintain bodily balance while on an incomplete structure or on a ground surface
- Ability to traverse across rough and uneven ground that includes: highways, incomplete structures, highway rights of way, side slopes, ditches and vegetated areas
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Qualified WAQTC HMA, aggregate, and density tester
- Qualified ACI Field Testing Technician
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- Work may include confined spaces or heights (such as bridge railings or under bridges). This work is more than 50% outside in all types of weather, often at night. Work may include dust, smoke, and other odors.
- This position will work when the contractor is on-site. Availability to work all scheduled shifts and overtime may be necessary. This includes the ability to work days, nights, weekends and holidays when assigned.
- The salary range listed includes the legislative approved general wage increase of 4%, effective on July 1, 2023.
- This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the Transportation Technician 3 level, however the in-training plan will allow candidates to be considered as a Transportation Technician 1 or Transportation Technician 2, if not qualified at the highest level.
- Transportation Technician 1: $43,428 – $58,104
- Transportation Technician 2: $52,620 – $70,800
- Transportation Technician 3: $59,616 – $80,112
- 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.
- 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 telework options for eligible positions.
- 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, O. Dietrich, at Please be sure to reference 23DOT-NWR-10227m 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 highest level of education:
- Master’s Degree or higher in engineering
- Bachelors’ Degree in engineering
- Associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology, surveying, drafting or other closely related fields
- 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
- Some college-level or vocational/technical course work in engineering, drafting, survey, mathematics, or other closely related fields similar to engineering
- High School Diploma or GED
- None of the above
02
If you selected a degree or coursework in the previous question, please specify the degree you received. Otherwise, type N/A.
03
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience performing semi-skilled technical engineering work as a Transportation Technician 2 or equivalent.
- I have over five (5) 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.
04
In reference to the previous question, please describe your experience. If you have no experience, type N/A.
05
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience performing basic technical engineering work as a Transportation Technician 1 or equivalent.
- I have over seven (7) 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 one (1) year of this experience.
- I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
06
In reference to the previous question, please describe your experience. If you have no experience, type N/A.
07
Do you have at least three (3) years of experience as a Maintenance Technician, including at least one year as a Maintenance Technician 2 or equivalent?
- Yes
- No
08
Do you have certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT)?
- Yes
- No
09
Are you a qualified WAQTC tester?
- Yes
- No
10
If you answered ‘yes’ to the previous question, please list which modules. If you answered ‘no,’ please type ‘N/A.’
11
Are you a qualified ACI Concrete Testing Technician?
- Yes
- No
12
Do you possess a valid driver’s license?
- Yes
- No
13
Are you willing and able to lift, carry, and pull/push up to 50 pounds?
- Yes
- No
14
Are you willing and able to work outdoors in all types of weather?
- Yes
- No
15
Are you willing and able to work safely around construction equipment, high-volume traffic, chemicals in testing of concrete, asphalt, and earthwork in the inspection of striping, painting, or other materials?
- Yes
- No
16
Are you willing and able to walk, crawl, stand, stoop, bend, climb, and maintain bodily balance while on an incomplete structure or on a ground surface, and traverse across rough and uneven ground that includes: highways, incomplete structures, highway rights of way, side slopes, ditches, and vegetated areas?
- Yes
- No
17
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- Direct Email Notification
- WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
- Career Fair
- Monster
- WorkSource
- Handshake
- Engineering.com
- AASHTO
- NACTO
- COMTO
- APWA
- “NOW HIRING” banner/sign
- Radio advertisement
- WSDOT Employment Site
- Careers.wa.gov
- governmentjobs.com
- Other (specify below)
18
If you selected ‘Other’ on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question