Project Delivery Environmental Assistant (In-Training)

Salary : $55,755.00 – $82,845.00 Annually

Location : King County – Shoreline, WA

Job Type: Full Time – Permanent

Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number: 23DOT-NWR-12659

Department: Dept. of Transportation

Division: Northwest Region

Opening Date: 05/22/2023

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’s Environmental Office has a fantastic opportunity for a professional who has a passion for environmental issues and responsible project delivery. In this position, you will be able to apply your current environmental policy and biology experience and training as well as develop both the breadth and depth of your professional knowledge through hands on training and collaboration with WSDOT staff, Federal, State, and Local agencies, Tribal governments, and the public.

The primary undertaking of this position will be to provide environmental support to fish passage and habitat restoration projects: from early concepts through project completion and monitoring. Your involvement and initiative will be supporting the natural ecology of our region and the livelihood of the public. With this in mind, WSDOT is searching for someone wants to make a truly rewarding contribution. This is a unique hybrid role where you will spend about half your time as a biologist and the other half doing environmental documentation and permitting.

Note: This position includes an approved in-training plan; therefore, it may be filled at the Transportation Planning Specialist (TPS) 1 or 2 level. The salaries for these classifications are as follows:

Transportation Planning Specialist 1: $55,755 – $75,096 annually depending on qualifications.
Transportation Planning Specialist 2: $61,639 – $82,845 annually depending on qualifications.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Planning Specialist 2 will:

Prepare environmental documentation and environmental permit applications needed for the Region’s design/construction fish passage and transportation projects.
Develop scope, schedule, and budget for the required environmental processes during the project definition phase.
Collect field data to include wetland and ordinary high water mark delineations, and Endangered Species Act (ESA) documentation to support permit and other requirements.
Use and transport up to 50 lbs. of field equipment including shovels, machetes, augers, measuring tape, electroshocking backpack, dip nets, seines, fenceposts, fencing and clippers.
Operate and/or drive and maintain a WSDOT vehicle to and from field site visits.
Ensure that all environmental laws, rules, regulations, and policies are followed on all aspects of the construction program by providing data entry and management of environmental commitments in the Commitment Tracking System (CTS) database.
Prepare environmental commitment notebooks (ECNs) that list commitments for environmental office staff, and for projects the incumbent has been assigned.
Support the Project Delivery Environmental Specialists with environmental compliance before and during construction.

Qualifications
This is a Transportation Planning Specialist (TPS) 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a TPS 1 OR TPS 2 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.

To be considered for the TPS 1 level, the following are required:

A Bachelor’s degree involving major study in transportation, landscape architecture, environmental or urban, regional or land use planning, engineering, public or business administration, economics, biology, or natural or physical sciences 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.

A master’s degree in an applicable field may also substitute for the required experience.

Note: Additional experience may be substituted, year for year, for the advanced (master’s degree) education, provided a bachelor’s degree in economics or social science has been attained.

To be considered for the TPS 2 level, the following are required:

Bachelor’s degree involving major study in transportation, landscape architecture, environmental or urban, regional or land use planning, engineering, public or business administration, economics, biology, or natural or physical sciences 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.

One (1) year 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.

A master’s degree in academic fields listed above.

In addition to (both the TPS1 & TPS2 level):

A valid driver’s License.
Apply knowledge of forest ecology, wetlands, wildlife, fisheries, and stream restoration to transportation scoping, design, construction, maintenance, and operations.
Develop and nurture healthy and effective working relationships with team members and customers in order to provide excellent customer service.
Effectively present materials and information to diverse stakeholder groups.
Accurately perform complex mathematical calculations, use a computer to evaluate data, prepare reports, databases, and Word documents.
Efficiently compile information into reports and/or plans from sources such as field reviews and scientific publications.
Work effectively under stress.
Understand and provide clear written and verbal directions.
Prioritize and handle multiple work assignments, understand project budgets and schedules, and regularly report work progress.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

Experience with community engagement/public outreach experience.
Experience delineating wetlands.
GIS experience.
Experience identifying native and non-native plants.
Experience identifying and working with juvenile salmonids typically found in Washington.

Important Notes

This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 4% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2023.
The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
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.
In accordance with our collective bargaining agreements, employees in represented positions must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.
WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit

Why WSDOT

Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
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.

Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at Please be sure to reference Transportation Planning Specialist 2 #12659 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 education:

Master’s degree or higher
Bachelor’s degree
Associate’s or Technical (2-year) degree
Some college, no degree
High School Diploma
None of the above

Please list the field of study you have completed, as well as any other academic and/or professional development course you have completed. If you do not have this, please note ‘N/A’.

Please select the response that best describes your total years of professional experience involving field biology and the application of environmental regulation:

I have three (3) or more 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
I do not have this experience

Please briefly describe your professional experience involving field biology and the application of environmental regulation. If you do not have this please note ‘N/A’.

Please select the response that best describes your total years 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:

I have three (3) or more 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
I do not have this experience

Please briefly describe your 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. If you do not have this experience, please note ‘N/A’.

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 three (3) or more 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
I do not have this experience

Do you have a valid drivers license?

Are you able to traverse irregular and uneven terrain during all types of weather conditions?

Please select the areas that you have experience with (select all that apply):

Community Engagement/Public Outreach
Delineating wetlands
GIS experience
Identifying native and non-native plants
Identifying and working with juvenile salmonids typically found in Washington
None of the above

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
“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:

In accordance with our collective bargaining agreements, employees in represented positions must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position. Are you willing to accept and comply with this condition of employment?

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