Bridge Maintenance Specialist 3 | Two Positions (Permanent & Non-Permanent)

Bridge Maintenance Specialist 3 | Two Positions (Permanent & Non-Permanent)

Salary

$69,348.00 - $80,496.00 Annually

Location

Pierce County - Tacoma, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-OR-32415em

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

11/10/2026

Closing Date

11/24/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking two Bridge Maintenance Specialist 3 professionals to fill one permanent and one non-permanent position in the Olympic Region Highway Maintenance Program. These positions perform journey-level maintenance, repair, operation, and reconstruction of the Tacoma Narrows and Thea Foss bridge systems to ensure their continued safety, reliability, and functionality. Working under the direction of the Maintenance Specialist 5, these roles are essential to preserving critical transportation infrastructure while prioritizing public and employee safety. These positions play a vital role in supporting WSDOT's commitment to maintaining safe and reliable transportation systems through quality workmanship, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.

What to Expect

You may work near high-volume, high-speed traffic, stand for extended periods, and navigate rough, steep, or uneven terrain. Some work may occur at heights or over land or water.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Bridge Maintenance Specialist 3 will:

• Perform journey-level maintenance, repair, and reconstruction of the Tacoma Narrows and Thea Foss bridges, including steel structures, bridge components, mechanical systems, railings, walkways, and other structural elements.
• Operate, inspect, and maintain specialized bridge maintenance equipment, including scaffolding, rigging systems, hoists, bridge cranes, and mobile staging platforms to safely access elevated structures and perform repairs.
• Prepare, clean, and paint bridge surfaces using specialized equipment while implementing hazardous material containment procedures, utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and ensuring coating quality.
• Conduct routine, preventative, and post-event bridge inspections, including assessments following earthquakes, high winds, and other emergencies, and document maintenance activities using designated tracking systems.
• Inspect, maintain, and repair electrical systems, including bridge lighting, wiring, controls, high-voltage equipment, transformers, and emergency power systems.
• Respond to bridge emergencies, traffic incidents, and severe weather events by performing emergency repairs, establishing traffic control, coordinating road and bridge closures, and conducting snow and ice removal operations.
• Support statewide bridge preservation activities by providing specialized access for inspections, assisting with emergency bridge installations, and maintaining roadways and associated infrastructure.
• Lead and train maintenance crews in the absence of the designated lead, including coordinating work assignments, providing equipment instruction, maintaining operational records, and supporting other maintenance activities as assigned.

Qualifications

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

• Collaborative Partnership & Customer Focus: Proven ability to build, cultivate, and sustain productive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to advance agency goals and deliver effective service outcomes.
• Safety & Technical Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of workplace safety standards, construction industry practices, and heavy equipment operations applicable to bridge and highway maintenance and transportation infrastructure work. Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of structural systems, including concrete, steel, and wood. Demonstrated knowledge of fall-protection PPE and rigging gear; proven safety record working at heights and/or in similarly high-risk environments.
• Communication: Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to convey technical and non-technical information clearly and professionally to diverse audiences, ensuring mutual understanding and respect.
• Conflict Resolution: Ability to address and manage confrontational situations with composure, ensuring workplace challenges are resolved professionally and respectfully. Proficiency in de-escalation strategies to diffuse tense interactions.
• Technical & Digital Proficiency: Proficiency in operating Windows-based systems and business software, including Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, SharePoint), cloud-based platforms, virtual meeting tools (e.g., Microsoft Teams), and agency databases used for project tracking, asset management, and information systems.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

In addition to the above, the following are also required:

• Licensing & Certification:

• Class A CDL with N endorsement, or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire.

• The ability to obtain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire.

• The ability to obtain a valid First Aid/CPR Certification within six (6) months of hire.

• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.

• Ability to work at heights exceeding 25 feet over land or water.

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, extended hours, alternate shifts, standby assignments, rotational day and night shifts, and emergency callouts as needed.

• Ability to respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions and report to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes when called back after hours.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Maintenance and Construction Experience: Bridge, highway/roadway maintenance, and/or construction background.
• Skilled Trades Experience: Experience in ironwork, carpentry, painting, rigging, and heavy equipment operation.
• Snow and Ice Control: Experience in winter snow and ice control operations.
• Equipment Operation and Transport: Experience operating and transporting equipment.
• Traffic Control: Experience in traffic control per MUTCD, including planning, setting signs, and flagging.
• Local Area Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of the surrounding area.
• Maintenance Equipment Knowledge: Understanding of equipment utilized in bridge and highway maintenance, preservation, or construction.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• The non-permanent opportunity is expected to last through June 2027.
• This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
• 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 Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

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 State Benefits for more information.

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:

• 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, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Yasmin.Munoz@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-32415em 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. Thats 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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Select the option that best describes your experience applying safety practices and technical knowledge in bridge maintenance, highway maintenance, or construction environments.

• Advanced - Independently applies extensive knowledge of bridge or highway maintenance practices, structural systems (concrete, steel, and wood), heavy equipment operations, fall protection, and rigging procedures to plan, oversee, or perform complex maintenance activities while ensuring compliance with applicable safety standards.
• Intermediate - Applies knowledge of maintenance or construction practices, structural systems, heavy equipment, fall protection, or rigging procedures to perform work safely with limited supervision.
• Basic - Has foundational knowledge or limited experience with construction or maintenance practices, workplace safety procedures, structural materials, heavy equipment, fall protection, or rigging through training or entry-level assignments.
• None of the above

02

Briefly describe your experience performing or overseeing bridge maintenance, highway maintenance, or construction activities. Include your knowledge of structural systems, heavy equipment, fall protection, rigging, and the safety practices you have applied. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A."

03

Select the option that best describes your experience using computer applications and digital systems to support maintenance, construction, or operational activities.

• Advanced - Independently uses Microsoft Office applications, databases, asset management systems, and digital platforms to track maintenance activities, manage project information, analyze data, prepare reports, and support operational decisions.
• Intermediate - Uses Microsoft Office applications, databases, or digital tracking systems to document work activities, maintain records, track projects, or support maintenance and construction operations.
• Basic - Has limited experience using Microsoft Office applications, databases, or digital systems to support administrative, maintenance, or operational tasks.
• None of the above

04

Briefly describe your experience using computer applications, databases, asset management systems, or other digital tools to support maintenance, construction, or operational activities. Include the systems you have used and how you applied them. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A."

05

What type of Driver's License do you currently possess?

• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• CDL Learner's Permit
• Standard Driver's License
• None of the above

06

If you currently hold a CDL, please indicate the CDL class and any relevant endorsements. If you do not currently hold a CDL, enter N/A.

07

Please select all of the following you currently possess:

• Valid Washington State Traffic Control/Flagging card
• First Aid/CPR certification
• None of the above

08

Are you able and willing to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain?

• Yes
• No

09

Are you able and willing to work at heights exceeding 25 feet over land or water?

• Yes
• No

10

Are you able and willing to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds?

• Yes
• No

11

Are you able to participate in emergency response activities, including working nights, weekends, holidays, standby, and call-backs as needed?

• Yes
• No

12

Are you able and willing to report in service to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call, or willing to relocate to meet this response time?

• Yes
• No

13

If selected for an offer of employment, which of the following position types would you be willing to accept?

• Permanent position only
• Non-permanent position only
• Either permanent or non-permanent position (no preference)

14

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)

15

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

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov