Bridge Maintenance Specialist Lead

Bridge Maintenance Specialist Lead

Salary

$83,835.00 - $97,207.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle - Mercer Island, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-10730e

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

09/17/2026

Closing Date

9/28/2026 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 a skilled and motivated leader to serve as the Bridge Maintenance Specialist Lead on beautiful Mercer Island, WA! This is a unique opportunity to help care for one of Washington's most recognizable transportation assets, the I-90 Floating Bridge. Under the direction of a Maintenance Specialist 5, you'll provide hands-on leadership, guidance, and technical support to the I-90 Floating Bridge crew as they work to safely maintain, inspect, and repair the bridge and its maintenance facility.

In this role, your expertise and leadership will help keep this critical transportation link operating safely and reliably for the thousands of people who travel across Lake Washington each day. If you enjoy specialized maintenance work, solving complex problems, working as part of a skilled team, and taking pride in maintaining infrastructure that keeps Washington moving, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact.

What to Expect

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

• Provide safe and effective leadership for inspection, maintenance and repair of the I-90 Floating Bridge and Maintenance Facility.
• Plan, schedule, direct, support and prioritize work of the I-90 Floating Bridge crew in safely conducting inspections, preventative maintenance, performing repairs and operation per OIMs (Operation, Inspection and Maintenance) Manuals.
• Lead and direct the I-90 Floating Bridge crews, and perform Journey-level bridge work in routine, preventative maintenance and repairs.
• Fabricate steel and aluminum components using proper tools and techniques depending on the task assigned. •
• Perform work on navigation lighting, cathodic protection, workboat moorage condition, and readiness for wind events.
• Adjust pontoon positioning cables with the use of hydraulic pumps and related equipment. Perform repairs to boater protection buoys and cables.
• Dehumidifying pontoon interiors, and other related systems.
• With a general understanding of the operation of bridge control systems, lead and support the maintenance on the bridge control system and components of which include: Water sensors, Fire systems, Facility HVAC, standby generator and related switchgear and weather stations.
• Perform routine and post event bridge inspections for both bridge integrity and pontoon condition.
• Support the Bridge Preservation Office (BPO) with mechanical and electrical inspections.
• Perform inspection of structures, which may require working at heights of 100' and greater, and in and around marine environments, to determine type and priority of work to be performed.

Qualifications

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

• Extensive Journey Level Experience: Extensive Journey level of experience in a related trade such as Construction, Steel fabrication, Carpentry, Electrician, Concrete, Mechanic or Millwright.
• Mechanical: Significant knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
• Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
• Building and Construction: Knowledge and understanding of structural systems such as concrete, steel, and wood which includes the application of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of bridges, or other structures such as highways and buildings.
• Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and ability to inspect equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
• Communication: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates. Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
• Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment: Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles or watercraft.
• Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Class A CDL, N tank endorsement, without restrictions E for no manual transmission and L for air brake restriction, or ability to get one within 6 months of employment.
• Flagging certification and completion of ASHTO Plans Reading course within six (6) months of employment.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to respond to assigned duty station with 60 minutes of an after-hours callout.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work elevated heights, above 25 feet over land or water.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Experience developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Supervisory Experience: Proven experience leading and/or supervising crews, providing clear direction, and making sound decisions in stressful conditions.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County. In addition, the 10% assignment pay for this job classification is included.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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 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 a 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:

• 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 of 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 recruiter listed.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference Bridge Maintenance Specialist Lead #10730 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

This position requires the ability to manipulate up to 50lbs with or without reasonable accommodation. Are you able and willing to perform this essential job function?

• Yes
• No

02

Are you willing and able to traverse uneven and steep terrain adjacent to traffic and heavy equipment in adverse weather conditions?

• Yes
• No

03

What type of driver's license do you currently possess?

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B
• Standard Driver's License
• None of the above

04

Please list any and all endorsements on your drivers license. If your drivers license does not have any endorsements, please type "N/A."

05

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

06

Which of the following best describes your highest level of experience performing journey-level work in a construction or mechanical trade, such as steel fabrication, carpentry, electrical, concrete, mechanics, millwright work, or a closely related trade?

• Advanced/Journey Level: I independently perform complex journey-level trade work, diagnose problems, determine appropriate repair methods, and may provide technical guidance or lead the work of others.
• Journey Level: I independently perform a broad range of skilled trade work and can complete assignments with minimal supervision.
• Intermediate: I regularly perform skilled trade work with some supervision, direction, or review and have progressively developed my technical skills.
• Apprentice/Helper: I have worked as a supervised helper, trainee, or apprentice assisting with skilled trade work.
• Education/Training: I have completed trade-related education or training but have limited practical experience.
• No experience: I do not have experience or training in a recognized construction or mechanical trade.

07

Which of the following best describes your experience applying knowledge of machines, tools, mechanical systems, and equipment to maintenance, repair, or troubleshooting?

• Advanced: I independently diagnose complex mechanical problems, determine appropriate repair methods, select tools and equipment, and complete or oversee repairs and maintenance.
• Intermediate: I regularly troubleshoot, repair, maintain, or adjust mechanical equipment and systems using a variety of tools and equipment.
• Developing: I perform routine mechanical maintenance and repairs with some supervision or assistance.
• Limited: I have assisted with mechanical maintenance, repair, equipment operation, or troubleshooting.
• Education/Training: I have completed mechanical education or training but have limited hands-on experience.
• No experience: I do not have education, training, or experience applying mechanical knowledge.

08

Which of the following best describes your experience applying mathematics to skilled trade, construction, mechanical, or maintenance work?

• Advanced: I regularly apply mathematical concepts such as measurements, geometry, algebra, formulas, ratios, and calculations to solve complex technical or trade-related problems.
• Intermediate: I regularly perform measurements and mathematical calculations involving dimensions, quantities, angles, materials, or equipment as part of my work.
• Developing: I perform basic mathematical calculations and measurements as part of assigned construction, maintenance, or mechanical work.
• Limited: I have applied basic mathematics through work, training, apprenticeships, or academic projects.
• Education/Training: I have completed relevant mathematics coursework or training but have limited workplace application.
• No experience: I do not have experience applying mathematics to technical or trade-related work.

09

Which of the following best describes your experience applying knowledge of structural materials and construction methods, such as concrete, steel, and wood, to the construction, inspection, maintenance, or repair of structures?

• Advanced: I independently evaluate and perform complex construction, maintenance, or repair work involving structural systems and materials such as steel, concrete, or wood.
• Intermediate: I regularly perform or support construction, inspection, maintenance, or repair work involving structural materials and understand how construction methods affect structural components.
• Developing: I have performed construction or maintenance tasks involving structural materials under the direction of experienced personnel.
• Limited: I have assisted with construction, repair, inspection, or maintenance of structures or facilities.
• Education/Training: I have completed education or training related to structural systems, construction methods, or materials but have limited practical experience.
• No experience: I do not have education, training, or experience related to structural construction or repair.

10

Which of the following best describes your experience applying engineering principles, technical procedures, or technology to inspect equipment, structures, or materials and identify problems or defects?

• Advanced: I independently inspect equipment, structures, or materials, analyze technical information and observed conditions, identify causes of defects or failures, and determine appropriate corrective actions.
• Intermediate: I regularly inspect equipment, structures, or materials, identify defects or unusual conditions, and use established technical procedures to troubleshoot problems.
• Developing: I assist with inspections and troubleshooting and use technical information, drawings, manuals, or procedures to identify and address problems.
• Limited: I have participated in equipment, structure, or material inspections through work, training, apprenticeship, or related experience.
• Education/Training: I have completed education or training involving engineering principles, technical systems, or inspection methods but have limited applied experience.
• No experience: I do not have education, training, or experience applying engineering or technical principles to inspection or troubleshooting.

11

Which of the following best describes your experience interpreting blueprints, engineering drawings, plans, specifications, schematics, technical manuals, or other technical information to perform maintenance, repair, inspection, or construction work?

• Advanced: I independently interpret complex technical documents to plan work, troubleshoot problems, determine repair methods, and verify completed work.
• Intermediate: I regularly interpret technical drawings, plans, specifications, or manuals to perform skilled maintenance, repair, inspection, or construction work.
• Developing: I use technical documents with some guidance to complete assigned work.
• Limited: I have had limited exposure to technical drawings, plans, specifications, or manuals through work or training.
• Education/Training: I have received training in interpreting technical information but have limited practical experience.
• No experience: I do not have experience or training interpreting technical information.

12

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

13

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