Design Team & Quality Support Lead

Design Team & Quality Support Lead

Salary

$80,496.00 - $105,612.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-OR-32942e

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

07/08/2026

Closing Date

7/22/2026 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 Transportation Engineer 3 to join the Olympic Region Plans Office. Reporting to the Assistant Plans & Design Support Manager, this Transportation Engineer 3 serves as a design team leader responsible for the successful completion and delivery of highway transportation projects. This role supervises and leads assigned design staff, coordinates work activities, sets priorities, develops, and updates the project schedule and budget, coordinates with specialty groups, provides direction and guidance, reviews work products for quality and completeness and communicates project status with the project engineer.

This position directly supports the agencys strategic plan by ensuring, through adherence to WSDOT policies, that work functions performed are administered to the expected quality, safety, and stewardship standards to support Washingtons long-term resilience. This position is expected to contribute to a workplace that fosters a culture of respect, equal opportunity, and a sense of belonging.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Design Team and Quality Support Leader will:

• Oversee assigned transportation design projects including the development and management of project scope, schedule and budget, preparation of preliminary and final plans, specifications, estimate, and completion of associated design documentation.
• Review engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards.
• Operate state vehicle to travel to project sites; conduct project site visits; determine needs and coordinate field and survey data collection.
• Understand, interpret, and prepare technical transportation engineering data; communicate data to internal and external audiences.
• Supervise and be accountable for design team members; coach and mentor employees; assess training needs of staff; provide training and staff development; and provide feedback and guidance; ensure staff have access to the tools and equipment needed to successfully perform assigned job duties.
• Plan, assign, and review work; provide guidance; monitor work product progress for timeliness and quality, and assume responsibility for the completeness and quality of employees' work
• Assist Region project offices in performing Quality Control checks; perform comprehensive Plans, Specifications and Estimate (PS&E) review.
• Perform on-site field reviews.

Qualifications

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

• Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated experience applying engineering principles, methods, and practices to project management in transportation or construction environments. This includes expertise in design development, construction techniques, and/or contract administration.
• Project & Design Oversight: Ability to oversee and review engineering designs and documentation to ensure accuracy, compliance with standards, and constructability, while supervising the preparation of plans, specifications, and cost estimates.
• Technical & Digital Proficiency: Advanced skills in operating Windows-based systems and engineering software, including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, Outlook), MS Teams, computer-aided engineering applications, cloud-based platforms, and system databases for project tracking and information management.
• Communication Skills: Advanced skills in professional communication, specifically in communication technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually by phone and/or in person.
• Leadership & Supervision: Skills to lead and supervise a diverse workforce by fostering collaboration across boundaries, building and maintaining effective teams, coaching and mentoring staff, and encouraging engagement and professional growth.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Transportation Project Design: Demonstrated ability to apply knowledge of transportation project design within a government agency setting, including navigating public sector processes, standards, and stakeholder coordination.
• Professional Engineering Development: Demonstrated commitment to professional engineering standards through attainment or progression toward certification, such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in Washington State.
• Civil Engineering Fundamentals: Demonstrated foundational knowledge of civil engineering principles and practices, typically gained through completion of a bachelor's or master's degree in civil engineering or a closely related field from an accredited institution.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
• Travel is an expectation of the position and may be required on a as needed basis. Travel is typically to perform site/field visits, attend an off-site meeting, meet with stakeholders, or attend training.
• 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. 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 State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

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 Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-32942e 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

Which best describes your experience overseeing and reviewing engineering designs, plans, specifications, and cost estimates to ensure accuracy, compliance with standards, and constructability?

• Extensive experience independently overseeing complex engineering designs, plans, specifications, and cost estimates while ensuring compliance with applicable standards and constructability.
• Considerable experience reviewing engineering designs, plans, specifications, and cost estimates and providing technical guidance to ensure compliance and constructability.
• Working experience reviewing engineering designs or project documentation under general supervision.
• Limited or no experience overseeing or reviewing engineering designs or documentation.

02

Describe your experience overseeing or reviewing engineering designs, plans, specifications, and cost estimates. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

03

Which best describes your proficiency using Windows-based systems and engineering software, including Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Teams, engineering applications, cloud-based platforms, and project management databases?

• Advanced proficiency using multiple engineering applications and project management systems to manage, analyze, and communicate project information.
• Proficient using Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Teams, and engineering or project management software as part of regular job duties.
• Basic proficiency using Microsoft Office applications with limited experience using engineering software or project databases.
• Limited or no experience using these systems or applications.

04

Which best describes your experience communicating technical information to diverse audiences, including individuals with non-technical backgrounds, in person, virtually, and by phone?

• Extensive experience presenting complex technical information to a wide variety of audiences and adapting communication for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Considerable experience communicating technical information to internal and external stakeholders through written, verbal, virtual, and in-person methods.
• Some experience communicating technical information in a professional work environment.
• Limited or no experience communicating technical information.

05

Which best describes your leadership and supervisory experience?

• Extensive experience leading and supervising teams, coaching and mentoring employees, managing performance, and fostering collaboration across organizations.
• Considerable experience leading projects or teams, mentoring staff, and coordinating work across multiple groups.
• Some experience providing work direction, mentoring, or serving as a technical lead.
• Limited or no leadership or supervisory experience.

06

Which best describes your experience applying transportation project design principles within a government agency setting?

• Extensive experience applying transportation project design principles within a government agency, including navigating public sector processes, standards, and stakeholder coordination.
• Considerable experience participating in transportation project design within a government agency and coordinating with project stakeholders.
• Some experience supporting transportation project design activities in a public sector environment.
• Limited or no experience with transportation project design in a government agency.

07

Describe your experience applying transportation project design principles within a government agency setting. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

08

Which best describes your current professional engineering status?

• Licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Washington State or eligible to obtain Washington licensure through comity.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification with plans to obtain Professional Engineer licensure.
• Currently pursuing Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or other professional engineering credential.
• I do not currently hold or pursue an engineering certification or license.

09

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)

10

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