Heavy Equipment Mechanic 4 | Mt. Vernon & Seattle

Heavy Equipment Mechanic 4 | Mt. Vernon & Seattle

Salary

$98,064.00 - $113,736.00 Annually

Location

Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-13491em

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

09/21/2026

Closing Date

10/5/2026 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 Heavy Equipment Mechanic 4 positions to support the Northwest Region's Transportation Equipment Fund (TEF) by ensuring vehicles and equipment are well maintained and available to safely and efficiently serve the public. These positions provides leadership and oversight of regional equipment maintenance operations while supporting informed decisions related to equipment purchasing, outfitting, and resource management. By promoting high standards for quality, safety, and stewardship, this role helps ensure WSDOT crews have the dependable equipment needed to maintain Washington's transportation system and support safe, reliable travel. These positions also play an important role in fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace where employees can contribute and succeed.

What to Expect

This recruitment will fill two positions, with opportunities based in Seattle and Mount Vernon.

Work is primarily performed indoors in an office, warehouse, and active heavy equipment repair facility, with occasional outdoor work in inclement weather. The position requires working around uneven surfaces, confined and elevated spaces, heavy and awkward equipment, and performing physical tasks such as bending, twisting, reaching, and maneuvering in tight locations. Employees may be exposed to hazards including loud noise, engine exhaust, metal fabrication activities, hazardous materials, chemicals, and repair shop tools and equipment. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with flexible or compressed schedules. Weekend, holiday, nighttime, standby, and emergency call-back work may be required, including the ability to report to the duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Equipment Supervisor will:

• Staff Supervision & Development: Supervise, plan, prioritize, assign, and review the work of heavy equipment mechanics and purchasing personnel; coach and mentor staff, assess training needs, provide training, conduct performance evaluations, and recommend personnel actions in partnership with HR.
• Equipment Maintenance & Compliance: Oversee the inspection, repair, maintenance, modification, and compliance inspection of vehicles and equipment used in highway maintenance; review maintenance records and ensure staff have the tools and equipment needed to perform assigned work.
• Fleet Budget & Financial Management: Assist the Equipment Superintendent and Asst. Superintendent with budgets, equipment replacement schedules, and fleet logistical support plans; monitor operating and capital expenditures, prepare cost estimates, review invoices, and maintain accurate fleet financial and performance information.
• Fleet Data & Inventory Management: Utilize fleet management systems to maintain and analyze equipment data, work orders, repair and PM records, parts and tooling inventories, fuel inventory, and related technical documentation in accordance with TEF rules and agency requirements.
• Equipment Purchasing & Vendor Management: Review equipment specifications and requisitions, coordinate with user groups to identify operational needs, evaluate bid documents, prepare purchase orders, and negotiate with vendors regarding equipment availability, specifications, warranties, pricing, and related issues.
• Fleet Operations & Program Improvement: Analyze fleet operations, equipment assignment, availability, utilization, reliability, and functionality to recommend cost-effective improvements; develop equipment specifications, evaluate rebuild versus replacement, and support fleet-related policies, procedures, and projects.
• Fleet Projects, Training & Testing: Lead work groups and fleet-related projects; prepare and deliver fleet presentations and training; arrange equipment demonstrations and testing to evaluate operational needs and requirements.
• Equipment Transportation & Operation: Coordinate equipment and personnel between regional shops and main shop operations; transport equipment between WSDOT facilities and vendor sites and safely road test and operate highway equipment, including Class A, B, or C equipment used in maintenance operations.

Qualifications

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

• Advanced Heavy Equipment Diagnostics & Repair: Demonstrated ability to supervise others and perform work in diagnosing, repairing, and overhauling a wide range of heavy-duty equipment systems, including diesel and gas engines, power trains, hydraulic systems, electronic fuel systems, steering and suspension, and braking systems (air, hydraulic, and ABS). Provides technical direction, reviews work for quality and compliance and ensure proper use of electronic diagnostic tools and scanning equipment to troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues.
• Leadership and Supervisory: Ability to train and supervise a diverse workforce while performing hands-on mechanical work, including the ability to work across organizational boundaries; build, direct, and sustain effective teams; coach, mentor, and train mechanics and support staff; and promote employee engagement, collaboration, and a positive safety-focused work environment.
• Technical & Administrative Proficiency: Proficient in the use of Fleet Equipment Management software and standard computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook). Proficient in reading and interpreting equipment manuals, technical drawings, and blueprints. Ability to maintain accurate repair and maintenance documentation.
• Communication & Collaborative Partnerships: Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, professionally, and effectively-both verbally and in writing-with mechanics, supervisors, managers, vendors, and other stakeholders in diverse settings, including in-person and virtual environments. Effectively uses multiple communication tools and electronic media (e.g., telephone, email, text, video and computer conferencing) to share technical information, expectations, and operational updates. Builds and sustains collaborative working relationships with internal and external customers to resolve issues, coordinate work, and support the successful achievement of agency goals.
• Safety Awareness & Compliance: Thorough knowledge of occupational safety requirements and commitment to safe work practices in shop and field environments. Experience applying safety standards when working with heavy machinery, welding equipment, and hazardous materials. Ability to implement and participate in safety programs, training, and Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP).
• Licensing & Certification: Possession of an unrestricted valid drivers license to operate vehicles in Washington State. Required to obtain Class A CDL with N endorsement without automatic transmission or air brake restrictions within six (6) months of hire.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Journey-Level Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated journey-level knowledge and skill in automotive or heavy equipment maintenance and repair, generally acquired through completion of an accredited apprenticeship or equivalent formal training.
• Industry Certification & Applied Technical Knowledge: Demonstrated application of industry-recognized standards and best practices in vehicle and equipment maintenance, as evidenced by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications and/or equivalent professional credentials.
• Labor Relations & Union Environment Experience: Demonstrated experience supervising employees in a unionized environment, including the ability to apply labor agreements, manage work assignments, and maintain positive labor-management relationships.
• Organizational & Procurement Management: Demonstrated strong organizational skills, including the ability to plan, prioritize, and coordinate work activities, and manage purchasing processes to support maintenance operations efficiently and cost-effectively.

Important Notes

• This recruitment will fill two positions, with opportunities based in Seattle and Mount Vernon. In addition to the salary range listed, the Seattle will also include a 5% salary premium and a 10% Group C assignment pay.
• Ability to obtain and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• 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 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:

• 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 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 Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-13491m 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

Please indicate which location you are applying for:

• Mount Vernon
• Seattle
• Both

02

Do you possess an unrestricted, valid driver's license that allows you to operate vehicles in Washington State, and are you able to obtain a Class A CDL with an N endorsement within six months of hire?

• Yes - I possess an unrestricted, valid Washington State driver's license and can obtain the required Class A CDL with N endorsement within six months of hire.
• No

03

Which best describes your experience diagnosing, repairing, and overhauling heavy-duty equipment systems?

• Independently diagnose, repair, and overhaul a wide range of heavy-duty equipment systems, including diesel and gas engines, power trains, hydraulic systems, electronic fuel systems, steering and suspension, and air, hydraulic, and ABS braking systems; use electronic diagnostic tools to resolve complex mechanical issues.
• Independently diagnose and repair multiple heavy-duty equipment systems, including engines, power trains, hydraulics, electrical/electronic systems, steering, suspension, and braking systems, using diagnostic tools as needed.
• Diagnose and repair several heavy-duty equipment systems using established procedures, service information, and electronic diagnostic tools with limited assistance.
• Perform heavy equipment maintenance and repairs involving selected mechanical systems under the direction of a journey-level mechanic or supervisor.
• Have limited heavy equipment repair experience but have performed mechanical or technical work and have the ability to learn heavy equipment diagnostic and repair procedures.

04

Which best describes your experience supervising, training, and developing mechanics or other technical staff?

• Independently supervise a diverse workforce, plan and assign work, review work for quality and compliance, coach and mentor employees, assess training needs, and provide technical direction while maintaining a safety-focused and collaborative work environment.
• Supervise mechanics or technical staff, assign and review work, provide technical guidance, and coach or mentor employees to support performance and development.
• Lead or coordinate the work of mechanics or technical staff and provide training, guidance, or feedback while working across teams or organizational groups.
• Provide technical guidance, training, or mentoring to coworkers or less-experienced employees but have limited formal supervisory responsibility.
• Have limited leadership or training experience but have worked effectively as part of a team and have experience accepting or providing work-related guidance.

05

Which best describes your experience using fleet management systems and computer applications to support equipment maintenance operations?

• Proficiently use fleet management systems and Excel, Word, and Outlook to analyze equipment data, prepare reports, manage work orders, track costs, and maintain accurate repair and maintenance documentation.
• Regularly use fleet management software and standard computer applications to maintain work orders, equipment records, repair information, and operational reports.
• Use fleet management or maintenance software and standard computer applications to enter, update, retrieve, and organize equipment and repair information.
• Use basic computer applications and electronic recordkeeping systems to document maintenance or work activities with established procedures or guidance.
• Have limited experience with fleet or maintenance software but have experience using basic computer applications and learning new systems.

06

Which best describes your experience communicating technical and operational information with employees, supervisors, vendors, customers, or other stakeholders?

• Independently communicate complex technical and operational information across multiple audiences and communication platforms; resolve issues, coordinate work, and build effective partnerships with internal and external customers.
• Regularly communicate technical information, expectations, and operational updates with mechanics, supervisors, managers, vendors, and other stakeholders and resolve work-related issues.
• Communicate technical or operational information with coworkers, supervisors, customers, or vendors and seek clarification to resolve issues and coordinate work.
• Communicate routine work-related information verbally and in writing using email, telephone, or other communication tools.
• Have limited experience communicating technical information but can clearly communicate basic work information and seek clarification when needed.

07

Which best describes your experience applying safety requirements when working with heavy machinery, welding equipment, hazardous materials, or in shop and field environments?

• Independently implement and enforce safety requirements, participate in safety programs and training, develop or implement Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP), identify hazards, and ensure safe work practices are followed.
• Apply occupational safety requirements when working with heavy machinery, welding equipment, hazardous materials, and shop or field operations; participate in safety programs, training, and PASPs.
• Consistently follow established safety procedures, use required PPE, identify hazards, and participate in safety meetings and training.
• Follow basic safety procedures and PPE requirements when performing mechanical or technical work under established guidelines.
• Have limited experience in shop or field safety but have demonstrated the ability to follow safety instructions and learn required safety practices.

08

Which best describes your experience planning, prioritizing, coordinating, and managing purchasing activities or resources to support maintenance operations?

• Independently plan and prioritize complex maintenance operations, coordinate staff and resources, manage purchasing processes, evaluate costs and specifications, and negotiate with vendors to support efficient and cost-effective operations.
• Coordinate maintenance work and purchasing activities, review equipment specifications and requisitions, work with vendors, and monitor resources, costs, and schedules.
• Plan and prioritize assigned work, coordinate equipment, materials, and personnel, and assist with purchasing or inventory activities using established procedures.
• Organize assigned work and maintain equipment, parts, or supply records while assisting with purchasing or resource coordination under guidance.
• Have limited procurement or organizational management experience but have demonstrated the ability to organize work, manage competing priorities, and follow established procedures.

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