Highway Maintenance Worker 1

Highway Maintenance Worker 1

Salary

$52,872.00 - $64,512.00 Annually

Location

Adams County - Ritzville, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-ER-61246m

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Eastern Region

Opening Date

10/22/2026

Closing Date

11/5/2026 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 dedicated maintenance professionals to help keep rest areas and highway facilities clean, safe, and well-maintained for the traveling public. In this role, you will support the upkeep of essential facilities and highway rights of way, helping ensure safe, accessible, and reliable travel throughout the region. Through dependable maintenance work and effective communication, you will contribute to a positive experience for travelers and support WSDOT's mission to provide safe, reliable transportation for Washington communities.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, the Highway Maintenance Worker 1's will:

• Clean, maintain, and perform routine repairs to assigned rest area facilities, grounds, and amenities to ensure clean, sanitary, safe, and functional facilities for the traveling public.
• Clean and disinfect restrooms and facility surfaces; replenish restroom and maintenance building supplies; collect litter, empty waste containers, and maintain fuel islands, parking areas, and building entrances.
• Collect monthly water samples and identify, report, and address facility maintenance, safety, and environmental concerns within assigned responsibilities.
• Maintain landscaped areas by mowing, pruning trees and shrubs, removing weeds and debris, and maintaining and repairing irrigation systems.

Operate, service, and maintain groundskeeping tools, mowers, and other assigned equipment; haul small equipment using a trailer.

• Remove snow and ice from sidewalks, building entrances, fuel islands, and other assigned areas to maintain safe access.
• Pick up and deliver materials and supplies, haul trash to the garbage dump, and perform other duties as directed by the supervisor.
• Assist with the safe cleanup and removal of unlawful dwellings; coordinate with law enforcement and the Department of Corrections, safely handle hazardous substances, objects, and potential bloodborne pathogens, use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and promptly report unsafe conditions or exposures in accordance with established procedures.

Qualifications

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

• Safety Awareness and Hazard Recognition: Demonstrated ability to follow established safety procedures, identify hazards, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and take appropriate action to maintain a safe work environment for self, coworkers, and the traveling public.
• Facilities and Custodial Maintenance: Demonstrated ability to perform routine cleaning, sanitation, waste removal, supply replenishment, and facility maintenance activities using appropriate tools, equipment, cleaning products, and established procedures.
• Equipment and Tool Operation: Demonstrated ability to safely operate and perform routine maintenance on hand tools, power tools, lawn and grounds-maintenance equipment, and other assigned equipment in accordance with established procedures.
• Physical Work and Outdoor Maintenance Demonstrated ability to perform physically demanding maintenance activities, including lifting, carrying, bending, kneeling, standing, walking, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven surfaces.
• Customer Service and Communication: Demonstrated ability to communicate respectfully and effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and members of the traveling public, including responding appropriately to questions, concerns, or difficult interactions.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Works effectively as a member of a team by communicating openly, supporting coworkers, sharing knowledge, and contributing to the successful completion of maintenance operations.
• 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.
• Ability to obtain a First Aid Certificate within 12 months of hire.
• Ability to perform physically demanding maintenance activities, including maneuvering and transporting various materials, bending, kneeling, standing, walking, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven surfaces.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Maintenance and Janitorial Experience: Experience performing custodial, janitorial, grounds maintenance, facility maintenance, or other related maintenance work demonstrating the ability to safely perform routine cleaning, maintenance, and repair activities.
• Equipment Operation and Maintenance: Experience safely operating and performing routine maintenance on lawn and grounds-maintenance equipment, power tools, hand tools, or similar equipment.
• Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance: Experience performing mowing, trimming, pruning, weeding, irrigation maintenance, or other landscaping and grounds-maintenance activities.
• Customer Service: Experience providing customer service or assistance to members of the public in a professional and respectful manner. Experience performing maintenance/janitorial activities in a related field of work.

Important Notes

• 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.
• 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 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 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.

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-ER-61246m 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 select the option that best describes your knowledge and experience with occupational safety requirements.

• Advanced: I have strong knowledge of occupational safety requirements and consistently apply safe work practices in shop and field environments.
• Intermediate: I have working knowledge of safety requirements and generally follow established safe work practices.
• Limited: I have limited knowledge and experience with occupational safety requirements.
• No experience.

02

Please select the option that best describes your experience of performing facilities and custodial maintenance.

• Advanced: Extensive experience safely performing repair, custodial, janitorial, grounds maintenance, or other facility maintenance work.
• Intermediate: Moderate experience performing janitorial or basic maintenance tasks, such as routine cleaning, sanitation, waste removal, and supply replenishment.
• Limited: Limited experience assisting with building maintenance or cleaning duties.
• No experience.

03

Describe your experience performing custodial duties and facilities maintenance. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

04

Please select the option that best describes your experience performing maintenance tasks, repairs, and physical work in a related setting.

• Advanced: I independently operate and perform maintenance on hand tools, power tools, lawn and grounds-maintenance equipment, and other equipment in accordance with established procedures.
• Intermediate: I regularly operate and perform basic maintenance tasks with various tools and equipment with minimal supervision.
• Basic: I have assisted with maintenance and repair tasks using some equipment and tools under supervision.
• Limited: I have limited exposure to operating or repairing equipment and tools.
• No Experience.

05

Describe your experience operating and performing maintenance on tools and equipment, including equipment used and types of work performed. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

06

Please select the option that best describes your experience performing landscaping and grounds maintenance.

• Advanced: Extensive experience performing mowing, trimming, pruning, weeding, irrigation maintenance, and related landscaping work.
• Intermediate: Moderate experience performing landscaping and grounds maintenance tasks.
• Limited: Limited experience assisting with landscaping or grounds maintenance work.
• No experience.

07

Do you have a valid First Aid Certificate?

• Yes
• No

08

Do you have a valid driver's license with the ability to operate a state owned vehicle?

• Yes
• No

09

This position requires the ability to perform physically demanding maintenance activities, including maneuvering and transporting various materials, bending, kneeling, standing, walking, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven surfaces. Are you willing and able to meet these requirements?

• Yes
• No

10

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)

11

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