Highway Maintenance Worker 2 | Colfax

Highway Maintenance Worker 2 | Colfax

Salary

$58,392.00 - $71,136.00 Annually

Location

Whitman County - Colfax, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-ER-60231

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Eastern Region

Opening Date

07/23/2026

Closing Date

8/3/2026 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 Highway Maintenance Worker 2 to join our regional maintenance team. Under the direction of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3, this journey-level position performs a variety of skilled highway maintenance and repair activities to help ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and commerce. The successful candidate will operate a wide range of highway maintenance equipment and tools while maintaining highways and related infrastructure. This position may also provide leadership to a maintenance crew in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3.

What to Expect

The typical schedule is Monday through Thursday, with four 10-hour shifts (40 hours per week). This position requires participation in a rotational night shift and may require working nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, standby, and call-back to respond to emergencies or operational needs. Employees must be able to report to the assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours call and respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, independently or as part of a team.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Worker 2 will:

• Perform skilled highway maintenance activities, including asphalt and concrete pavement repairs, drainage system maintenance, erosion control, and repair of signs, guardrails, fences, and impact attenuators.
• Maintain roadside areas by removing danger trees, managing vegetation, applying pesticides, establishing landscaped areas, and removing litter, debris, and deceased animals from state rights-of-way.
• Operate highway maintenance equipment and haul materials such as asphalt, riprap, sand, and gravel to support maintenance and construction activities.
• Support winter operations by performing snow and ice control, maintaining stockpile sites, loading materials, and operating snow and ice removal equipment.
• Lead maintenance crews in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3 by planning work, assigning tasks, and providing equipment instruction and on-the-job training.
• Assist with the safe cleanup and removal of unlawful dwellings by coordinating with partner agencies and following procedures for handling hazardous materials and potential bloodborne pathogens.
• Respond to emergency incidents by establishing traffic control, supporting road and bridge closures, assisting at accident and spill scenes, and coordinating with internal and external partners to restore safe travel.
• Document daily work activities, maintain inventory records, care for assigned facilities, tools, and equipment, and complete required training and other assigned operational duties.

Qualifications

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

• Heavy Equipment & Maintenance: Proficient in safety-focused use of road maintenance heavy equipment or equivalent relevant experience in logging, farming, mining, road construction, and/or excavation.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

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

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Possession of a Class A CDL, endorsement N (Air Brake restriction removed), to include a current valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate or ability to obtain within 12 months.
• Possession of a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card, or ability to obtain within 6 months.
• Possession of First Aid Certification, or ability to obtain within 6 months.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to report in service to the assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours call.
• This position requires participation in emergency response, including nights, weekends, holidays, standby, and call-back as needed.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Roadway Maintenance Experience: Proficient knowledge and experience performing roadway maintenance, bridge maintenance/construction, and/or heavy equipment operation.

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

• Possession of a current Class A CDL, endorsement N
• Current and valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate
• Possession of a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card
• Possession of First Aid Certification

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• Work is performed primarily outdoors and frequently adjacent to live traffic in all weather conditions. This position may require working at heights over 25 feet, in confined spaces, on rough or steep terrain, and at or below ground level. Duties involve exposure to roadway maintenance materials and chemicals, including herbicides, fuels, solvents, oils, lubricants, paint, cleaners, and hot asphalt, as well as potential exposure to hazardous materials and waste. Employees perform both stationary and mobile traffic control operations while working independently or as part of a team.
• This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

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 three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Yasmin.Munoz@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-ER-60231 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 briefly describe your highway maintenance/road maintenance experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

02

Please select the response that best describes your experience performing highway or roadway maintenance tasks (e.g., pavement repair, drainage, erosion control, vegetation management, sign/guardrail installation, debris removal).

• I independently assess needs, prioritize work, and complete a full range of maintenance and emergency repairs.
• I independently perform a full range of maintenance tasks with minimal supervision.
• I assist with maintenance tasks under supervision.
• I do not have this experience.

03

Please select the response that best describes your experience using hand tools, power tools, and maintenance equipment.

• Select, operate, and maintain a wide variety of tools and equipment safely
• Regularly operate common tools/equipment
• Limited or occasional use
• I do not have this experience

04

Please select the response that best describes your experience assessing maintenance needs and determining appropriate repairs.

• Independently inspect, diagnose, and recommend/complete repairs
• Perform assessments with guidance
• Limited exposure
• I do not have this experience

05

Please select the response that best describes your experience operating heavy equipment (e.g., loaders, backhoe, dump trucks with plow/deicer, mowers, sweepers, attenuators).

• I have independently operated multiple types of heavy equipment and performed basic maintenance
• I have operated select types of heavy equipment regularly
• I have limited or occasional experience operating heavy equipment
• I do not have this experience

06

What type of drivers license do you currently possess?

• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• CDL Learners Permit
• Standard drivers license
• None of the above

07

Please provide your drivers license number, list your endorsements, and any restrictions:

08

Please select all certifications you currently possess:

• A valid CDL medical card
• A valid Washington State Flagging Card
• A valid First Aid Certification
• None of the above

09

Please select the response that best describes your experience implementing traffic control and work zone safety measures.

• I have independently set up and managed work zones in accordance with MUTCD standards.
• I have assisted in setting up or maintaining work zones under supervision.
• I have limited experience in traffic control or work zone management.
• I do not have this experience.

10

Please select the response that best describes your experience performing snow and ice control operations (e.g., plowing, sanding, de-icing):

• I have independently performed snow and ice control operations and responded to winter roadway conditions.
• I have performed snow and ice control operations with some guidance.
• I have limited or occasional experience with snow and ice operations.
• I do not have this experience.

11

Please select the response that best describes your experience leading and/or supervising crews.

• I have led small crews or work activities and supported team performance in maintenance operations
• I have worked effectively as a team member and occasionally taken on informal leadership tasks
• I have limited experience working on a maintenance crew
• I do not have this experience

12

Are you able and willing to manipulate and relocate tools, equipment, and materials weighing up to 50 pounds from one location to another?

• Yes
• No

13

Are you able and willing to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency call-outs/stand-by?

• Yes
• No

14

This position performs work that includes traversing rough, steep, and uneven terrain and working at elevated heights, above 25 feet over land or water. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No

15

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)

16

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