Highway Maintenance Worker 2

State of Washington

Olympia, WA

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JOB DETAILS

SALARY

$57,252–$69,744 Per Year

SKILLS

Aged Care, CDL Driver's License, CPR Certification, Childcare, Class A License, Collective Bargaining, Compensation and Benefits, Computer Skills, Computer Software, Computer Systems, Concrete, Cost Estimates, Diversity, Driver's License, Emergency Response, Employee Benefits, Environmental Impact, Equipment Maintenance/Repair, First Aid, Flexible Spending Accounts, Government, Hazard Analysis, Hazardous Materials/Substances, Health Maintenance, Healthcare, Heavy Equipment/Vehicles, High School Diploma, Incident Response, Inventory Management, Inventory Reports, Landscaping, Leadership, Maintenance Services, Material Moving, Microsoft Office, Needs Assessment, Nonprofit, Procedure Development, RIP (Routing Information Protocol), Radio Advertising, Safety Compliance, Safety Process, Safety Training, Safety/Work Safety, Student Loans, Team Player, Test Requirements, Time Management Software, Transportation Planning, Use Tax, Workforce Planning

LOCATION

Olympia, WA

POSTED

Today

Salary : $57,252.00 - $69,744.00 Annually
Location : Klickitat County - Goldendale, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-SWR-41144
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Southwest Region
Opening Date: 05/14/2026
Closing Date: 6/1/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

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, WSDOTleads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a Highway Maintenance Worker 2 to support the safe and efficient movement of people and commerce through essential highway and infrastructure maintenance. Under the direction of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3, this journey-level role operates a variety of equipment and tools to perform skilled maintenance and repair work on highways and related structures. The position may also provide occasional crew leadership in the absence of a lead worker. This role plays a key part in maintaining roadway safety and reliability across the region. A strong commitment to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative work environment is essential.

What to Expect

The typical schedule is four 10-hour shifts per week, Monday through Friday. This position requires the ability to work weekends and holidays in response to emergency call-outs and report to the assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours call. Employees must be available to work alternate, emergency, and rotational night shifts as needed. The role requires responding to emergencies in all weather conditions, 24/7, independently or as part of a team. Long hours, night work, and occasional standby or call-back assignments may be required.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Worker 2 will:

Perform asphalt and concrete pavement maintenance and repair, including applying concrete, asphalt, and synthetic materials.
Maintain and repair drainage systems, signage, guardrails, fencing, and impact attenuators to ensure roadway safety.
Manage vegetation and landscaping, including danger tree removal, pesticide application, and site restoration.
Haul materials such as rip rap, asphalt, sand, and gravel while tracking and reporting daily work activities and inventory.
Conduct snow and ice control operations and maintain roadways for safe and open travel year-round.
Respond to emergency situations by setting up traffic control, supporting incident response, and coordinating with external agencies.
Assist with unlawful dwelling cleanup and removal, ensuring safe handling of hazardous materials and coordination with partner agencies.
Lead and train crew members in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3 and perform maintenance and minor repairs on equipment and tools.

Qualifications

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

Highway Maintenance: Practical knowledge of highway maintenance practices, including pavement repair, drainage systems, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail installation, and debris removal. Ability to assess maintenance needs and perform repairs to highway structures, roadside features, and landscapes.
Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating and maintaining a variety of Class A, B, and C highway maintenance equipment, tools, and vehicles in accordance with WSDOT standards. Demonstrated ability to safely transport heavy equipment and materials between job sites.
Traffic Control & Work Zone: Working knowledge of traffic control practices following the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Ability to plan and implement safe work zones, including flagging, signage, and the use of cones/barrels.
Safety Awareness & Compliance: Strong understanding of workplace safety procedures and commitment to following safety policies, including confined space entry, fall protection, and hazardous material handling. Ability to participate in the creation and implementation of Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP) and attend regular safety training.
Technical & Administrative Proficiency: Skilled in the use of electronic systems for timekeeping, maintenance tracking, inventory management, and cost estimating (e.g., HATS, WZDB, TSMS). Proficient in standard computer applications, including Microsoft Office and email communication.
Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently in the field. Capable of leading a crew in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3, demonstrating sound decision-making and leadership skills.

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:

Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with N endorsement.
Ability to obtain a Washington State Pesticide Applicator's License within twelve (12) months of hire.
Ability to obtain and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification.
Ability to obtain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire.
Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts/stand-by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Ability to respond to the assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours callout.
A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
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 work at elevated heights above 25 feet over land or water.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

Snow and Ice Operations: Experience performing snow removal and anti-icing operations, including safely and efficiently operating plow trucks and applying de-icing materials to maintain safe roadway conditions during inclement weather.
Local Area Knowledge: Knowledge of the surrounding geographic area, including roadways, terrain, and environmental conditions that impact maintenance operations.
Maintenance Operations Expertise: Well-rounded experience across multiple highway maintenance disciplines, demonstrating versatility in performing a variety of roadway and infrastructure maintenance tasks.

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

High school graduation or GED

Important Notes

This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position is not eligible for remote work.
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
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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in 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

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 for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:
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 . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SWR-41144 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. That's 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 (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 (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 , 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

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

Select the option that best describes your experience performing highway or roadway maintenance activities.

Advanced - Independently performs a wide range of highway maintenance activities, including pavement repair, drainage work, erosion control, vegetation management, sign or guardrail installation, and debris removal.
Intermediate - Performs roadway maintenance activities with some guidance or in a limited scope.
Basic - Limited experience performing highway or roadway maintenance work.
None of the above

02

Briefly describe your experience performing highway or roadway maintenance activities and the types of work you completed. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".
03

Select the option that best describes your experience operating highway maintenance vehicles or equipment.

Advanced - Independently operates and maintains Class A, B, or C maintenance equipment and safely transports equipment or materials between job sites.
Intermediate - Operates maintenance equipment with some guidance or in limited applications.
Basic - Limited experience operating equipment or vehicles.
None of the above

04

Briefly describe the types of equipment or vehicles you have operated and the work activities they supported. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".
05

Select the option that best describes your experience performing traffic control or work zone operations.

Advanced - Independently implements traffic control in accordance with MUTCD standards, including flagging, signage placement, and work zone setup using cones or barrels.
Intermediate - Assists with traffic control or flagging activities with some guidance.
Basic - Limited experience with traffic control or work zone operations.
None of the above

06

Briefly describe your experience with traffic control or work zone setup, including any flagging responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".
07

Select the option that best describes your experience following workplace safety procedures.

Advanced - Consistently follows workplace safety procedures and participates in activities such as safety planning, hazard identification, or safety training.
Intermediate - Follows established safety procedures and participates in maintaining a safe work environment.
Basic - Limited experience with workplace safety procedures.
None of the above

08

Briefly describe your experience following workplace safety procedures or participating in safety-related activities. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".
09

Select the option that best describes your experience using electronic systems or computer applications to support maintenance operations.

Advanced - Regularly uses electronic systems and computer applications to support timekeeping, maintenance tracking, inventory management, reporting, or communication activities.
Intermediate - Uses computer applications or electronic systems for routine work activities with some guidance.
Basic - Limited experience using electronic systems or computer applications in a work environment.
None of the above

10

Briefly describe your experience using computer systems, software, or electronic tracking tools to support work activities. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".
11

Do you possess a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL)?

12

Briefly describe your Commercial Driver's License (CDL), including the class, endorsements, restrictions (if any), and expiration date. If you do not possess this license, type "N/A".
13

Do you currently possess a Washington State Pesticide Applicator's License?

14

Do you currently possess a valid First Aid/CPR Certification?

15

Do you currently possess a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card?

16

Are you able to work nights, weekends, holidays, and respond to emergency callouts or standby assignments on a 24-hour, 7-day basis?

17

Are you able to report in service to the assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours call or be willing to relocate to meet the required response time?

18

Do you have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles?

19

Are you able to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain?

20

Are you able to maneuver and transport materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds?

21

Are you able to work at elevated heights above 25 feet over land or water?

22

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)

23

If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question

About the Company

State of Washington

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