Highway Maintenance Worker 2

Highway Maintenance Worker 2

Salary

$58,392.00 - $71,136.00 Annually

Location

Yakima County - Union Gap, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-SCR-51371

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

South Central Region

Opening Date

08/07/2026

Closing Date

8/23/2026 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 manages the worlds longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a Highway Maintenance Worker 2 to join the Traffic Control Crew. In this role, you will support safe and efficient travel throughout the South Central Region. Working as part of a dedicated maintenance crew, this position plays a critical role in protecting the traveling public, fellow employees, and work zones by implementing effective traffic control during roadway maintenance and improvement activities. Through reliable field operations and a strong commitment to safety, this role helps ensure the uninterrupted movement of people, goods, and services across Washingtons transportation system. Join WSDOT and make a meaningful impact by supporting a safe, dependable transportation network that serves communities statewide.

What to Expect

This position works primarily outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind, with exposure to traffic, construction equipment, and roadway hazards. Performs physically demanding work, including setting up traffic control devices, flagging traffic, operating equipment, and moving materials while following safety procedures and wearing required PPE. Typically works Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week, on four 10-hour shifts; however, schedules may include nights, weekends, holidays, standby, call-back, and emergency response assignments. Must be available to report to the assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours call to support WSDOT operations.

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

• Establish, implement, and maintain traffic control operations for South Central Region (SCR) work activities in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), agency specifications, and approved traffic control plans.
• Set up, remove, and maintain temporary traffic control (TTC) zones for lane closures, road closures, detours, mobile operations, short-duration operations, and flagging activities on two-lane and multi-lane roadways.
• Deploy, operate, and maintain traffic control devices and equipment, including cones, drums, barricades, Road Warrior devices, attenuator trucks, and portable changeable message signs (PCMS).
• Perform moving and stationary traffic control operations using attenuator/buffer vehicles to protect work crews during maintenance, construction, and roadway incident activities.
• Respond to roadway incidents and emergencies by establishing safe traffic control measures, implementing emergency lane closures and detours, and coordinating with maintenance crews, emergency responders, law enforcement, and other partners.
• Perform snow and ice control operations in accordance with the WSDOT Maintenance Manual, Winter Operations Plan, and established Levels of Service by operating snowplow and deicing vehicles to maintain safe highway conditions.
• Apply solid and liquid deicing and anti-icing materials, perform material blending operations, and maintain stockpile sites, storage areas, and equipment in accordance with WSDOT safety, environmental, and operational standards.
• Monitor roadway, weather, and pavement conditions; adjust operations as needed; and respond to emergency, on-call, and after-hours events to support public safety and system mobility.

Qualifications

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

• Highway and Roadway Maintenance Expertise: Demonstrated experience performing routine and emergency maintenance on highways, roadways, and related infrastructure 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.

• Licensing & Certification:

• Possession of a valid Class B Commercial Drivers License (CDL) with N endorsement and without airbrakes restriction.

• Washington State Flagging Card (or ability to obtain within two (2) months of appointment).

• First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain within six (6) months of appointment).

• Valid CDL Medical card.

• Heavy Equipment Operations: Skilled in operating and maintaining heavy equipment (e.g. front-end loaders, tractor mowers, sweepers, flushers, truck-mounted attenuators, backhoe, Vactor, 26,000 -56,000 GVW Dump truck with snowplow and chemical deicer attachments) Licensing & Certification:

• 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: Ability to use electronic systems for timekeeping, maintenance tracking, inventory management, and cost estimating. Proficient in standard computer applications including Microsoft Office and email communication.

• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

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

• 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 nights, weekends, holidays, to respond to unscheduled work, call-outs, or emergencies.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, individually or as part of a team.
• Ability to report in service to assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours call.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Highway Maintenance Experience: Demonstrated experience performing maintenance activities in a related field, including roadway, transportation, or infrastructure maintenance.
• Traffic Control Knowledge: Ability to perform traffic control activities in compliance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) standards and applicable roadway safety requirements.
• Maintenance Operations Knowledge: Ability to interpret, comprehend, and implement the WSDOT Maintenance Manual in daily maintenance operations.
• Winter Operations Knowledge: Ability to interpret and apply the WSDOT Snow and Ice Plan procedures to support safe and effective winter maintenance operations.
• Traffic Control Standards & Compliance: Ability to interpret and apply M54-44 guidelines and MUTCD standards related to traffic control, work zones, and roadway safety.
• Technical Skill Assessment: Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and experience will be evaluated to determine appropriate placement at the Highway Maintenance Worker 1 or Highway Maintenance Worker 2 level.

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.
• This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA). 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 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.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

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

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

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SCR-51371 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/roadway maintenance experience, including the types of equipment, vehicles, and tools you have operated. If you do not have this experience, please enter NA.

02

What type of Drivers License do you currently possess?

• Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Class A
• Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Class B
• Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Learners Permit
• Personal Drivers License (Standard Drivers License)
• None of the above

03

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

04

Please select all the following you currently possess:

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

05

Do you have the ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain?

06

Do you have the ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds in a safe manner?

07

Are you able and willing to work nights, weekends, holidays, to respond to unscheduled work, call-outs, or emergencies?

08

Do you have the ability to report in service to assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours call, or willing to relocate to meet the response time?

09

Which best describes your experience operating heavy equipment used for maintenance activities?

• I routinely operate and maintain multiple types of heavy equipment independently, including equipment such as loaders, dump trucks, snowplows, tractor mowers, sweepers, flushers, backhoes, Vactors, or truck-mounted attenuators, to perform complex maintenance operations.
• I regularly operate several types of heavy equipment used for roadway, construction, transportation, or similar maintenance activities with minimal supervision.
• I have experience operating one or more types of heavy equipment to support assigned maintenance or construction activities under supervision.
• I have received training or limited exposure to operating heavy equipment but have limited independent operating experience.
• I have no experience operating heavy equipment.

10

Which best describes your experience performing routine and emergency maintenance activities on highways, roadways, or related infrastructure?

• I independently perform a wide range of routine and emergency maintenance activities, assess maintenance needs, and complete repairs involving roadway surfaces, drainage systems, roadside features, and transportation infrastructure.
• I regularly perform multiple highway maintenance activities, including roadway repairs, drainage maintenance, vegetation management, and roadside repairs with limited supervision.
• I have experience performing basic maintenance tasks related to roads, infrastructure, or outdoor facilities under supervision.
• I have limited experience assisting with maintenance activities but have not independently performed roadway or infrastructure repairs.
• I have no experience performing maintenance activities in a related field.

11

Which best describes your experience applying workplace safety practices in a maintenance or field environment?

• I consistently apply safety procedures, participate in safety planning activities such as Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP), and have experience following requirements related to traffic control, confined space entry, fall protection, and hazardous materials.
• I regularly follow established safety procedures, participate in safety training, and identify potential hazards before beginning work.
• I have experience following basic workplace safety procedures and using required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• I have limited experience with formal safety procedures or safety training.
• I have no experience applying workplace safety practices.

12

Which best describes your experience using electronic systems and computer applications to support work activities?

• I regularly use electronic systems for timekeeping, maintenance tracking, inventory management, cost estimating, and Microsoft Office applications to document and support operations.
• I frequently use computer applications and electronic systems to complete work documentation, reports, scheduling, or tracking activities.
• I have basic experience using computers, email, and electronic systems for work-related tasks.
• I have limited experience using computer applications or electronic work systems.
• I have no experience using computer applications or electronic systems.

13

Which best describes your experience performing traffic control activities?

• I independently establish, implement, and maintain traffic control operations in accordance with MUTCD standards, agency requirements, and approved traffic control plans.
• I regularly perform traffic control activities, including flagging, lane closures, work zone setup, and use of traffic control devices while following MUTCD standards.
• I have assisted with traffic control activities under the direction of experienced personnel.
• I have received traffic control training but have limited field experience applying traffic control procedures.
• I have no experience performing traffic control activities.

14

Which best describes your experience interpreting and applying maintenance procedures, including winter operations?

• I independently interpret and apply maintenance manuals, snow and ice control procedures, and operational plans to make decisions during roadway maintenance activities.
• I have experience following established maintenance procedures, including snow and ice control operations and adjusting work activities based on conditions.
• I have assisted with maintenance activities where procedures and operational guidance were provided by others.
• I have limited knowledge of maintenance procedures or winter operations.
• I have no experience applying maintenance procedures or winter operations practices.

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