Highway Maintenance Worker 3 - Plant Establishment

Highway Maintenance Worker 3 - Plant Establishment

Salary

$67,808.00 - $82,618.00 Annually

Location

Snohomish County - Everett, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-12584e

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

06/30/2026

Closing Date

7/14/2026 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 3 to help ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and commerce throughout the transportation system. Under the direction of a Highway Maintenance Worker 4 and/or supervisor, this position leads maintenance crews in the repair and upkeep of highways and highway structures within an assigned area. This role performs a variety of highly skilled highway maintenance activities and operates a wide range of specialized equipment and tools. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting WSDOT's mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options for Washington's communities and businesses.

What to Expect

The typical schedule for this position is four 10-hour shifts per week (40 hours total; Mon. - Thurs; 6:00 am - 4:30 pm). Weekend, holiday, alternate shift, and emergency response work may be required to support operational needs and respond to unscheduled events. Employees must be able to report to their assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call. This position responds to emergencies in all weather conditions, at any time of day or night, working independently or as part of a team. Overtime and work beyond 40 hours per week may be required based on operational demands.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Worker 3 will:

• Lead a region-wide mitigation crew in performing landscape, roadside, and environmental restoration activities to support safe and sustainable transportation corridors.
• Perform vegetation management, planting, irrigation, erosion control, habitat restoration, pesticide application, and other landscape maintenance activities using industry best practices.
• Plan, assign, and oversee daily work activities, equipment use, and job site operations while promoting safe work practices and minimizing impacts to the traveling public.
• Train, mentor, and support crew members in the safe and efficient operation of equipment, tools, and maintenance procedures, and serve as acting supervisor when assigned.
• Operate and maintain a variety of commercial vehicles, heavy equipment, power tools, and specialized machinery to perform roadway, drainage, vegetation, and infrastructure maintenance.
• Design, implement, and conduct traffic control operations, including lane closures, detours, and road or bridge closures, in accordance with department and industry standards.
• Inspect, maintain, and repair roadway features, signs, fences, guardrail systems, drainage facilities, and related transportation assets.
• Support winter operations, emergency response activities, right-of-way cleanup efforts, contractor oversight, permit documentation, and other maintenance assignments as needed.

Qualifications

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

Highway Maintenance Operations:

• Skills, knowledge, and experience performing highway maintenance and operations activities on state highways, including roadway, drainage, vegetation, sign, and right-of-way maintenance in active traffic environments.

Traffic Control & Work Zone Safety:

• Ability to establish, implement, and lead traffic control operations in accordance with MUTCD and departmental standards.

Equipment Operation & Physical Abilities:

• Experience operating highway maintenance equipment and commercial vehicles, performing physically demanding work in all weather conditions.

Communication, Customer Service & Coordination:

• Skills communicating effectively with crews, supervisors, internal partners, external agencies, and the public; providing professional customer service; and coordinating work activities and emergency responses.

Work Documentation & Technology:

• Ability and experience maintaining accurate records, tracking inventory and maintenance activities, and using computerized systems and mobile devices to complete reports and documentation.

Growth Mindset & Service-Oriented:

• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Takes action to meet the needs of others.

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

• Washington State Class A Commercial Driver's License with N endorsement, no air brake restrictions, and no transmission restrictions.
• Valid Traffic Control/Flagging card or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Washington State Pesticide Applicator's License with Aquatic endorsement or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to operate Class A, B, and/or C equipment w/ current technology in highway maintenance operations.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts/stand-by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Ability to transport, move, and manipulate various types of equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.
• Ability to respond to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours callout.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work at elevated heights, above 25 feet over land or water.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

Supervisory & Decision-Making Leadership:

• Experience leading and/or supervising highway maintenance crews, providing clear direction, coordinating work activities, and exercising sound judgment and decision-making in dynamic and high-stress operational and emergency environments.

Advanced Equipment Operation & Technical Knowledge:

• Experience operating, transporting, and maintaining TEF highway maintenance equipment, including cranes, and commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or greater.

Incident, Emergency & Traffic Control Operations:

• Experience serving as a traffic control lead during emergency and planned operations.

Environmental, Utility & System Certifications:

• Possession of specialized certifications: Backflow Prevention Tester Certification and Crane Certification.

Local Area & Operational Familiarity:

• Knowledge of the surrounding geographic area, roadway network, traffic patterns, and maintenance features to support efficient routing, emergency response, and coordination with local partners.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 2% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026.
• The salary listed includes an additional 10% Group C Assignment Pay.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• Work is performed primarily outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, and other inclement weather, during both daytime and nighttime hours. Duties require traversing steep, rough, and uneven terrain; working at heights above 25 feet over land or water; and operating in high-risk environments such as active traffic corridors and confined spaces. Employees may be exposed to hazards associated with roadway maintenance operations, including sharp objects, bloodborne pathogens, hazardous materials, and hot asphalt with temperatures reaching up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Safety is expected to remain a top priority in all aspects of the 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 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-NWR-12584e 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

Select the option that best describes your experience performing plant establishment and landscaping activities.

• Advanced - Independently performs plant establishment and landscaping activities, including landscape installation, vegetation management, planting, soil preparation, irrigation, pruning, restoration, and maintenance of landscaped areas within transportation or public environments.
• Intermediate - Performs plant establishment and landscaping activities with limited supervision, including assisting with planting, landscape maintenance, vegetation management, irrigation systems, and restoration activities.
• Basic - Limited experience performing plant establishment and landscaping activities.
• None of the above

02

Briefly describe your experience performing plant establishment and landscaping activities, including the types of work performed and your level of responsibility. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

03

Select the option that best describes your experience establishing and implementing traffic control operations.

• Advanced - Independently establishes, implements, and leads traffic control operations in accordance with MUTCD standards and workplace safety requirements.
• Intermediate - Performs traffic control and flagging duties and assists with work zone setup and implementation.
• Basic - Limited experience with traffic control or work zone operations.
• None of the above

04

Briefly describe your experience with traffic control, flagging, work zone setup, or implementing MUTCD-compliant traffic control operations. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

05

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

• Advanced - Independently operates and maintains a variety of highway maintenance equipment and commercial vehicles, including Class A, B, and/or C equipment used in highway maintenance operations.
• Intermediate - Operates maintenance equipment and vehicles with some guidance or within a limited scope of responsibility.
• Basic - Limited experience operating maintenance equipment or commercial vehicles.
• None of the above

06

Briefly describe the types of highway maintenance equipment and commercial vehicles you have operated and maintained. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

07

Do you possess a Class A Commercial Drivers License (CDL)?

• Yes
• No

08

Briefly describe your CDL, including endorsements, restrictions (if any), issuing state, and expiration date. If you do not possess this license, type "N/A".

09

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

• Yes
• No

10

Do you currently possess a Washington State Pesticide Applicator's License with an Aquatic endorsement?

• Yes
• No

11

Are you able to operate Class A, B, and/or C equipment utilizing current technology in highway maintenance operations?

• Yes
• No

12

Are you able to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts and standby assignments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?

• Yes
• No

13

Are you able to report to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours callout, or willing to relocate to meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No

14

Are you able to transport, move, and manipulate various types of equipment weighing 50 pounds or more?

• Yes
• No

15

Are you able to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work at elevated heights above 25 feet over land or water?

• Yes
• No

16

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)

17

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