Highway Maintenance Worker 3

Highway Maintenance Worker 3

Salary

$62,880.00 - $76,608.00 Annually

Location

Benton County - Prosser, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-SCR-50732

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

South Central Region

Opening Date

07/15/2026

Closing Date

7/26/2026 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 seeking a skilled and motivated Highway Maintenance Worker 3 to join our team in Prosser, WA! As a key member of our maintenance organization, you will play a critical role in keeping Washington's highways safe, reliable, and accessible for the traveling public. This lead-level position provides hands-on leadership for a district, area, or section-wide crew while performing a variety of skilled highway maintenance activities that support the safe and efficient movement of people, goods, and services across the state.

Under the direction of a Highway Maintenance Supervisor and Maintenance Superintendent, you will oversee daily maintenance activities, operate a variety of heavy highway equipment, and maintain state highways, roadsides, infrastructure, and rights of way. You will help coordinate resources, support crew safety, and ensure work is completed effectively, efficiently, and in alignment with WSDOT standards. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day by protecting public safety, preserving vital transportation infrastructure, and ensuring Washington's highways remain open and dependable in all conditions.

What to Expect

Work is generally performed Monday-Thursday on four 10-hour shifts; however, weekends, holidays, night work, and extended hours may be required for emergency response and non-scheduled callouts. The position requires the ability to report to the duty station within 60 minutes, respond in all weather conditions, and participate in rotational night, standby, and call-back assignments.

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

• Lead, assist, and train junior personnel in performing roadway/roadside maintenance including, including, but not limited to: building maintenance, shoulder maintenance, asphalt patching operations, ditching, guardrail repair, bridge repair, sign repair, traffic control, culvert and cross drain maintenance, sweeping operations, pesticide applications, and snow and ice operations.
• Lead a crew of 5-10 employees but also covers for other leads in their absence.
• Operates trucks with sander equipment to remove snow and ice from roadway.
• Report situations needing attention to supervisors.
• Schedule daily work and assist supervisors with monthly schedule.
• Assist supervisors with inventory of maintenance items, including ordering and tracking materials.
• Audit subordinates daily time entries in DOTtime.
• Assist the supervisors in evaluating employees.

Qualifications

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

• Highway and Roadway Maintenance Expertise: Demonstrated advanced knowledge and 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.
• 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)
• Leadership in Adverse Conditions: Proven ability to supervise personnel engaged in snow and ice removal operations, ensuring safe and effective performance in adverse weather conditions during both day and nighttime hours.
• Licensing & Certification: Possession of a valid Class A Commercial Drivers License (CDL) with N endorsement without airbrakes restriction. Valid CDL Medical card. Washington State Flagging Card (or ability to obtain within six (6) months of appointment). First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain within six (6) months of appointment). Valid Public Pesticide Applicator License ( or ability to obtain within six (6) months of appointment).
• 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 PreActivity 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: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

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

• 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 assigned duty station with 60 minutes of an afterhours callout.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work elevated heights, above 25 feet over land or water.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Winter Operations & Crew Leadership: Demonstrated knowledge of snow and ice control operations, including the ability to interpret and implement winter maintenance plans, coordinate resources, and provide direction to a crew during winter weather events to support safe and efficient highway operations.
• Traffic Control & Roadway Safety: Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply work zone traffic control standards, roadway safety practices, and applicable guidelines, including the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), to establish and maintain safe work environments for employees and the traveling public.
• Heavy Equipment Operation & Maintenance Skills: Demonstrated ability to safely operate a variety of highway maintenance equipment and tools to perform roadway, roadside, and infrastructure maintenance activities. Ability to select and effectively use appropriate equipment to complete assigned work safely, efficiently, and in accordance with operational requirements.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.
• Work is performed primarily outdoors in all weather conditions and often near moving traffic and heavy equipment, requiring heightened situational awareness and strict adherence to safety practices. The role involves physically demanding tasks, including deploying traffic control devices, flagging, and operating maintenance vehicles and equipment, with extended periods of standing and walking. Employees must wear appropriate PPE at all times.
• 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 (FMCSA). 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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 amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov Please be sure to reference Highway Maintenance Worker 3 #50732 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

Which statement best describes your experience performing highway, roadway, and infrastructure maintenance activities?

• I have extensive experience independently performing and leading complex highway maintenance activities, including pavement repair, drainage systems, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail installation, debris removal, and repairs to roadway infrastructure. I am able to assess maintenance needs and determine appropriate methods to complete work safely and efficiently.
• I have experience performing a variety of highway or roadway maintenance activities, including repairs, inspections, and upkeep of roadway surfaces, drainage systems, roadside features, or related infrastructure.
• I have assisted with roadway, construction, landscaping, or maintenance activities and have experience using tools and equipment to complete assigned tasks.
• I have limited exposure to highway or roadway maintenance activities through training, education, or related work experience.
• I do not have this experience.

02

Please briefly describe your experience performing highway, roadway, and infrastructure maintenance activities. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

03

Which statement best describes your experience operating heavy equipment used for highway maintenance, construction, or similar operations?

• I have extensive experience safely operating and performing basic maintenance on multiple types of heavy equipment, such as loaders, backhoes, dump trucks, tractor mowers, sweepers, flushers, truck-mounted attenuators, Vactor equipment, or snow and ice control equipment. I can select appropriate equipment and adapt operations to changing conditions.
• I have experience operating several types of heavy equipment to perform maintenance, construction, landscaping, or related work activities.
• I have experience operating some equipment or vehicles but have limited experience with heavy highway maintenance equipment.
• I have received training or limited exposure to heavy equipment operation but have not independently operated equipment in a work environment.
• I do not have this experience.

04

Which statement best describes your experience leading or directing crews during snow and ice operations or emergency response activities?

• I have independently supervised or led crews during snow and ice operations or emergency response activities, including assigning work, monitoring safety, adjusting operations based on changing conditions, and ensuring effective completion of work during day or nighttime operations.
• I have served as a lead worker or provided direction to others during maintenance operations, including winter weather or emergency response activities.
• I have participated as a crew member during snow and ice operations or emergency maintenance activities.
• I have limited experience with winter operations or emergency maintenance activities.
• I do not have this experience.

05

Which statement best describes your experience leading or supporting snow and ice control operations during winter weather events?

• I have extensive experience leading snow and ice control operations, including interpreting and implementing winter maintenance plans, assigning work, coordinating equipment and resources, adjusting operations based on changing weather and roadway conditions, and ensuring crew safety during day or nighttime operations.
• I have experience participating in snow and ice control operations and have provided direction, training, or support to other employees during winter maintenance activities.
• I have experience performing snow and ice control activities as part of a maintenance crew, including operating equipment or applying winter maintenance procedures.
• I have limited exposure to winter operations through training, observation, or related work experience.
• I do not have this experience.

06

Which statement best describes your experience applying work zone traffic control standards and roadway safety practices?

• I have extensive experience establishing, reviewing, or directing work zone traffic control activities, interpreting the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and applicable guidelines, and ensuring safe work areas for employees and the traveling public.
• I have experience setting up, maintaining, or working within traffic control zones and applying MUTCD or other roadway safety requirements.
• I have experience working in environments where traffic control measures and roadway safety practices were required.
• I have limited knowledge or exposure to work zone traffic control practices.
• I do not have this experience.

07

Which statement best describes your experience operating and maintaining highway maintenance equipment and tools?

• I have extensive experience safely operating, inspecting, and performing routine maintenance on a wide variety of highway maintenance equipment and can independently determine the appropriate equipment and methods needed to complete complex maintenance activities.
• I have experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment and tools to perform roadway, roadside, construction, or maintenance activities while following safety procedures and operational requirements.
• I have experience operating some equipment or tools in a work environment but have limited experience with highway maintenance equipment.
• I have received training or limited exposure to equipment operation but have not independently operated equipment as part of regular job duties.
• I do not have this experience.

08

Which of the following valid licenses or certifications do you currently possess? (Select all that apply.)

• Washington State Flagging Card
• First Aid Certification
• Public Pesticide Applicator License
• I do not currently possess these licenses/certifications but can obtain required certifications within the timeframe specified
• I do not possess and cannot obtain these requirements

09

What type of driver's license do you currently possess?

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B
• Standard Driver's License
• None of the above

10

Please list any and all endorsements on your drivers license. If your drivers license does not have any endorsements, please type "N/A."

11

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

12

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