Maintenance Specialist 5

Maintenance Specialist 5

Salary

$86,562.00 - $100,459.00 Annually

Location

King County - Renton, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-12572e

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

09/28/2026

Closing Date

10/12/2026 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 dedicated leader to supervise, direct, and support a region-wide bridge maintenance crew responsible for maintaining and repairing bridges throughout the Northwest Region. This position plays a critical role in ensuring bridges remain safe, reliable, and available to the traveling public. The position provides leadership that supports effective maintenance operations while fostering a respectful, healthy, and inclusive work environment. Through this work, the position directly contributes to WSDOT's mission of providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options that strengthen communities and support economic vitality.

What to Expect

This position performs physically demanding bridge maintenance work in all weather conditions, during both daytime and nighttime hours, often near high-volume, high-speed traffic, marine environments, confined spaces, and elevated heights above 100 feet. Work includes navigating rough or uneven terrain, climbing, standing for extended periods, and maneuver or moving equipment weighing 50 pounds or more, with potential exposure to hazardous materials and other environmental hazards. The typical schedule consists of four 10-hour shifts, with required work on days, nights, weekends, and holidays; telework is not available. Frequent travel to bridge maintenance sites throughout the Northwest Region is required, along with occasional travel for training and meetings. Employees operate a variety of highway equipment, trucks, cranes, work boats, UBITs, power and hand tools, and other specialized equipment while using appropriate PPE.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this Bridge Maintenance specialist 5 will:

• Program, schedule, and supervise Region bridge preventative maintenance, inspections, repairs, and rehabilitation of bridges, tunnels, and other structures.
• Direct crews and prioritize bridge maintenance and repair work using Operations, Inspection, and Maintenance Manuals, including structural and non-structural elements such as concrete decks, expansion joints, bridge rails, hatches, catwalks, timber components, and other bridge elements.
• Direct fabrication of steel and aluminum components using proper tools and techniques; coordinate with various teams for specialized maintenance tasks.
• Conduct and oversee structure inspections in elevated and marine environments to determine the type and priority of work; prepare and maintain written and monthly bridge reports and communicate emergencies and current issues.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, standards, and operational requirements, including proper use of PPE, fall protection, confined space procedures, and safe handling of hazardous substances and objects; identify opportunities for safety improvements.
• Supervise, train, coach, and evaluate employees; provide ongoing performance feedback, support professional development, assist with hiring and disciplinary actions, and maintain required training records and certifications.
• Utilize and maintain maintenance, bridge engineering, payroll, and reporting information systems; ensure accurate and timely data entry, time and leave approvals, and related records.
• Oversee safe traffic control, equipment, and tool operations, including development of plans consistent with MUTCD and WSDOT Work Zone Traffic Control Guidelines; oversee operation of trucks, UBITs, mobile cranes, TMAs, and power, air, and hand tools, and investigate equipment-related incidents and implement corrective actions.

Qualifications

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

• Extensive Journey Level Experience: Extensive journey level of experience in related trade such as construction, steel fabrication, carpentry, electrician, concrete, mechanic or millwright.
• Mechanical: Significant knowledge of machines and tools, including their design uses repair and maintenance.
• Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
• Building and Construction: Knowledge and understanding of structural systems such as concrete, steel and wood which includes the application of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair bridges or other structures such as highways and buildings.
• Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of practical application of engineering science and technology this includes applying principles techniques procedures and the ability to inspect equipment structures or materials that identify the causes of errors or other problems or defects.
• Communication with Supervisors, Peers, Subordinates or People Outside the Organization: Providing information to supervisors, coworkers and subordinates. Communication with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public government and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person in writing or by telephone or email.
• Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment:
• Class A CDL, N tank endorsement without restrictions E for no manual transmission and dL for air brake restriction, or ability to get one within 6 months of employment.
• Running, maneuvering navigating or driving vehicles or mechanizing equipment such as forklifts, passenger vehicles or watercraft.
• 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 competencies, the following are also required:

• Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Licensure: Valid drivers license and the ability to operate state owned vehicles.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Experience developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Supervisory Experience: Proven experience leading and/or supervising crews, providing clear direction, and making sound decisions in stressful conditions
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County and additional 10% assignment pay.
• 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.
• 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 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 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 Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-12572e MS5 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 response that best describes your level of journey-level experience performing skilled work in a related trade, such as construction, steel fabrication, carpentry, electrical, concrete, mechanical, or millwright work.

• I have extensive journey-level experience performing complex work in a related trade; I independently perform troubleshoot and complete a broad range of skilled assignments and may serve as a lead or subject matter expert.
• I have substantial journey-level experience performing a broad range of skilled assignments in a related trade, including independently completing complex work and troubleshooting problems.
• I have journey-level experience performing skilled assignments in a related trade and independently completing routine to moderately complex work.
• I have developing experience performing skilled trade work but require direction or assistance for complex assignments.
• I have limited or no journey-level experience in a related skilled trade.

02

Select the response that best describes your experience using knowledge of machines and tools to perform maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, or adjustment activities.

• I independently diagnose complex mechanical problems, determine appropriate repair methods, and use a broad range of specialized machines and tools to complete repairs and maintenance.
• I diagnose and repair a variety of mechanical equipment using appropriate machines, tools, and established repair methods, including troubleshooting problems that require technical judgment.
• I perform routine mechanical maintenance and repairs using common machines and tools and can identify and address basic equipment problems.
• I assist with mechanical maintenance or repairs and use machines and tools under established procedures or direction.
• I have limited or no experience performing mechanical maintenance, repair, or troubleshooting.

03

Select the response that best describes your experience applying construction methods, materials, tools, and practices involving structural systems such as concrete, steel, or wood.

• I independently perform or oversee complex construction or repair activities involving multiple structural materials and methods and identify and resolve construction-related problems.
• I independently perform construction or repair activities involving structural materials such as concrete, steel, or wood and select appropriate methods, tools, and materials for the work.
• I perform a range of construction or repair activities involving structural materials using established methods, tools, and procedures.
• I assist with construction or repair activities involving structural materials under the direction of experienced personnel.
• I have limited or no experience performing construction or repair work involving structural systems.

04

Select the response that best describes your experience applying mathematics to skilled trade, construction, mechanical, or equipment-related work.

• I routinely apply mathematical concepts such as geometry, algebra, measurements, formulas, ratios, or calculations to complex work, including determining dimensions, quantities, tolerances, or material requirements.
• I regularly perform mathematical calculations involving measurements, dimensions, quantities, tolerances, or formulas to complete skilled trade, construction, or equipment-related work.
• I use basic arithmetic, measurements, fractions, decimals, ratios, and common formulas to complete routine work assignments.
• I perform basic calculations using established instructions, references, or tools and obtain assistance when calculations are more complex.
• I have limited or no experience applying mathematics to skilled trade, construction, mechanical, or equipment-related work.

05

Select the response that best describes your experience applying technical principles or procedures to inspect equipment, structures, or materials and identify errors, defects, or other problems.

• I independently conduct complex inspections, analyze technical conditions, determine likely causes of defects or failures, and recommend or implement corrective actions.
• I conduct inspections using established technical standards or procedures, identify defects or problems, drmine likely causes, and take appropriate corrective action.
• I perform routine inspections of equipment, structures, or materials and identify common defects or problems using established procedures.
• I assist with inspections and document, or report identified problems to experienced personnel for evaluation or correction.
• I have limited or no experience inspecting equipment, structures, or materials for defects or problems.

06

Select the response that best describes your experience communicating technical or operational information with supervisors, coworkers, subordinates, customers, the public, or other external parties.

• I routinely communicate complex or sensitive technical information to diverse internal and external audiences, adapting the information and communication method to the audience and situation.
• I regularly communicate technical or operational information with supervisors, coworkers, subordinates, customers, or external parties and respond to questions or concerns using appropriate verbal and written communication.
• I communicate routine work information, instructions, status updates, or problems to supervisors and coworkers and interact with customers or members of the public as needed.
• I primarily communicate work information within my immediate work group and escalate questions or issues to a supervisor when appropriate.
• I have limited or no experience communicating work-related information with others in a professional setting.

07

Select the response that best describes your experience operating vehicles, mechanized devices, or equipment such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, construction equipment, or watercraft.

• I routinely operate multiple types of vehicles or mechanized equipment independently in varied or complex work environments and safely maneuver equipment while performing work tasks.
• I independently operate multiple types of vehicles or mechanized equipment and routinely perform work requiring safe maneuvering, positioning, or operation.
• I regularly operate assigned vehicles or mechanized equipment to perform routine work activities and follow applicable operating and safety procedures.
• I have limited experience operating vehicles or mechanized equipment and have primarily operated equipment under direction or in controlled conditions.
• I have limited or no experience operating vehicles or mechanized equipment.

08

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)

09

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