Project Inspector (TE2) | Two Positions

Project Inspector (TE2) | Two Positions

Salary

$75,045.00 - $100,951.00 Annually

Location

King County - Seattle Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-13341m

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

05/14/2026

Closing Date

5/28/2026 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 two Project Inspectors to ensure highway construction projects meet contract plans, specifications, and environmental permit requirements while supporting the delivery of safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation systems. Working with minimal supervision, these positions perform field inspections, conduct material testing, and documents construction activities to verify quality, compliance, and adherence to established standards. These roles are responsible for maintaining accurate field records, preparing reports, initiating payment documentation, capturing project progress, and providing contract clarification to contractors. These positions inspect a wide range of construction elements, including asphalt and concrete roadways, sidewalks, stormwater systems, electrical installations, structures, landscaping, and utilities, ensuring proper execution across all project components. Strong candidates will possess knowledge of construction inspection practices, attention to detail, technical documentation skills, understanding of materials and testing procedures, ability to interpret plans and specifications, and strong communication and problem-solving abilities in dynamic field environments.

What to Expect

These positions will be required to work outdoors in active construction environments, including forested areas, during both daytime and nighttime shifts. Conditions may involve inclement weather, exposure to exhaust, high-speed traffic, steep or uneven terrain, and proximity to heavy construction equipment. Some assignments may require working under live traffic conditions on freeways, interstates, or highways.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, the Project Inspector will:

• Verify contract compliance by ensuring and documenting that projects are constructed in accordance with plans, specifications, permits, and commitments, with minimal supervision.
• Read, interpret and understand contract plans, Specifications, and estimates to support inspection and documentation activities.
• Apply knowledge of construction and engineering procedures and practices, research methods, data collection, and communication and correspondence practices while performing on-site inspection.
• Document and report on Contractor compliance with Construction Plans, Special Provisions, and WSDOT Standard Specifications.
• Provide clarification of contract requirements when needed and communicate effectively to the Contractor and WSDOT staff when construction work does not comply with contract documents.
• Record daily inspection activities through photographs and Inspector Daily Reports (IDRs).
• Prepare Field Note Records (FNRs) and pay notes using Unifier program in accordance with current office procedures to initiate contractor payments for completed work.
• Conduct materials testing and verifying that all materials are approved prior to permanent installation and incorporation into the project.
• Operate a WSDOT vehicle to travel and from inspection sites and transport materials, tools and equipment.

Qualifications

To be considered for these opportunities, the following competencies are required:

• Foundational Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, transportation, or related engineering principles, with experience in construction, inspection, or materials testing.

• Construction and Engineering Technical Knowledge

• Ability to read, interpret, understand, and review contract plans, specifications, and estimates.

• Knowledge and proficiency with computer technology, including Microsoft Office, ability to research online information, and use document control systems.

• Communication Proficiency:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for interacting with contractors, designers, other team members, support offices, and the public.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and professionally with coworkers, contractors, partner agencies, and the public in person, by phone, and in writing.

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

• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

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

• A valid drivers license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to adjust work schedule to align with the contractor schedules, including nights and irregular shifts.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to obtain a General Inspector certification within six (6) months of hire.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Construction Inspection: Experience inspecting or designing Civil or Transportation projects, including experience with construction material testing.
• Highway Traffic Control: Experience working for long periods of time on major highways with complex traffic control set-ups.
• Environmental and Fish Passage Project: Experience inspecting fish passage projects with environmentally sensitive project locations.
• WSDOT Construction Expertise: Knowledge and experience with construction inspection procedures for WSDOT projects including experience with Design-Build project inspection.
• Professional Engineering Foundations: Certification in construction materials testing and/or Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification.

Important Notes

• This recruitment will be used to fill up to two vacancies and may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• These positions offer flexible/hybrid remote work options. Regular travel to and from construction sites to perform inspection and/or materials testing will be required.
• These positions may require work on weekends, holidays, or even extended hours.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
• 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, 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 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 toState Benefitsfor 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. NOTE: This information may 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-NWR-13341m 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 select the option that best describes your knowledge of engineering principles and construction practices.

• Applies strong engineering knowledge across multiple disciplines (civil, structural, geotechnical, transportation) to support inspection, materials testing, and construction oversight.
• Applies foundational engineering knowledge to support construction, inspection, or materials testing activities.
• Has basic understanding of engineering principles with limited application.
• Limited or no experience with engineering or construction practices.

02

Please describe in detail your knowledge of engineering principles and construction practices. Otherwise put N/A

03

Please select the option that best describes your ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and estimates.

• Expertly reads, interprets, and reviews complex plans, specifications, and estimates, and uses them to guide inspection and decision-making.
• Regularly reads and interprets plans and specifications to support project work.
• Has limited experience reviewing plans or specifications.
• Limited or no experience interpreting plans or specifications.

04

Do you possess a valid drivers license with the ability to operate state owned vehicles?

• Yes
• No

05

Are you able and willing to work adjusted schedules, including working nights, to align with contractor activities?

• Yes
• No

06

Are you able and willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, and work in confined spaces?

• Yes
• No

07

Please select the option that best describes your experience in inspection or design working on civil or transportation projects, including materials testing.

• Extensive experience inspecting or designing transportation or civil projects, including performing and interpreting materials testing.
• Regular experience supporting inspection or design activities and conducting materials testing.
• Limited experience assisting with inspection, design, or testing activities.
• Limited or no experience in construction inspection or design.

08

Please describe in detail your experience in inspection or design working on civil or transportation projects, including materials testing. Otherwise put N/A

09

Please select the option that best describes your experience working on major highways with complex traffic control setups.

• Extensive experience working in complex traffic control environments on major highways for extended periods.
• Regular experience working in traffic control zones on active roadways.
• Limited experience working around traffic control setups.
• Limited or no experience working in highway traffic control environments.

10

Please describe in detail your experience working on major highways with complex traffic control setups. Otherwise put N/A

11

Please select the option that best describes your experience inspecting fish passage or environmentally sensitive projects.

• Extensive experience inspecting environmentally sensitive or fish passage projects with regulatory considerations.
• Some experience supporting or participating in environmental or fish passage projects.
• Limited exposure to environmentally sensitive project work.
• Limited or no experience in environmental or fish passage projects.

12

Please describe in detail your experience inspecting fish passage or environmentally sensitive projects. Otherwise put N/A

13

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)

14

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