Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training)

Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training)

Salary

$66,072.00 - $96,804.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-OR-32948

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

10/01/2026

Closing Date

10/14/2026 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 Transportation Engineer 2 to join the Olympic Region's Tumwater Design Office in Lacey, WA. In this role, you'll play a key part in delivering highway design projects from development through completion, serving as the primary engineer responsible for preparing design documentation, plans, specifications, and cost estimates. Your work will directly support the delivery of safe, high-quality transportation projects that serve communities throughout the region.

This position also provides an opportunity to share your technical expertise and help develop others. You'll provide technical guidance and training while directing the work of supporting designers in the development of plan sheets, specifications, and estimates. If you enjoy applying your engineering knowledge, collaborating with others, and seeing your work translate into transportation projects that make a difference, this could be a great opportunity to grow your career with WSDOT.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 2 will:

• Prepare and review design, documentation, contract plans, specifications, and cost estimates (PS&Es) for design projects.
• Understand and interpret written policies, engineering design manuals, construction plans, and engineering reports to prepare, interpret, and review designs, project delivery documentation, contract plans, specifications, cost estimates and schedules.
• Conduct a quality review of own work; analyze and incorporate review comments as appropriate.
• Review and incorporate appropriate plans and data from Planning, Soils, Hydraulics, Bridge, Traffic, and other support offices.
• Use computer aided design software to develop engineering designs and plans.
• Perform quality verifications on design submittals.
• Conduct technical reviews of engineering related elements for Architectural and Engineering agreements, supplements, and task orders.
• Perform quality reviews of other design team's plan, specifications, estimates, design calculations, and other support projects and documents within the office by checking completeness, accuracy, consistency, and adherence to WSDOT design standards.
• Coordinate with other WSDOT offices, consultants, outside agencies, and other stakeholders to clarify technical information, meet commitments, and obtain information.

Qualifications

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

• Foundational Engineering Technical Skills and Knowledge: Foundational knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, with the ability to apply engineering concepts to real-world transportation project scenarios.
• Technical Interpretation, Analysis, and Problem Solving: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret engineering plans, specifications, contract documents, manuals, and technical data; identify issues or discrepancies; and apply sound engineering judgment to support effective, practical solutions.
• Engineering Documentation and Records Management: Ability to accurately document engineering, inspection, survey, materials, or project support activities through reports, field notes, calculations, quantities, records, and other required documentation in accordance with established standards and procedures.
• Engineering Technology and Software: Ability to use, or learn to use, engineering-related software and digital tools to support design, analysis, documentation, inspection, data collection, and project delivery (e.g., CAD, databases, spreadsheets, and agency systems). Note: Foundational knowledge may be supported by formal classroom training In addition to the above, the following competencies and licenses are required at either level:
• Communication Skills: Skills to communicate information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, both virtually and in-person, using a variety of electronic media, including, but not limited to telephones, email, text, video conferencing, and computer conferencing.
• Project Skills: Proven skill to examine, develop and propose alternate solutions to complex elements of a project.
• Engineering Skills: Experience in reviewing engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards.
• Teamwork Skills: Experience in being able to effectively work both individually and within a diverse team environment.
• Work Prioritization: Experience in working independently and prioritize workload and handle multiple assignments.
• Software Proficiency: Proficient in operating Windows based computers and software, such as MS Office Suite, including Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook; and computer applications involving databases and computer aided engineering software.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Engineer-In-Training Certificate

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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 is a Transportation Engineer 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. The base salaries for each level are:
• Transportation Engineer 2: $72,900 - $96,804
• Transportation Engineer 1: $66,072 - $88,877
• 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 Transportation Engineer 2 #32948 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 response that best describes your experience applying civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles.

• Advanced - Independently apply engineering principles, methods, and procedures to analyze and develop solutions for transportation projects or engineering problems.
• Intermediate - Apply engineering principles and concepts to assigned transportation or engineering projects with general guidance from a more experienced engineer.
• Basic - Have foundational knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles gained through education, training, or limited practical experience.
• No Experience - I have no education, training, or experience applying engineering principles to transportation or engineering projects.

02

Please briefly describe your experience applying civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

03

Please select the response that best describes your experience interpreting and analyzing engineering plans, specifications, technical documents, or data.

• Advanced - Independently review and interpret complex engineering plans, specifications, contract documents, manuals, and technical data; identify discrepancies or technical issues; and develop or recommend practical solutions using sound engineering judgment.
• Intermediate - Review and interpret engineering plans, specifications, technical documents, or data; identify issues or discrepancies; and develop solutions with general guidance from a more experienced engineer.
• Basic - Have limited experience reviewing engineering plans, specifications, technical documents, or data and applying engineering concepts to identify or resolve straightforward issues.
• No Experience - I have no experience interpreting or analyzing engineering plans, specifications, technical documents, or data.

04

Please briefly describe your experience interpreting and analyzing engineering plans, specifications, technical documents, or data. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

05

Please select the response that best describes your experience preparing and maintaining engineering or project documentation.

• Advanced - Independently prepare and maintain accurate engineering documentation, including reports, calculations, field notes, quantities, project records, or other technical documentation, in accordance with established standards, procedures, and project requirements.
• Intermediate - Prepare and maintain engineering or project documentation, such as reports, calculations, field notes, quantities, or records, with general guidance and in accordance with established procedures.
• Basic - Have limited experience preparing or maintaining engineering, inspection, survey, materials, or project documentation through education, training, or practical experience.
• No Experience - I have no experience preparing or maintaining engineering or project documentation.

06

Please briefly describe your experience preparing and maintaining engineering or project documentation. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

07

Please select the response that best describes your experience using engineering-related software or digital tools.

• Advanced - Independently use multiple engineering-related software programs and digital tools to support design, analysis, documentation, data management, inspection, or project delivery, and adapt to new technology as needed.
• Intermediate - Regularly use engineering-related software or digital tools, such as CAD, spreadsheets, databases, or agency systems, to support assigned engineering or project activities.
• Basic - Have basic experience or formal training using engineering-related software or digital tools, such as CAD, spreadsheets, databases, or other technical applications.
• No Experience - I have no experience using engineering-related software or digital tools.

08

Please select the response that best describes your experience communicating technical information to a variety of audiences.

• Advanced - Independently communicate complex technical information clearly and professionally to both technical and non-technical audiences through written, verbal, virtual, and electronic communication methods.
• Intermediate - Communicate technical or project information to coworkers, project stakeholders, or the public through written, verbal, virtual, and electronic communication with general guidance as needed.
• Basic - Have experience communicating routine technical, project, or work-related information through written, verbal, or electronic communication.
• No Experience - I have no experience communicating technical or project-related information in a professional setting.

09

Please select the response that best describes your experience developing and evaluating alternative solutions to project-related issues.

• Advanced - Independently analyze complex project issues, develop multiple alternatives, evaluate potential impacts and feasibility, and recommend solutions that support project requirements, schedule, cost, quality, and safety.
• Intermediate - Analyze project issues, develop or evaluate alternative solutions, and make recommendations with general guidance from a more experienced engineer or project lead.
• Basic - Have limited experience evaluating options or contributing to solutions for engineering or project-related issues.
• No Experience - I have no experience developing or evaluating alternative solutions to engineering or project-related issues.

10

Please select the response that best describes your experience reviewing engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards.

• Advanced - Independently review engineering plans and specifications for compliance with applicable standards, specifications, design criteria, and project requirements; identify deficiencies; and recommend or coordinate appropriate corrections.
• Intermediate - Review engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards and requirements, identify deficiencies, and recommend corrections with general guidance.
• Basic - Have limited experience reviewing engineering plans, specifications, or technical documents for consistency with established standards or requirements.
• No Experience - I have no experience reviewing engineering plans or specifications for compliance with established standards.

11

Please briefly describe your experience reviewing engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

12

Are you certified as an Engineer-In-Training (EIT)?

• Yes
• No

13

Do you have a Professional Engineer (PE) License within the state of Washington?

• Yes
• No
• No, but I have the ability to obtain this within 6 months of hire.

14

Please indicate your highest level of completed education:

• High school diploma or GED
• Associate degree
• Bachelor's degree
• Master's degree or higher
• None of the above

15

Please list your degree and field of study, or type N/A.

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
• AASHTO
• "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