Transportation Engineer 3 - Field Instrumentation Leader

Transportation Engineer 3 - Field Instrumentation Leader

Salary

$78,912.00 - $106,104.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Tumwater, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-HQ-05584

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

06/22/2026

Closing Date

7/6/2026 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 Field Instrumentation Leader (TE3) to lead the statewide Geotechnical Field Instrumentation Unit based in Tumwater, WA. In this role, you will serve as the technical lead and working supervisor for a team responsible for collecting, managing, and delivering critical geotechnical instrumentation data that supports transportation projects across Washington State. This position combines technical expertise, leadership, and field operations management. You will oversee complex instrumentation systems used to monitor slopes, foundations, structures, and construction activities while supervising field staff and ensuring the unit remains equipped and ready to support statewide projects. Your work will directly contribute to the safety, reliability, and long-term performance of Washington's transportation infrastructure.

What to Expect

This position requires frequent statewide travel. Travel consists of three to five days per week throughout Washington State to project sites - including active construction zones, highway shoulders, and remote locations inaccessible to the public - to collect geotechnical and structure instrumentation data, with occasional overnight travel as project locations require.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Lead statewide geotechnical instrumentation activities supporting transportation design, construction monitoring, and long-term slope stability assessments.
• Travel throughout Washington State to collect, manage, and evaluate instrumentation data from active construction sites, transportation corridors, and remote project locations.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot specialized geotechnical instrumentation equipment used to monitor subsurface conditions and structural performance.
• Design, program, deploy, and manage telemetry-based remote data acquisition systems that support real-time monitoring and reporting.
• Develop and maintain instrumentation networks, datalogger programming, and web-based platforms that display geotechnical monitoring data.
• Analyze, validate, and prepare instrumentation data, reports, charts, and visualizations for use by geotechnical engineers and engineering geologists.
• Plan, assign, and oversee daily work activities for Field Instrumentation Unit staff while supporting employee development and technical growth.
• Provide technical leadership, training, and quality assurance to ensure compliance with established procedures, testing standards, and safety requirements.
• Coordinate statewide field operations, project schedules, and resource needs across multiple concurrent assignments.
• Perform specialty geotechnical testing, including Cross Hole Sonic Logging (CSL), downhole suspension logging, Standard Penetration Test (SPT) Analyzer testing, and Cone Penetration Testing (CPT).
• Conduct quality control reviews of specialty testing data and deliver results to engineers and geophysicists for interpretation.
• Manage equipment inventories, procurement activities, calibration schedules, and operational readiness for statewide field deployments.
• Support technical initiatives, process improvements, training efforts, and special projects that enhance the effectiveness of the statewide instrumentation program.

Qualifications

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

• Geotechnical Instrumentation: Knowledge of geotechnical instrumentation systems and the ability to operate, troubleshoot, maintain, and deploy instrumentation equipment in diverse field conditions.
• Telemetry and Data Acquisition Systems: Ability to design, program, deploy, and manage telemetry-based data acquisition systems and communication networks that support real-time monitoring and reporting.
• Specialty Field Testing: Ability to perform specialty geotechnical testing, including Cross Hole Sonic Logging (CSL), downhole suspension logging, Standard Penetration Test (SPT) Analyzer testing, and Cone Penetration Testing (CPT), including field setup, operation, and quality control.
• Leadership and Supervision: Ability to supervise staff, assign and prioritize work, provide technical coaching, monitor performance, and support employee development.
• Operational Planning: Ability to coordinate multiple projects, manage field operations, and ensure resources, equipment, and personnel are available to meet business needs.
• Equipment and Inventory Management: Ability to maintain equipment readiness, coordinate calibration and repairs, manage inventory, and support procurement activities.
• Communication: Ability to clearly communicate technical information, findings, and recommendations to engineers, project managers, contractors, and team members.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Geotechnical Engineering Knowledge: Knowledge of geotechnical engineering, geology, or related technical principles as applied to transportation infrastructure, slope stability, or foundation systems.
• Geophysical Testing Methods: Familiarity with downhole seismic testing methods, shear wave velocity testing, suspension logging, and Cone Penetration Testing operations.
• Data Management Systems: Familiarity with web-based geotechnical data display platforms, GIS tools, or geotechnical database management systems used to support engineering programs.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 2% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-05584 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

Geotechnical Instrumentation: Which statement best describes your experience working with geotechnical instrumentation systems?

• I independently design, deploy, troubleshoot, and maintain complex instrumentation systems supporting engineering projects.
• I regularly install, operate, and troubleshoot geotechnical instrumentation equipment.
• I have assisted with instrumentation installation, operation, or maintenance activities.
• I have limited exposure to geotechnical instrumentation systems.
• I have no experience.

02

Please describe your experience with geotechnical instrumentation systems, including the types of equipment you have used. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

03

Telemetry and Data Acquisition Systems: Which statement best describes your experience designing and managing telemetry-based monitoring systems?

• I independently design, program, deploy, and maintain telemetry and remote data acquisition systems.
• I regularly configure, operate, or troubleshoot telemetry systems.
• I have assisted with telemetry system setup or operation.
• I have limited exposure to telemetry systems.
• I have no experience.

04

Please describe your experience with telemetry systems, dataloggers, or remote data acquisition systems. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

05

Leadership and Supervision: Which statement best describes your experience leading or supervising staff?

• I directly supervise staff, conduct performance evaluations, assign work, and support employee development.
• I lead project teams or provide technical direction without formal supervisory responsibilities.
• I regularly coordinate work activities with team members.
• I have limited leadership experience.
• I have no leadership experience.

06

Please describe your experience leading teams, assigning work, coaching employees, or supervising staff. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

07

Please describe your experience performing Cross Hole Sonic Logging (CSL), downhole suspension logging, Standard Penetration Test (SPT) Analyzer testing, Cone Penetration Testing (CPT), or similar specialty geotechnical testing. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

08

Do you possess a valid drivers license and have the ability to operate state-owned vehicles?

• Yes
• No

09

Geotechnical Engineering Knowledge: Which statement best describes your familiarity with geotechnical engineering principles related to transportation infrastructure, slope stability, or foundation systems?

• Advanced knowledge and regular application.
• Working knowledge and occasional application.
• Basic familiarity.
• No experience.

10

Please describe your experience with geotechnical databases, GIS applications, web-based monitoring platforms, or similar data management systems. If you do not have this experience, please enter 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
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "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