Transportation Engineer 3 (In-Training) | Multiple Positions

Transportation Engineer 3 (In-Training) | Multiple Positions

Salary

$68,014.00 - $111,409.00 Annually

Location

King County - Shoreline, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-13485m

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

06/25/2026

Closing Date

7/8/2026 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 multiple motivated and detail-oriented Transportation Engineer 3 In-Training professionals to join our team in Shoreline, WA. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering transportation improvements that enhance safety, mobility, and reliability for communities across Washington. You will develop plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E) for signing, traffic signal and illumination systems, power supply systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), and low-cost enhancement (Q-Design) projects that help keep the state's transportation network operating efficiently.

As a member of a collaborative and innovative team, you will support WSDOT's mission by ensuring engineering projects are developed in accordance with agency standards, policies, and best practices while maintaining a strong commitment to quality, safety, and stewardship. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to Washington's long-term transportation resilience while helping foster a professional workplace built on respect, collaboration, accountability, and opportunities for growth and development.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 3 will:

• Review and prepare Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for highway illumination, traffic signals, ITS, and signing systems on Design-Build contracts.
• Review traffic design submittals and provide clear, technically sound comments.
• Track the progress of active traffic work orders and coordinate project prioritization with traffic managers, the Signal and Maintenance Superintendent, and Signal Maintenance Supervisors.
• Prioritize proposed electrical and ITS projects.
• Serve as the Traffic Design Section representative on Design-Build task force, coordination, and guidance teams. Provide design oversight and technical guidance.
• Prepare design responses to contractor submittals and develop change orders.
• Apply independent engineering judgment and established design techniques to develop standard and complex traffic systems.

Qualifications

This is a Transportation Engineer 3 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.

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

• Advanced Engineering knowledge and application: Demonstrates advanced knowledge of civil engineering principles and applies high-level engineering practices to transportation projects, designs, and analyses.
• Advanced Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Applies a strong understanding of engineering methods, standards and analytical approaches to support technical decision making and operational effectiveness.
• Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Experience reading, interpreting, and analyzing guidance documents such as the Manual on Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the AASHTO Green Book, and the WSDOT Design Manual. Ability to apply and translate this guidance into real world solutions including development of projects and recommendations about traffic operations.
• Leadership Skills: Strong communicator with proven ability to lead and coach subordinate staff, including evaluating performance, identifying training needs, and resolving personnel issues.
• Engineering Knowledge and Application: Demonstrates initiative in selecting resources and interpreting design guidance. Applies sound engineering judgment to organize findings and recommend actions based on design guidelines and supporting evidence.
• Data Analysis and Report Writing: Strong analytical skills with a solid understanding of data collection, analysis, and reporting practices. Ability to conduct research and interpret technical literature related to transportation.
• Communication and Interpersonal Proficiency: Strong written and verbal communication skills to communicate technical information clearly to a variety of stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and the public.
• Collaboration and team coordination: Works effectively with diverse teams, supporting engineers, and external stakeholders.
• Engineering Mathematics: Demonstrates sufficient mathematical proficiency to apply engineering equations accurately in traffic design and analysis.
• Technology and software use: Proficient in computer operations and associated engineering design software, including Microsoft Suite products (e.g., SharePoint, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). Ability to rapidly multitask between multiple software applications in emergency situations.
• Support Focused: Contribute to efficient daily operations by helping WSDOT staff and external partners, helping coordinate field activities, resolve routine operational issues, and ensure information and resources are delivered accurately and on time.
• Field Readiness and Safety Awareness: Able to travel to and work safely along highways and within active work zones, including navigating uneven terrain and confined spaces such as communication vaults.
• Licensing Requirement: Possession of a valid driver's license.
• 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:

• Traffic Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of traffic engineering principles, practices, and procedures, with the ability to apply those concepts to the planning, design, analysis, construction, or operation of transportation systems and facilities.
• Traffic Signal and Illumination Design & Construction Management: Demonstrated experience designing, reviewing, coordinating, or providing construction management support for traffic signal systems, highway illumination systems, or other transportation infrastructure projects.
• Traffic Control Device Design: Demonstrated knowledge of design principles, standards, and practices related to traffic control devices, including roadway signing, pavement markings, traffic signals, and illumination systems, and the ability to apply those principles to transportation projects.
• Engineering Software and Project Scheduling: Demonstrated experience utilizing computer-aided design (CAD) software, scheduling software, or similar engineering and project management tools to develop plans, monitor project activities, and support project delivery.
• Professional Engineering Development: Demonstrated commitment to professional engineering development through attainment of engineering certifications, licensure, or specialized credentials related to civil engineering, traffic engineering, or transportation engineering.
• Preferred Certifications and Credentials: Possession of a valid Engineer in Training (EIT) Certificate. Possession of a valid Professional Engineer (PE) License. Possession of a valid Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE) Certification.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.

• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.

• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County. An additional 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.

• This is a Transportation Engineer 3 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 3: $82, 857 - $111,409

• Transportation Engineer 2: $75,045 - $100,951

• Transportation Engineer 1: $68,014 - $91,400

• 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 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 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 3 #13485 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 applying civil engineering principles to transportation projects, designs, and analyses?

• I independently apply advanced civil engineering principles to develop, evaluate, and recommend solutions for complex transportation projects and technical issues.
• I independently apply civil engineering principles to transportation projects, designs, and analyses, exercising engineering judgment to solve routine to moderately complex issues.
• I have applied foundational civil engineering principles through coursework, internships, or entry-level engineering assignments under guidance.
• I have completed engineering-related coursework but have limited experience applying engineering principles to transportation projects.
• I have no experience applying civil engineering principles.

02

Please briefly describe your experience applying civil engineering principles to transportation projects, designs, and analyses. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

03

Which statement best describes your experience interpreting engineering standards, manuals, and guidance documents?

• I regularly interpret and apply engineering guidance such as the MUTCD, AASHTO Green Book, WSDOT Design Manual, or similar standards to develop projects, recommendations, and operational solutions.
• I have reviewed and applied engineering standards and guidance documents to support transportation project development and design decisions with occasional assistance.
• I have received training on engineering standards and have used them under supervision or during coursework.
• I have limited familiarity with engineering standards and guidance documents.
• I have no experience using engineering standards or guidance documents.

04

Which statement best describes your experience collecting, analyzing, and reporting technical data?

• I independently conduct complex analyses, interpret findings, prepare technical reports, and make recommendations that support engineering decisions and transportation projects.
• I independently collect and analyze technical data, prepare reports, and summarize findings to support engineering projects and operational decisions.
• I have collected data, performed basic analyses, and prepared reports under supervision or through academic projects.
• I have limited experience with technical data analysis or report writing.
• I have no experience with technical data analysis or report writing.

05

Please briefly describe your experience collecting, analyzing, and reporting technical data. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.

06

Which statement best describes your experience communicating technical information?

• I routinely communicate complex technical information to engineers, contractors, agency leadership, public officials, and members of the public and facilitate resolution of technical issues.
• I independently communicate technical information to a variety of stakeholders and adjust my communication style to ensure understanding.
• I communicate technical information in routine situations under supervision or as part of team projects.
• I have limited experience communicating technical information in a professional setting.
• I have no experience communicating technical information.

07

Which statement best describes your experience applying engineering mathematics?

• I routinely apply advanced engineering equations, formulas, and analytical methods to perform traffic engineering analyses, design work, and technical evaluations.
• I independently apply engineering equations and mathematical principles to complete transportation engineering assignments and analyses.
• I have applied engineering mathematics through coursework, internships, or entry-level assignments under guidance.
• I have completed mathematics coursework but have limited experience applying engineering calculations.
• I have no experience applying engineering mathematics.

08

Which statement best describes your experience using engineering software and computer applications?

• I routinely use multiple engineering and business software applications simultaneously, including CAD, engineering analysis tools, databases, and Microsoft Office products, to support transportation projects and operational needs.
• I independently use engineering software and Microsoft Office applications to develop designs, perform analyses, manage data, and support project delivery.
• . I have used engineering software and Microsoft Office products through coursework, internships, or entry-level assignments under supervision.
• I have limited experience using engineering software or Microsoft Office applications.
• I have no experience using engineering software.

09

Which statement best describes your experience working safely in field environments?

• I regularly work independently in active construction zones, along highways, and in potentially hazardous environments while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and procedures.
• I have experience working in field environments, including active roadways or construction sites, and consistently follow established safety requirements.
• I have participated in field activities under supervision and have received safety training related to field operations.
• I have limited field experience but understand the importance of workplace safety.
• I have no experience working in field environments.

10

Which statement best describes your leadership experience?

• I have supervised, led, or coached engineering or technical staff, including assigning work, evaluating performance, identifying training needs, mentoring employees, and addressing personnel issues.
• I have served as a project lead, technical lead, or mentor, providing guidance and coordinating the work of others but without formal supervisory responsibilities.
• I have informally assisted coworkers, interns, or team members by sharing knowledge and providing direction on assignments.
• I have completed leadership training but have limited practical leadership experience.
• I have no leadership experience.

11

Do have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.

• Yes
• No

12

Please select the certifications/ licenses you have:

• Possession of a valid Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate in the United States
• Professional Civil Engineering License.
• Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE) certification.
• None of the above

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
• "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