Transportation Engineer 3

Transportation Engineer 3

Salary

$80,496.00 - $108,228.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County - Spokane, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-ER-61362

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Eastern Region

Opening Date

07/08/2026

Closing Date

7/29/2026 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 3 to lead the delivery of highway design and construction projects by managing project scope, schedule, budget, and quality while supervising engineering and technical staff. In this role, you will mentor team members, support their professional development, and help ensure successful project delivery. This position plays a key role in advancing WSDOTs mission by fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement while upholding the agencys vision, values, and goals. Safety is a top priority, and you will lead and participate in the development of Pre-Activity Safety Plans, Worksite Safety Reviews, and ongoing safety discussions to promote safe project delivery for employees, contractors, and the traveling public.

What to Expect

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

• Manage the scope, schedule, budget, risks, and delivery of multiple or major highway design and construction projects to support successful project outcomes.
• Direct construction inspection, surveying, field documentation, and contract administration activities while providing technical guidance and resolving project issues.
• Coordinate with contractors, property owners, and project stakeholders to interpret plans and specifications, address concerns, and facilitate project delivery.
• Monitor project costs, quantities, workforce, and contract changes by preparing change orders, reviewing payment estimates, and implementing risk management strategies.
• Lead weekly Owners Meetings, provide regular project status reporting, and evaluate field conditions to support informed decision-making.
• Oversee the development of design plans, PS&E packages, right-of-way plans, access control, illumination, signalization, signing, and related engineering documentation.
• Prepare technical reports, correspondence, and project documentation while supporting public hearings and participating in community engagement activities.
• Supervise engineering staff by assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, resolving personnel issues, mentoring employees, and promoting continuous process improvement.

Qualifications

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

• Transportation Engineering Expertise: Demonstrated ability to apply advanced transportation engineering principles, design standards, and construction practices to plan, design, and deliver complex highway projects.
• Project Management: Experience leading project teams and managing project scope, schedule, and budget for transportation projects, ensuring timely delivery, quality outcomes, and compliance with applicable standards and requirements.
• Leadership and Team Collaboration: Demonstrated success working effectively with engineering and technical staff by providing direction, mentoring, and support; contributing to team goals; and fostering a collaborative and accountable work environment.
• Safety and Risk Management: Ability to implement safety plans, participate in or lead work-site safety reviews, identify and communicate hazards, and proactively manage project risks to protect employees, contractors, and the traveling public.
• Communication and Coordination: Proven skill in preparing and reviewing project documentation, reports, and correspondence, and coordinating effectively with contractors, inspectors, project managers, stakeholders, and the public in both written and verbal settings.
• Problem Solving and Decision Making: Ability to identify technical and project-related challenges, analyze information, develop practical solutions, and make sound decisions that support project quality, efficiency, and compliance.
• Commitment to Equity and Respectful Workplace Culture: Demonstrated experience working in a manner that supports a respectful, inclusive, and equitable workplace, including effective engagement with individuals from diverse backgrounds and promotion of a positive team environment.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

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

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

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Engineering Fundamentals: Demonstrated application of foundational engineering principles consistent with Engineer-in-Training (EIT) level knowledge in transportation or civil engineering contexts.
• Formal Engineering Education: Education in civil engineering, structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, traffic or transportation engineering, or a closely related field that has provided the knowledge base necessary to perform transportation design, analysis, and construction management functions.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
• 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.
• 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.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at yasmin.munoz@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-ER-61362 in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Select the option that best describes your experience applying transportation engineering principles to highway or transportation projects.

• Advanced - Independently applies advanced transportation engineering principles, design standards, and construction practices to plan, design, and deliver complex highway or transportation projects.
• Intermediate - Applies transportation engineering principles to support project design, construction, or delivery with occasional guidance on complex issues.
• Basic - Limited experience applying transportation engineering principles through coursework, internships, or entry-level engineering work.
• None of the above

02

Briefly describe your experience applying transportation engineering principles, design standards, and construction practices to transportation projects. Include the types of projects you supported and your role. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

03

Select the option that best describes your experience managing transportation engineering projects.

• Advanced - Independently leads transportation engineering projects, managing project scope, schedule, budget, quality, and compliance with applicable standards and requirements.
• Intermediate - Coordinates or supports project management activities, including scheduling, budget tracking, task coordination, or project delivery.
• Basic - Limited experience supporting engineering project activities.
• None of the above

04

Briefly describe your experience managing or supporting transportation engineering projects, including your responsibilities related to project scope, schedule, budget, quality, or coordination. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

05

Select the option that best describes your experience leading or mentoring engineering or technical staff.

• Advanced - Provides leadership, direction, mentoring, and technical guidance to engineering or technical staff while fostering collaboration, accountability, and successful project delivery.
• Intermediate - Leads project teams or provides guidance and technical support to coworkers as part of project assignments.
• Basic - Limited experience leading or mentoring others.
• None of the above

06

Briefly describe your experience leading, mentoring, or supporting engineering or technical staff, including how you contributed to team success or project delivery. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

07

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

• Yes
• No

08

Are you able to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain?

• Yes
• No

09

Are you able to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds?

• Yes
• No

10

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)

11

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